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TECHnista, LLC to Establish National Training Center in Pittsylvania County

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TECHnista, LLC to Establish National Training Center in Pittsylvania County

TECHnista, LLC to Establish National Training Center in Pittsylvania County

Education consulting company will invest $1.5 million and create 15 new jobs to support Department of Defense contract

Governor Glenn Youngkin today announced that TECHnista, LLC, an education consulting company specializing in curriculum development for K-12 programs in defense and advanced manufacturing industries, will invest $1,559,646 to establish its National Training and Technology Center in Pittsylvania County. The project will create 15 new jobs and support the implementation of a five-year federal contract with the U.S. Department of Defense’s office of Innovation Capability and Modernization. Virginia successfully competed with North Carolina for the project.

“TECHnista’s training center in Pittsylvania County is a major victory for Southern Virginia and the Commonwealth at large,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “Virginia offers the location and world-class talent to catalyze growth for the company and develop the talent of the future for the advanced manufacturing and defense industries.”

“Virginia’s advantages for the advanced manufacturing industry are a major reason why TECHnista decided to locate in Pittsylvania County,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Caren Merrick. “This facility illustrates why the Danville area is such a strong location for manufacturers.”

“Our mission at TECHnista goes beyond building a successful business—we are committed to innovating K-12 education and strengthening local and national manufacturing workforce pipelines,” said TECHnista Founder and CEO Kelsey Robertson. “We are excited to bring our K-12 manufacturing education solution to fruition in Pittsylvania County. We feel confident that this region’s commitment to growing small businesses will play a key role in our success. We are deeply honored to have been offered support from Pittsylvania County, the Commonwealth of Virginia, and Governor Youngkin. This award will serve as a catalyst to inspire the next generation of talent and create sustainable, high-quality jobs that will drive the region’s future growth.”

“Pittsylvania County continues to diversify its business community with the addition of TECHnista to the Ringgold East Industrial Park,” said chairman of the Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors Darrell Dalton. “A woman-owned small business that already has a stake in the future of our county, TECHnista not only brings added revenue and high-paying jobs to the county, but more importantly, it gives our students the tools and knowledge they need to acquire skills demanded in tomorrow’s workplace. TECHnista provides our children and grandchildren another opportunity to remain local while obtaining a quality education and a path toward sustainable employment right here in Southern Virginia. We are thrilled to be part of TECHnista’s continued growth and future success.”

“TECHnista is a wonderful addition to the Dan River District, and I am pleased that they have decided to locate in the Ringgold East Industrial Park,” said supervisor of Dan River District Eddie Hite. “The benefits of TECHnista are generational, as it will provide highly skilled, high paying jobs today as well as create products and services that align with the region’s emphasis on exposing our youth to future careers and job opportunities in the manufacturing sector. Already, TECHnista has developed the Advanced Manufacturing Academy program in Pittsylvania County and I’m sure this expansion will bring more quality educational programs to the region. I am also excited that TECHnista will provide added revenue to assist Pittsylvania County with offering the services and programs our residents need and want.”

“The Industrial Development Authority is delighted that Pittsylvania County and the Commonwealth have joined together to offer this unique business the incentives it needs to expand and grow,” said chair of the Pittsylvania County Industrial Development Authority Dr. Joey Faucette. “TECHnista brings new employment opportunities as well as a wealth of knowledge and expertise that benefits our youngest residents by providing a bridge between technology and K-12 education. At the same time, TECHnista’s expansion is yet another indication that economic growth and innovation remains robust in this region, and we are excited that they have decided to stay and grow in their home county.”

“TECHnista’s decision to establish its National Training and Technology Center in Pittsylvania County is a game-changer for our region,” said Senator Tammy Mulchi. “This $1.5 million investment will boost Southside’s economy while supporting a crucial initiative to develop the next generation of defense manufacturing talent.”

“We are very happy that TECHnista, LLC has chosen our region for its National Training and Technology Center,” said Delegate Danny Marshall. “This is a great match, since the Dan River region has already placed an emphasis on advanced manufacturing training at the college and high school levels for several years and is currently offering training at the IALR for the U.S. Navy. Developing K-12 program materials that are specific to the defense and manufacturing industries aligns with the training resources here and can be mutually beneficial.”

