TOBACCO REGION REVITALIZATION COMMISSION MEETS IN BRISTOL

GRANT AND LOAN PROJECTS WILL HELP LOCALITIES ATTRACT AND GROW BUSINESSES, ASSIST LOCAL FARMERS AND GROW VIRGINIA’S TOURISM INDUSTRY

Bristol, VA – The Virginia Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission met on Thursday, May 12th, at the Bristol Sessions Hotel to approve projects that will help localities attract and grow businesses, assist local farmers and grow Virginia’s tourism industry. The Commission serves 40 localities in southern and southwest Virginia.

Tobacco Commission Chairman, Ed Owens said, “As our economy continues to recover, the Tobacco Commission is more important than ever for the communities of southern and southwest Virginia. The Commission’s ability to invest in a diverse array of economic development efforts, from long term projects like business parks and industrial sites to projects designed to quickly grow our talent base and more, is critical to the future success of the regions we serve. I think the work done here in Bristol over the last two days reflects that diverse approach to building a strong economy for southern and southwest Virginia and I look forward to seeing the projects approved here get underway.”

Tobacco Commission Acting Director, Andy Sorrell said, “I am proud of what the Commission accomplished here in Bristol. The Commission continues to support a variety of projects that will have far-reaching impacts and support our goal of developing a diverse economy in southern and southwest Virginia.” 

The following projects were approved for funding by the Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission (Please see the meeting packet on our website for full project descriptions, staff comments, grant requirements and other business including project extensions and modifications): 

In addition to the projects listed below, the Commission also adopted a new budget for the upcoming fiscal year and approved numerous funding requests from educational institutions within the region for Workforce Financial Aid for Tobacco Region residents during the 2022-23 school year among other Commission actions.

Southwest Virginia Program

#3966, Abingdon Feeder Cattle Association
Improving Genetics, Health, and Management of Small Ruminants in SWVA – $215,000 Grant
Interest in small ruminant production and marketing is increasing in SWVA as additional producers show interest in livestock enterprises. In SWVA counties sheep and goats adapt well to the mountainous and hilly terrain and are one of the fastest growing agricultural segments. This project will support the many small ruminant producers in SWVA by providing and implementing a cost-share program to improve the genetic quality, health, and overall management of producers’ flocks and herds. This project is intended to help build the knowledge and confidence of small ruminant producers and provide them with a thorough understanding of these areas. The project is a collaboration of Virginia Cooperative Extension, Virginia Tech Southwest Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Small Farm Outreach Program at the Virginia State University, Abingdon Feeder Cattle Association, Virginia Sheep Producers Association, Coalfield Sheep Association, and the New River Valley Sheep and Goat Club. 

#3970, Grayson County
Sheep Wool Baler – $2,500 Grant
This project will provide a new wool baler in Grayson County which will allow producers in the region to maintain profitability. Grayson County serves as a collection point for producers to bring wool to be packed and shipped to a buyer. The baler that is currently being utilized is 40 years old, in extreme disrepair and has surpassed its useful life. 

#3968, Floyd County EDA
Planning Expansion of the Floyd Innovation Center – $20,000 Grant
This project will assist Floyd County in planning an expansion to the Floyd Innovation Center. The Floyd Innovation Center, built in 2014, serves as the focal point of entrepreneurship, innovation and business development in the County. It is completely full of growing businesses and an expansion is needed in order to continue small business development and job creation. Thirty-six people are employed at the the Innovation Center with the average full time wage being over $68,000 per year which is more than double the local average of $32,032. Three of the 4 businesses at the Innovation Center are growing and need more space and there are no other options for production, office or flex space in the County or Town currently. So far 10 businesses have “graduated” from the Innovation Center.

#3971, Historic Pocahontas Inc.
Engineering Study of Pocahontas Fuel Building and Dr. Ballard Building – $50,000 Grant
This project will assist the Town of Pocahontas with an engineering study that will provide the opportunity to seek funding to restore the buildings. With the success of Adventure Tourism in the area many business owners have/are inquiring to open a business in the town. Unfortunately, no viable buildings remain. Restoring these buildings would provide a much-needed venue to welcome new businesses, thereby increasing revenue for the town, and boosts Pocahontas as not only a tourist destination but a place to be.

#3974, Russell County IDA
ACME Building Renovations – Referred to VRA for $189,000 Loan
This project will provide matching funds for funds received from VCEDA to complete renovations of the old ACME building located in Lebanon VA for the benefit of Bates Family Farm. This will allow Bates Family Farm to expand the business from $1.4 million in 2021 to $2.5 million in 2022.

