Onward NRV’s Spring Investor Reception Focuses on Talent-Driven Economic Development

Onward NRV hosted investors at the University Club of Virginia Tech in Lane Stadium on Thursday, March 9th for the organization’s Spring Investor Reception. The focus of the event was talent-driven economic development. Nearly 100 investors and community leaders attended the event.

Executive Director Katie Boswell began by greeting and thanking elected officials, board members, and investors. She then turned the microphone over to Jim Cowan of CowanPerry PC, the event’s sponsor. Cowan spoke about the services that CowanPerry PC can provide to their clients as a boutique law firm. Boswell then gave attendees an update on Onward NRV’s work over the past three months. She also promoted the 2023 cohort of the NRV Experience internship program and encouraged investors to enroll their summer interns.

After the Onward NRV update, Boswell introduced the evening’s guest speaker, Dr. John Provo of the Virginia Tech Center for Economic and Community Engagement. Provo provided the attendees with thought provoking data around talent retention in Virginia’s New River Valley and spoke about current and future programs designed to attract and retain talent.

Onward NRV would like to thank CowanPerry PC for sponsoring the Spring Investor Reception and the 110+ investors who support Onward’s NRV mission to bring world-class jobs, investment, and talent to Virginia’s New River Valley.

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.