“The southern Virginia region’s commitment to workforce development over the past decade has clearly borne fruit, with substantial progress in supporting the local school system, students, and employees,” said executive director of the Southern Virginia Regional Alliance Linda Green. “It’s only fitting that these efforts would give rise to an entrepreneurial venture with the potential to impact students nationwide. The owners of this venture have played a crucial role in expanding skills and fostering an appreciation for manufacturing, not just at the K-12 and community college levels, but also within the Department of Defense and its specialized training programs. It’s truly meaningful to witness them establish a business aimed at contributing to national workforce solutions, especially in the Danville/Pittsylvania area, where they’ve already set a high standard of excellence. This new venture is a testament to their dedication and the region’s growing reputation as a hub for workforce innovation.”

Founded in 2020, TECHnista, LLC is a privately-owned education consulting company that creates curriculum and content for K-12 programs specific to the defense and advanced manufacturing industries. This five-year middle school manufacturing initiative funded through ICAM’s Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment Program aims to attract students and impart to them the basic skills needed to succeed in advanced manufacturing careers. These skills will propel the next generation of defense manufacturing workers. The new facility in Pittsylvania County will serve as the NTTC for the Manufacturing and Engineering Education Reimagined for All program, creating curriculum, distributing consumable material, and providing support for MEERA regional centers across the United States. By 2029, the programs produced at the NTTC are expected to assist in training 110,000 students nationally per year.

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Pittsylvania County and the Southern Virginia Regional Alliance to secure the project for Virginia. In addition to DoD’s IBAS Program funding, Governor Youngkin approved a $50,000 grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund to assist Pittsylvania County with the project. TECHnista is eligible to receive state benefits from the Virginia Enterprise Zone Program, administered by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development.

The company will lease-to-purchase a facility at 2311 Cane Creek Parkway, currently owned by the Pittsylvania County Industrial Development Authority, located in the Ringgold East Industrial Park.

Strategic Talent Pathways Starting in Middle School

Strategic Talent Pathways Starting in Middle School

The growing Great Opportunities in Technology and Engineering Careers (GO TEC®) program is significantly impacting Virginia middle school students, school divisions and economic development efforts. Several leaders recently highlighted that impact and discussed future growth as part of a panel discussion during the GO Virginia State Board Retreat hosted at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) Conference Center.

GO TEC is a talent pathway that provides Virginia middle schoolers with hands-on introductions to advanced manufacturing and technology careers. IALR serves as the fiscal agent and program lead for GO TEC, which is supported and guided by partners that include K12 school systems, higher education, industry and economic development.

Virginia’s initiative for growth and opportunity in each region, GO Virginia is an economic development initiative and one of the primary funders of GO TEC, having provided approximately $9 million in funding to date.

Ben Davenport, a member of the GO Virginia State Board and the IALR Board of Trustees, moderated the panel.

“GO TEC is one of the very best investments that GO Virginia has made,” he said.

Below are a few of the main ideas shared during the panel discussion by the following leaders:

  • Dr. Julie Brown, Vice President, Advanced Learning, IALR
  • Linda Green, Executive Director of the Southern Virginia Regional Alliance and IALR’s Vice President of Economic Development
  • Dr. Mark Jones, Superintendent, Pittsylvania County Schools

A Talent Pathway

GO TEC introduces Virginia middle school students to emerging STEM-focused career fields through hands-on learning. Some modules include manufacturing engineering, automation & robotics, welding, precision machining and IT coding & networking.

GO TEC started as a pilot program in Danville Public Schools and Pittsylvania County Schools in 2018-2019.

“GO TEC has allowed us to build down and build up to create interest. It’s integrated learning at its best for middle-school students.” – Dr. Mark Jones, Superintendent, Pittsylvania County Schools

Economic Impact

The program has an impact on more than just students and school divisions.

As one of the economic development leaders for Southern Virginia, Green shared that she always takes business prospects into GO TEC classrooms, where the students’ enthusiasm and growing skillsets make a strong impression.

“The return on investment has been phenomenal for this region and the whole Commonwealth of Virginia,” Green said.

Green shared that workforce development has become a differentiator for Southern Virginia economic developers. GO TEC has tangibly demonstrated the area’s commitment to meeting industry’s workforce needs by developing a sustainable pipeline of talent earlier to allow more opportunity for expanded skill development and career readiness.

Regional Expansion

Since the program launched in just a few schools in 2018-2019, the curriculum and program have continued to expand across the Commonwealth. As a result of GO Virginia investments, strategic partnerships and many success stories, 9,000+ students in 52 middle schools across Virginia, ranging from Abingdon to Chesapeake, will experience the GO TEC curriculum annually starting in the 2023-2024 school year.

“GO TEC gets students excited about these career opportunities. This is good for young people. This is good for Virginia.” – Dr. Julie Brown, Vice President, Advanced Learning, IALR

Brown said there are two simple goals moving forward: (1) to get GO TEC in every Virginia middle school and (2) to implement more impactful career education in the 9th and 10th grades – a current gap across the Commonwealth.

