Onward 2028 Strategic Plan Goal 1: Talent

Onward NRV is eager to contribute to the economic growth of Virginia’s New River Valley through the organization’s new five-year economic development strategy, Onward 2028. Onward is grateful for the opportunity to work with local economic development organizations, the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) , and other stakeholders to see their new strategic plan become a reality.

The Onward 2028 strategic plan, which will be the roadmap for Onward NRV’s work over the next five years, targets (1) Talent, (2) Business, (3) Marketing and (4) Regionalism. These goals will help Virginia’s New River Valley to stimulate new jobs and investment as well as increasing talent retention and economic growth in the region.

The first goal of Onward NRV’s strategic plan is to attract and retain talent to support regional growth of their four targeted industries: Advanced Manufacturing, Food Processing & Agribusiness, Information Technology, and Uncrewed Systems.

Onward NRV will work toward retaining talent in the following ways:

• Retaining graduates & program completers
• Promoting in-demand careers
• Encouraging quality-of-life enhancements
• Promoting best practice program scaling
• Highlighting the impact of housing & childcare

For more information about Onward NRV’s 5-year strategy and their goals visit here.

To join the movement of Onward NRV, contact Director of Business Engagement Samantha Livesay.

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.