Onward New River Valley recently traveled to the Washington, D.C. area to exhibit at the 2025 SelectUSA Investment Summit , the premier event dedicated to promoting foreign direct investment (FDI) in the United States. Hosted by the U.S. Department of Commerce, the summit brings together companies from around the globe with economic development organizations from across the country to foster connections and drive investment.
According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, the SelectUSA Investment Summit has generated over $135 billion in new investment projects since its inception, supporting more than 105,000 jobs across the United States and its territories. The 2025 summit welcomed over 5,000 participants, including representatives from 56 U.S. states and territories and more than 2,500 business investors from 96 international markets.
Samantha Livesay, Senior Director of Business Engagement at Onward NRV, and Michael Solomon, Economic Development Director for Pulaski County, attended the summit on behalf of Virginia’s New River Valley. They engaged with a wide range of international businesses and industry leaders, building connections that will support future investment opportunities in the region.
The SelectUSA Investment Summit continues to be a valuable platform for Onward NRV to position the NRV on a global stage and promote its unique advantages as a business destination. Follow-up conversations are already underway as Onward works to support potential investors and demonstrate why the NRV is a natural fit for their operations.
Learn more about SelectUSA 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.