Showcasing the Program

Tours of the GO TEC Teacher Training Lab at IALR and the GO TEC Mobile lab were offered as part of the GO Virginia State Board Retreat. The full team, led by Program Director Angela Rigney, was on site to demonstrate the equipment, answer questions and connect with statewide leaders.

Three additional training labs are housed across the commonwealth with in-region coordinating entities: Endless Opportunity, the Commonwealth Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Old Dominion University Research Foundation.

School divisions, industry partners and economic development organizations that are interested in partnering with GO TEC should contact Angela Rigney, GO TEC Director.

Third Annual Southern Virginia Regional Housing Summit

Third Annual Southern Virginia Regional Housing Summit

The City of Danville will host the third annual Southern Virginia Regional Housing Summit, on October 24, at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research Conference Center, 150 Slayton Avenue, Danville, from 8:30am – 3:30pm.

The summit will aim to spark new residential housing in the region, including Halifax, Henry, Patrick and Pittsylvania County and Danville and Martinsville city. Developers, builders, contractors, home renovators, financial institution representatives, architects, and community advocates are encouraged to attend.

This full-day event will feature presentations on local, state, and federal funding options, a panel showcasing examples of housing projects currently underway, and an exhibit hall. In addition, participating localities will provide information about single- and multi-family development opportunities throughout the Southern Virginia region.

“The Southern Virginia Regional Housing Summit has introduced new residential development in Danville, which is helping the City address its housing demand,” said Susan McCulloch, City of Danville, Division Director of Housing and Development. “We are excited to work with our regional partners to share our stories and opportunities for an exciting day of collaboration.”

“Our area has been blessed with expanding job opportunities from both new and existing businesses. However, the increased level of jobs and workers has created a shortage of workforce housing. Developers have stepped up and are building new housing, but we need more,” stated Delegate Danny Marshall. “The Southern Virginia Regional Housing Summit offers information and collaboration opportunities to help us move forward. I serve on the Tobacco Commission and we have a new housing incentive program to share this year: Economic Development Workforce Housing Incentive Pilot Program – Virginia Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission (revitalizeva.org).”

Greta Harris, Better Housing Coalition President and CEO, will be this year’s keynote speaker. Harris leads Richmond, VA’s largest nonprofit development corporation, and is a thought-leader in the corporate fields of real estate development, finance, and management. Harris’s dedication to transforming communities through affordable, high-quality housing has been a driving force throughout decades of service.

“As communities compete for business and talent investments, those who integrate housing into their broader development strategies are finding greater success in yielding inclusive economic growth and overall quality of life improvements,” said Harris.

Anna Mitchell, Senior Program Manager of the International City/County Management Association, and Ryan Price, Chief Economist for Virginia Association of Realtors, will also deliver presentations.

“The City of Danville’s Southern Virginia Regional Housing Summit has been a pivotal event for three consecutive years, addressing the region’s housing needs and driving significant growth and development,” said Southern Virginia Regional Alliance Executive Director, Linda Green. “In response to rising housing costs and a shortage of affordable housing across income levels, the summit has fostered a collaborative approach that encompasses infrastructure development, and key partnerships with developers, contractors and financial institutions. This regional effort has created a foundation for longterm economic growth, ensuring the area can meet both current and future housing demands. The initiative highlights the power of regional collaboration in tackling widespread challenges, offering a sustainable model for economic development and community resilience through housing modernization.”

Last year’s event was supported by 31 sponsors, with over 200 community partners in attendance. The event highlighted housing needs, current projects, and successful developments, including:

  • Eight townhomes from the Monument Berryman Project have been developed, with a total of 34 townhomes and 60 market-rate apartments planned.
  • Located between American Legion Boulevard and East Franklin Turnpike, The View at Franklin will feature over 200 apartments, divided among ten buildings; the first five buildings are in development.
  • The T.B. Fitzgerald Apartments, formerly the historic Coin Ops building, was recently renovated into 22 apartments.

Sponsors to date include Virginia Housing, Dewberry, the Institute for Advanced Learning & Research, the Lester Group, PLDR Law, Dan River Region Realtors Association, Danville & Pittsylvania County Habitat for Humanity, Riverside Roof Truss, Danville Pittsylvania Chamber of Commerce, the Martinsville, Henry, Patrick County Association of Realtors, the Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission, the Harvest Foundation, Caesars Virginia, Danville Community College, Danville Neighborhood Development Corporation, LE&D Professionals, Longevity Home Solutions, Southside Investing, and the View at Franklin.

