Onward NRV Presents 2023 Regional Impact Awards

Onward New River Valley presented the 2023 Regional Impact Awards to three companies at the organization’s Annual Dinner on September 14, 2023. The Regional Impact Awards are presented annually and celebrate companies who are making an impact in Virginia’s New River Valley by bringing new jobs and investment to the region.

The award recipients were honored for their projects or expansions in the NRV over the past year. These three announcements will bring a total of 85 new jobs and $48.3 million in new capital investment to the region.

This year’s award winners are:

• SWVA Biochar: Expansion announced in December 2022 resulting in 15 new jobs and $2.6 million in new capital investment in Floyd County


Linda Millsaps (left) and Tabitha Hodge (center) of Floyd County accept the 2023 Regional Impact Award on behalf of SWVA BioChar. They are pictured with Onward NRV Board Chair Mark Woolwine (right).

• Hollingsworth & Vose: Expansion announced in January 2023 resulting in 25 new jobs and $40.2 million in new capital investment in Floyd County


Vince Hatcher of Hollingworth & Vose (left) accepts the 2023 Regional Impact Award. He is pictured with Onward NRV Board Chair Mark Woolwine (right).

• Grucci: Project announced in June 2023 resulting in 45 new jobs and $5.6 million in new capital investment in Pulaski County


Scott Raso of Grucci (left) accepts the 2023 Regional Impact Award. He is pictured with Onward NRV Board Chair Mark Woolwine (right).

Onward New River Valley congratulates this year’s Regional Impact Award winners and celebrates their commitment to making Virginia’s New River Valley a better place to live, work, and do business.

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.