Spring Investor Event Explores the Outdoor Economy in the NRV

Onward New River Valley hosted the organization’s Spring Investor Luncheon on Thursday, March 10th at Mountain Lake Lodge, located in beautiful Giles County. Onward NRV investors enjoyed the pristine mountain setting while networking and catching up on the latest news from the Onward team. The event was sponsored by Lionberger Construction.

Scott Blankenship, Chairman of the Onward NRV Board of Directors, welcomed elected officials, board members, and investors to the event. Sam Lionberger of Lionberger Construction spoke briefly about the company’s exciting upcoming projects.

Executive Director, Katie Boswell updated the investors on recent prospect activity, the upcoming 2022 NRV Experience cohort, and the organization’s progress on the Onward 2023 five-year strategic plan initiatives.

The topic of the 2022 Spring Investor Luncheon was “Capitalizing on the Thriving Outdoor Economy in the NRV“. Onward NRV proudly welcomed four leaders from regional organizations who are leading the way in promoting the NRV’s outdoor economy.

Cora Gnegy, Tourism Marketing Director: Giles County

Beth Lohman, President: Friends of the Huckleberry, Inc.

Kim Kirkbride, Assistant Director: New River Valley Land Trust

Laura Walters, Board Member: Friends of Clator Lake

Speakers graciously briefed the event attendees on the myriad of ways that they and their organizations are driving investment, creating jobs, promoting innovation, and protecting our natural assets.

For many regions and communities, outdoor recreation is a cornerstone of economic activity. There is no better example of this than in the NRV. Onward NRV proudly supports and promotes the region’s outdoor amenities with the goal of positively contributing to its impact on our local economy.

A sincere thank you to Lionberger Construction for sponsoring the event, and the 100+ investors and elected officials who support Onward NRV, its vision, and its mission.

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.