Registration closes October 15. 

Event Details and Registration 

City of Danville’s Housing Navigator tool 

RBW Sports & Classics to Establish New Facility in Virginia

RBW Sports & Classics to Establish New Facility in Virginia

U.K.-based company will produce its first left-hand drive sports cars for U.S. market in Danville-Pittsylvania County

Governor Glenn Youngkin today announced that RBW Sports & Classics, the United Kingdom’s only manufacturer of hand-built electric classic sports cars, will invest $8 million to establish a manufacturing facility at Cane Creek Centre, an industrial park jointly owned by the City of Danville and Pittsylvania County. The new facility will produce the company’s first left-hand drive RBW EV Roadster and GT models for the U.S. market. The project will create 144 new jobs.

“Entrepreneurial, innovative companies like RBW Sports & Classics are helping put Virginia on the map for cutting-edge industry and jobs,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “The talented workforce in the region is a perfect fit for RBW Sports & Classics’ plans. The company’s decision to invest in Virginia reflects the strength of our manufacturing sector, the skill of our workers, the quality of life in the Commonwealth, and the strength of our business climate.”

“This expansion is a testament to Virginia’s top-notch technology and manufacturing workforce and competitive business climate,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Caren Merrick. “We are proud to see RBW Sports & Classics add its name to the growing list of high-tech automotive companies in Virginia. Virginia is for innovators.”

“Over seven years, RBW (named after my children Rose, Becs, and Wesley) has established itself as a quality manufacturer of new, yet classic/vintage, electric cars and a designer of EV systems,” said Chief Executive Officer of RBW Sports & Classics Peter Swain. “Already selling in Europe, Asia, and even Bermuda, the new facility in Virginia supports RBW’s entry to the U.S. market. We are both excited and honoured to have been offered support from Virginia, and we look forward to making a positive, long-term contribution to the community.”

“Today’s announcement is a milestone moment for Danville and Pittsylvania County,” said Danville Mayor Alonzo Jones. “RBW Sports and Classics’ choice to establish its first U.S. manufacturing facility here highlights the strength of our workforce and the appeal of our region. This investment brings valuable new jobs to our community and introduces us to the exciting and evolving world of electric vehicle manufacturing. We are pleased to welcome RBW and look forward to the opportunities this partnership will create.”

“RBW’s decision to establish its first U.S. operation in Pittsylvania County is a significant addition to what our region has to offer,” said Senator Tammy Mulchi. “The international presence they bring is particularly exciting, and we’re honored that a global company like RBW has chosen Southside Virginia.”

“We are excited that RBW Sports and Classics has selected our region for manufacturing their first left-hand drive electric classic sports cars for the U.S. market,” said Delegate Danny Marshall. “They have put together a great blend of classic cars with modern technology. We appreciate the economic boost of 144 new jobs for the community. And, as a car enthusiast, I know there will be much excitement as these sports cars roll out of the manufacturing facility at Cane Creek.”

“Pittsylvania County continues to grow and expand as new businesses and industries establish their facilities here and we are delighted to now welcome RBW Sports & Classics to our community,” said Chairman of the Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors Darrell Dalton. “RBW will bring technology-focused jobs to this region and provide our young people with another opportunity to thrive within their home communities. We thank RBW for its decision to bring its innovative and unique product to Southside Virginia and we believe the company will be a great asset to the county and beyond.”

“RBW is a wonderful addition to everything that Pittsylvania County and the region has to offer, and the international flavor that it brings is especially exciting,” said Tunstall District Supervisor and Chairman of the Danville-Pittsylvania Regional Industrial Facilities Authority Vic Ingram. “It is encouraging when companies from all over the world want to establish a corporate relationship with Pittsylvania County and we are thrilled to welcome RBW to our community. We look forward to establishing a long and prosperous relationship with RBW and wish the company future success as it embarks on its new investment in Southside Virginia.”

“Southern Virginia is in the middle of the mobility corridor of the southeastern United States – centered between some of the greatest transportation and energy universities in the world and an excellent skilled workforce to ensure that RBW will excel in their first U.S. operation,” said Executive Director of the Southern Virginia Regional Alliance Linda Green. “They will love our region; our region and the nation will love their cars.”

“The Industrial Development Authority of Danville is thrilled that RBW Electric Cars has selected Danville-Pittsylvania County for their U.S. operations,” said Chairman of the Industrial Development Authority of Danville, Virginia T. Neal Morris. “This $8 million investment is a testimony to the region’s bright future, and we look forward to the exciting opportunities and new jobs RBW will bring to our local residents.”

