Leaders Discuss Impact of COVID-19 on NRV Tech Sector

Onward NRV hosted the organization’s bi-annual Tech Leaders’ Summit with industry leaders from Virginia’s New River Valley on November 12, 2020. This was the first Tech Leaders’ Summit that was held virtually.

Onward NRV hosts Tech Leaders’ Summits twice a year. The summits are part of the organization’s five-year strategy to promote economic development in the NRV. The goal of the summits is to encourage collaboration around common challenges and opportunities faced by industry leaders to support the continued growth of the tech sector in Virginia’s New River Valley.

During the virtual summit, attendees:

• Saw the results of Onward NRV’s recent digital marketing campaign that promoted the 1,000+ new tech jobs announced in the New River Valley over the past two years.
• Learned about the findings of Onward NRV’s Tech Industry Competitiveness Survey from Scott Tate, Associate Director of Virginia Tech’s Office of Economic Development. The goal of the survey was to help Onward NRV better understand how local tech companies are currently operating and adapting in the wake of COVID-19.
• Participated in a group discussion about business development in a remote environment and how the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way tech companies in the NRV do business. The discussion was facilitated by Jim Woods, Director of Marketing at Qualtrax.

Read more about previous Tech Leaders’ Summits here.

Learn more about the growing information technology industry in Virginia’s New River Valley here.

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.