Onward NRV Hosts Fall Leaders’ Summits

Onward NRV hosted their semiannual Tech/IT and Manufacturing Leaders’ Summits on October 15th. These summits are designed to bring together leaders from across the region to foster collaboration and give them a platform to define common challenges while presenting opportunities and resources to support the continued growth of industry in the NRV.

On the morning of October 15th, technology leaders gathered at the Hyatt Place Blacksburg/University to hear from John McIlwaine and Jeff Wynn at New River Computing who spoke on best practices for selling your business. Leadership Coach Katie Beach followed their presentation with actionable items to challenge leaders to grow and empower them to allow space for change.

Later that afternoon, manufacturing leaders met at Oransi in Radford to learn about Virginia’s Additive Manufacturing and Advanced Materials Tech Hub (AM2). AM2 is an industry-led consortium of 50+ partners dedicated to growing and accelerating additive manufacturing in the New River Valley and Southern Virginia regions. Oransi CEO Peter Mann then spoke about the qualities and benefits of the New River Valley that have positioned the NRV for success. Participants were later taken on a guided tour of the Oransi facility where they were able to ask practical, hands-on manufacturing questions. Networking at Sharkey’s in Radford followed the summit, where attendees were able to further connect and share ideas.

These summits are free to attend, courtesy of Onward NRV and their investors. The next Leaders’ Summits will be held on April 15, 2025.

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.