RBW Sports & Classics Limited was founded in 2017 with the mission of creating and selling the first classic electric sports car. It delivered its first cars in the United Kingdom and internationally in 2022 and opened its first factory in the United Kingdom in 2023 registered as a new EV car manufacturer. While the company currently manufactures electric Roadster and GT models, its patented EV architecture and systems can be installed under other body shells such as the Ford Mustang, Austin Healey, Jaguar E-Type, and many more. For more information, visit www.rbwevcars.com.

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Pittsylvania County, the City of Danville, the Danville-Pittsylvania County Regional Industrial Development Authority, and the Southern Virginia Regional Alliance to secure the project for Virginia. Governor Youngkin approved a $500,000 grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund to assist Danville-Pittsylvania County with this project. Funding and services to support the company’s employee training activities will be provided through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program.

Linda Hutson Green Wins Inaugural WE Lead Award

Linda Hutson Green Wins Inaugural WE Lead Award

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) proudly announces that Linda Hutson Green, IALR’s Vice President of Economic Development and Executive Director of the Southern Virginia Regional Alliance, has been awarded the inaugural WE Lead Award from the Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce. The award was announced during the Chamber’s Annual Awards Banquet hosted at the IALR Conference Center.

The Chamber’s WE Lead program, which stands for Women Empowered, provides access to dynamic programs designed to develop leadership skills and build professional networks for women in business. This prestigious honor celebrates a transformative leader who has shown extraordinary dedication and service to Danville and Pittsylvania County.

“I am deeply honored to receive the inaugural WE Lead Award. This recognition reflects the hard work and dedication of the IALR team and our many partners. I appreciate the chance to work with the localities and want to recognize the accomplishments of Matt Rowe, Corrie Bobe, the City of Danville, Pittsylvania County, and the entire Southern Virginia Region. Together, we have made tremendous strides in driving economic transformation, and I am excited about the future and potential for our region.” – Linda Hutson Green, SVRA Exeucitive 

Green’s collaborative efforts with local economic development teams have led to the recruitment of 28 new companies to Southern Virginia and the expansion of 34 existing companies. These efforts have created more than 5,400 jobs and spurred just over $1.7 billion in capital investment across the region. Green currently serves as the 2024 President of the Virginia Economic Developers Association.

“The inaugural WE Lead (Women Empowered) Award was given to a female leader who is transforming our growing region. Green’s body of work and dedication to Danville and Pittsylvania County is unmatched and make her the perfect choice for this award.” – Anne Moore-Sparks, president and CEO of the Danville Pittsylvania Chamber of Commerce

Green is an integral part of Southern Virginia, bringing a wealth of experience that spans federal, state, and local levels, both in the public and private sectors. Since October 2016, Green has served as IALR’s Vice President of Economic Development as well as the Executive Director of the Southern Virginia Regional Alliance. In these roles, she leverages the resources of IALR to assist local economic developers in marketing the Southern Virginia region, providing recruitment and retention of industries to create and sustain jobs and ensure the economic vitality of the region. Appointed to the Commonwealth Transportation Board by Governor Youngkin in 2023, Green also serves on the Averett University Board of Trustees. In July 2023, she received the Women in Leadership Award from Virginia Business Magazine.

Green’s distinguished career includes roles as District Director for U.S. Congressman Robert Hurt, Director for Federal Funding and Entrepreneurship for the Center for Innovative Technology, President and CEO of the Dan River Business Development Center, and Quality Engineer for the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company. A Certified Quality Engineer, Linda holds a master’s in business administration from Duke University and is a graduate of Averett University and Danville Community College.

Circ – How IALR Supports Industry

Circ – How IALR Supports Industry

The average piece of clothing is worn between seven and 10 times before it is discarded.

Most of those clothing articles end up in the landfill, the incinerator or dumped somewhere around the world.

Less than 1% of textile waste from clothing is recycled back into clothing.

Most of these clothing articles are made from polycotton, a mixture of polyester and cotton. A Danville–based business, Circ is a circular fashion company that implements a unique technology to separate the polyester and cotton, allowing both materials to be recycled and used to create additional clothes later. (Previous efforts to separate these two fibers would result in the destruction of one material or the other.)

