Onward NRV Partners with VEDP to Host Media Tour

New River Valley, VA – Onward New River Valley partnered with Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) this fall to host a media tour showcasing the technology assets in the region.

Five journalists from across the United States participated in a three day media tour that ended in the New River Valley. Onward NRV coordinated several locations in the NRV to showcase some of the many resources information technology companies benefit from by being located here. The first two stops included 1901 Group and Qualtrax, two of the 80 IT companies that contribute to the success and culture of tech professionals in the New River Valley. Next, we partnered with Virginia Tech’s Institute for Creativity, Arts, and Technology (ICAT). At ICAT, the journalists were able to see where art and technology intersect and how the university strives to support that innovation. The last stop in our region was at Radford University’s Applied Research in Technology and Information Science (ARTIS) Lab. The ARTIS Lab provides the opportunity for students to gain hands on experience working with faculty and industry partners to solve real life problems such as prototyping and evaluating emerging technologies.

NRV features from initial media coverage from the tour includes:

Inside Blacksburg, Virginia-based Qualtrax’s 26-year transformation as a compliance software startup

How can tech companies boost racial diversity?

Amazon’s HQ2 arrival touches old Virginia coal mining country

Wind turbine blades bend under heavy winds in UVA prototype

Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.