“The building blocks of clothing are natural resources like petroleum, cotton or metals. You can take those building blocks from clothing and turn them back into clothing – that’s what we do. It’s closed-loop garment recycling. But you also can take the building blocks from clothing and turn them back into something else. In the end, the building blocks are commodities that can be recycled many, many times.” – Dr. Iulian Bobe, Circ Co-Founder

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) has rented lab space and provided various analytical chemistry and research services to Circ throughout the company’s life cycle, epitomizing the mission of regional economic transformation and industry-driven programs, services and support.

“It’s just incredible to see a company grow and be a part of that growth. It’s also very rewarding and at the core of our mission of economic transformation.” – Dr. Scott Lowman, Vice President, Applied Research, IALR

The Company Story

In the mid 2010s, Circ’s initial focus was a technology that would extract sugars and oils from tobacco to produce biofuels. Funding from the Virginia Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission helped the company – then known as Tyton BioSciences – locate in Danville. The hydrothermal technology they developed for the separation process worked, but they saw potential in a different application that also had deep ties to Southern Virginia: textiles.

“We learned a lot about biomass and how to extract those molecules from tobacco. That technology helped us with textile recycling, the application we do today.” – Dr. Iulian Bobe, Circ Co-Founder.

Under the new company name of Circ, they are working to create a circular fashion industry where commodities and products are recycled and reused instead of going straight to the landfill after one use. Circ is facing this issue from multiple fronts by creating new recycled yarn for other brands to use and establishing themselves as their own functional brand.

Today, the company operates out of the Dan River Business Development Center and is focused on scaling operations. Circ’s unique mission and technology recently received international attention as the company became a finalist for the Earthshot Prize – a program founded by Prince William that rewards companies focused on sustainable technology and solutions.

“The story of Circ is an amazing entrepreneurial success story. With an innovative technological advancement, the company has transformed from a startup in the tobacco repurposing sector to an internationally recognized circular textile/fashion company. The story of Circ is a great example of how IALR can play a role in supporting companies throughout their life cycle with a variety of services including office and research lab space.” – Telly Tucker, IALR President

IALR Support

The Applied Research team at IALR provides services and testing and collaborates with large and small companies in Southern Virginia, around the country, and even around the world. IALR has more than 60 active nondisclosure agreements with companies worldwide.

Since Circ arrived in Danville, IALR has provided a variety of services and support.

“We basically hired IALR for characterization of the starting materials,” Dr. Bobe said.

In addition to working with IALR’s advanced materials experts, over the years, Circ has contracted analytical chemistry services and even used office and lab space on the campus until 2023.

Since Circ arrived in Danville, IALR has provided a variety of support, including advanced materials and analytical chemistry testing and characterization services.

“In economic development, our job is to compile and market all the ways that a company would benefit from doing business in our area. When recruiting new companies to Southern Virginia, IALR’s ability to provide a variety of support, ranging from testing and analytical services to temporary space to collaboration opportunities, is a major selling point.” – Linda Green, Southern Virginia Regional Alliance Executive Director, IALR Vice President of Economic Development

Chamber of Commerce 2024 Annual Meeting

Chamber of Commerce 2024 Annual Meeting

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Join us at the 2024 Annual Membership Meeting on Feb 1 from 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research

Admission Info:
$40 for Members
$45 for Perspective Members
$300 for Corporate Tables (Seats 8)

At the meeting, discover the Chamber’s achievements, plans for the upcoming year, and insights into the Growth of the Region with a Focus on Foreign Domestic Trade from speakers Linda Green and Todd Haymore!

Keynote Speakers:

Todd Haymore: Managing Director of Global Economic Development, Commerce, and Government Relations at Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP, Former Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade, Former Virginia Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry.

Linda Green: Vice President of Economic Development at the Institute of Advanced Learning and Research, Executive Director of the Southern Virginia Regional Alliance.

Meet your 2024 Board of Directors and Officers, recognize the outgoing Chair and Board Members, and get updates on the Chamber’s direction, programs, and the 2023-2026 Strategic Plan shaped by our membership.
Enjoy a hot breakfast buffet! Registration is Required!

Don’t miss this opportunity! Mark your calendars and secure your spot now. Let’s make 2024 a year of growth and collaboration!

Register

IALR January 2024 Newsletter

IALR January 2024 Newsletter

READ THE FULL NEWSLETTER

The January 20224 edition of IALR at a Glance is jam-packed with exciting news and updates! Learn more about…

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VEDA President Linda Green Outlines 2024 Priorities

VEDA President Linda Green Outlines 2024 Priorities

Welcoming new lawmakers, strengthening professional development opportunities among priorities for newly elected VEDA President

Linda Green, Executive Director of Southern Virginia Regional Alliance and the newly elected President of Virginia Economic Developers Association (VEDA), looks forward to a new year when the nonprofit membership organization will focus on growing its professional development opportunities, forming successful business relationships with new lawmakers and continuing to champion the Commonwealth as a jewel for site development and expansion.

VEDA is the voice in Virginia for shaping economic development public policy and a primary source of strong and effective education and networking for economic development professionals.

Green will lead the membership in Exploring the Intersection of Community and Economic Development, its mantra for 2024.

“Economic development is constantly evolving, but not in a vacuum,” said Green, named the organization’s president at its 2023 Winter Membership Meeting in Richmond. “It depends on the strong coordination with the professionals around us. Those intersections — whether they be in workforce and education, transportation infrastructure, childcare, housing — impact how we move forward in economic development. This coming year they are critically important after coming out of COVID and seeing the workforce challenges businesses had. Working in collaboration with community development partners is critically important for all of us.”

Over recent years, VEDA launched Shared Interests Groups (SIGs), which formalize peer-to-peer networking around the following subject areas: Business Retention and Expansion, Diversity and Inclusion, Downtown Development, Rural and Workforce. Membership is robust in each of the SIGs.

Another priority for VEDA, Green said, will be forming professional connections with the new leadership in Virginia’s General Assembly, which saw unprecedented turnover in both chambers following the November election.

“We find ourselves with a lot of new legislators and we need to make sure we are resources to them as professionals in the economic development field. We must learn what their constituents and them foresee as needs for future economic development projects,” Green said. “That interface and advocacy for the importance of economic development to raising the gross domestic product in Virginia are an important mission for all of us.”

The Commonwealth remains a national leader in site development, boosted by an influx of $90 million in Virginia Business Ready Sites Program development grants to develop 21 sites across Virginia.

“All of our members will continue to be advocates for marketing the Commonwealth,” Green said. “Also, as new economic developers come on, we will continue to embrace them and make them part of our organization.”

Green has been Executive Director of Southern Virginia Regional Alliance since 2016, collaborating with her VEDA peers to recruit 28 new companies to Southern Virginia and assist the expansion of 31 existing companies. The Vice President of Economic Development at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research, Green was honored earlier this summer as one of the winners of the Virginia Business Women in Leadership Awards. She holds a Master of Business Administration from Duke University and is a graduate of Averett University and Danville Community College.

Green previously served as VEDA’s Vice President and Secretary and chaired and co-chaired its Membership Committee.

VEDA is a member-based professional association committed to providing training and development; networking opportunities; and serving as the voice of the economic development community, creating economic opportunity and prosperity for the Commonwealth of Virginia. VEDA’s members is comprised of more than 575 economic development professionals and related industry professionals from across the Commonwealth of Virginia. For more information about VEDA visit the website at www.GoVEDA.org.

Article courtesy of the Virginia Economic Development Partnership

Inside IALR Podcast: Economic Development – Transforming a Region

Inside IALR Podcast: Economic Development – Transforming a Region

“We always say we’re accessible, we’re affordable and we’re skilled.”— Linda Green, Vice President, Economic Development 

These are some of the main selling points that IALR’s Vice President of Economic Development Linda Green and her team and partner organizations use when recruiting new companies to locate in Southern Virginia.

Listen to the newest episode of IALR’s biweekly podcast, “Inside IALR,” for an engaging snapshot of economic development in Southern Virginia. What is economic development, and why does it matter for our region? Listen wherever you get podcasts to find out.

Listen on IALR’s Site 

Listen on Spotify

Listen on Apple Podcasts

In this episode, Linda defines economic development, emphasizing that it is not a simple, short-term or one-size-fits-all approach. Linda shares how her team works to recruit companies and promote growth for existing industries, highlights the selling points they make to companies, and explains what economic development looks like in Southern Virginia. 

 

Linda Green of IALR Wins Women in Leadership Award

Linda Green of IALR Wins Women in Leadership Award

Linda Green, Vice President of Economic Development at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR), joins 36 other executives as one of the winners of this year’s Virginia Business Women in Leadership Awards.  

Green has served in her current role as well as the Executive Director of the Southern Virginia Regional Alliance (SVRA) since 2016. As Virginia Business states, since that time, she has “worked in collaboration with economic developers to recruit 28 new companies to Southern Virginia and assist the expansion of 31 existing companies.” Virginia Business goes on to share that “Green says these efforts have created more than 5,300 jobs and spurred about $1.5 billion in capital investment across the region.”

“We are extremely fortunate to benefit from the keen economic development expertise of one of the state’s leading professionals in this area,” said Telly Tucker, President, IALR. “Linda’s love for Southern Virginia and her tireless efforts to contribute toward the growth and transformation of the region are evident and well respected by local, regional and state stakeholders across multiple industries and span both the public and private sectors.” 

Prior to her role at IALR and SVRA, Green worked as District Director for U.S. Congressman Robert Hurt and as Director for Federal Funding and Entrepreneurship for the Center for Innovative Technology, where she also served terms as Director of Manufacturing and Regional Technology Transfer. She also served as the President and CEO of the Dan River Business Development Center and worked as a Quality Engineer for Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company. A Certified Quality Engineer, Linda holds a Master of Business Administration from Duke University and is a graduate of Averett University and Danville Community College. 

“I am thrilled to be recognized for this esteemed award and appreciate Virginia Business’ commitment to honor and support the leading role that women play in the many businesses and industries across our Commonwealth,” said Green. “I also acknowledge the importance of working with a collaborative team of professionals who welcome and support female employees and cohorts — helping one another succeed is a blessing.”  

Virginia Business editors selected awardees from more than 320 nominations submitted by readers. According to the media outlet, “editorial staff considered factors such as overall professional accomplishments, civic engagement, mentoring and breaking glass ceilings.”   

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research serves Virginia as a regional catalyst for economic transformation with applied research, advanced learning, manufacturing advancement, conference center services and economic development efforts. IALR’s major footprint focuses within Southern Virginia, including the counties of Patrick, Henry, Franklin, Pittsylvania, Halifax and Mecklenburg along with the cities of Martinsville and Danville. 

SOVA Task Force Offers Workforce Solutions

SOVA Task Force Offers Workforce Solutions

The SOVA Task Force offered a Workforce Solutions weekly webinar series in May as an extension of the Bridge to Recovery Grant provided by GO Virginia Region 3. The series provided employers with resources and best practices regarding today’s workforce.

“Amid all the pressures facing our businesses in the wake of COVID, solutions for workforce-related issues are repeatedly sought,” said Linda Green, Executive Director of the Southern Virginia Regional Alliance (SVRA). “Therefore, we convened experts and resources to assist with these Human Resources needs.”

The Workforce Solutions webinar series addressed Childcare, Afterschool Care and Elder Care; Recruiting and Onboarding Employees; Trainings, Apprenticeships, Internships and Re-entry Programs; Higher Education, Skill Sets, Certifications and Recertifications; and Retention, Promotion and Advancement.

During one webinar, Steve Youll of the Virginia Economic Development Partnership Talent Attraction Program shared how talent attraction has evolved with increased expectations by candidates. He said “72% of job seekers report sharing negative candidate experiences online” and “55% of candidates will avoid certain companies after reading negative online reviews.”

Moderators included workforce experts Dr. Julie Brown of IALR and Robbie Knight of Virginia Career Works-West Piedmont. The series was originated, organized and marketed by the SOVA COVID-19 Task Force, which is managed by the Southern Virginia Regional Alliance.

Recordings are available at svra.org under COVID-19 Economic Resources. In the future, similar programs will be provided in the eastern part of the GO Virginia Region 3 service area.

The SOVA Task Force webinars are part of the GO Virginia Region 3 Bridge to Recovery Grant. Regional employers like Axxor have adapted to the impact of COVID while continuing safe operations.

Green Named VEDA Treasurer

Green Named VEDA Treasurer

Linda Green, IALR’s Director of Economic Development and Executive Director of the Southern Virginia Regional Alliance, has been named Treasurer for the 2022 Executive Committee of the Board of Directors for the Virginia Economic Developers Association (VEDA), a committee on which she has served for several years. The new officers were elected at the two-day annual membership meeting in December.

The Virginia Economic Developers Association is a non-profit, non-partisan membership association for individuals with a professional interest in economic development across the Commonwealth of Virginia. VEDA serves as the voice of economic development in Virginia and was founded in 1982 to increase the effectiveness of individuals involved in the practice of economic development in Virginia by encouraging cooperation, exchange of information, and professional development activities.

IALR Staff Receive Service Awards

IALR Staff Receive Service Awards

Three IALR employees recently received service awards. Amy Turner, Laboratory Research Associate, celebrated 10 years in April. Her research includes applications of endophytic bacteria, controlled environment agriculture, and helping industry move products toward commercialization. Executive Director Mark Gignac celebrated five years in July. Gignac oversees all divisions of IALR and represents the organization as a leader of economic transformation across the region. Director of Economic Development Linda Green celebrated five years in October. She helps leverage the hosting resources of IALR to assist local economic developers in marketing the Southern Virginia region.