#3972, Joint IDA of Wythe County
Extension of Rail in Progress Park – $800,000 Grant
This project will expand rail lines to serve the Blue Star NBR site in Progress Park. Lot 24 in the park was recently selected for the largest manufacturing project announced in Southwest Virginia in over a generation. In fact, it’s the second largest manufacturing project announced in all of the Commonwealth of Virginia and the largest creation of manufacturing jobs in 30+ years. Blue Star NBR will be doing the initial construction of a nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) manufacturing facility. Soon thereafter, it is estimated that six glove manufacturing facilities will follow, with those built by Blue Star Manufacturing. This manufacturing campus will be dedicated to re-shoring personal protective equipment (PPE) manufacturing in a vertically-integrated model. The significant job creation (2400+ over 5 years) and capital investment ($714 million+ over the same period) amount to game changing levels for our whole region, far beyond our county borders.

#3973, Mount Rogers Development Partnership
Mount Rogers Regional Partnership: Talent & Industry Attraction Program – $300,000 Grant
This project will focus on the expansion of education and training opportunities that lead directly to occupations in the primary target industries of manufacturing; while healthcare is not a target industry, but a key component to the overall economic health, this project will also lead to opportunities in the healthcare sector. Mount Rogers Regional Partnership (formerly Virginia’s Industrial Advancement Alliance) is the Regional Economic Development Organization (REDO) responsible for business retention and expansion, marketing, business attraction, special projects such as site and infrastructure development, and now talent solutions. This is a project that will provide resources to continue business and capital investment attraction while also retaining and attracting talent within the region.

#3967, Town of Big Stone Gap
Regional Outdoor Recreation: Connecting Appalachia, Big Stone Gap, Norton, and Scott County – $300,000 Grant
Development of the Big Cherry Reservoir as both a day-use and overnight-use destination will connect and further enhance the established regional outdoor recreation destinations of the nearby Flag Rock Recreation Area, High Knob Recreation Area, High Knob Observation Tower, Devil’s Bathtub, and throughout the vast Jefferson National Forrest. The Big Cherry Reservoir is a 250 acre lake owned by the Town of Big Stone Gap. In addition to expanding the day-use of trail networks and connectivity for the trails, this project will expand the overnight lodging options of Yurts, Safari Tents, and primitive campsites at each of the destinations. The TRRC funding would construct 18 of the signature campsites at three locations.

#3969, Friends of Southwest Virginia
Southwest Virginia Regional Marketing Campaign – $140,000 Grant
This project seeks to leverage funds from the Commission, the federal POWER initiative, and other state and local resources to take the next step in the marketing of the Southwest Virginia region. This project will enhance the current marketing efforts of Friends of Southwest Virginia by incorporating the creation of new professional video and photography assets of the region and increasing the scope of the marketing campaign to reach new target markets. The goal of this project is to increase visitation to the entire Southwest Virginia region, while also increasing the direct visitor expenditures in lodging, food and beverage, retail, recreation, and transportation sectors of the local economy.

Southern Virginia Program

#3960, Patrick County Economic Development Authority
Patrick County Business Development Center – $500,000 Grant
The Patrick County Economic Development Authority proposes to redevelop approximately 16,000 SF of blighted commercial property in the Town of Stuart, Virginia for the purpose and use as a Business Development Center. Connecting local ideas, supporting new and existing business growth, and closing the communication gap to regional resources are important goals that this space will help to meet. Creation of support services and space for ecosystem building are considered essential to the success of modern economic development efforts and have been identified as priorities to regional investment. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for flexible, innovative, and highly networked facilities in rural areas. Utilization of existing MBC fiber is important to this project as the need for high speed internet must be addressed.

#3956, Brunswick County
Stonewall Site Development Project – $27,000 Grant
This project will assist with Due Diligence activities for the Stonewall property located on Governor Harrison Parkway in Brunswick County, Virginia. Completion of the Due Diligence activities by Timmons Group will include a Tier 4 Certification for the Stonewall property which will make the site highly marketable by the Virginia Economic Development Partnership. The industrial site is located approximately 10.3 miles west of 1-95 and 8.5 from the Town of Lawrenceville. The site consists of two parcels totaling 387.6 acres of land owned by the County and is connected to electricity, natural gas, water, sewer, and broadband. Currently, the site is zoned Agricultural, but the site is in the process of being rezoned Industrial.

#3957, Franklin County
Tier Improvements of Dogwood Site at Summit View Business Park – $1,500,000 Grant
This project will create a build ready site by completing the grading of the 55+/-acre building pad for a 1 million square foot facility and associated parking, loading, and trailer spaces. The project would also include needed erosion and controls, storm sewer piping, and required best management practices. The full 118-acre site would be available that can be developed in the future for additional support building(s), trailer storage, and flex space.

#3961, Prince Edward County
Water Tank – Prince Edward Heartland Innovation Technology Park – $530,100 Grant
This project will assist with the development of A&E designs for a water storage tank and booster pump station in the Heartland Innovation Technology Park, located in Prince Edward County just outside of Farmville. To develop the site as a marketable data center site, and upgrade it to a Tier IV designation by VEDP.  A number of projects are needed, including extending public water and sewer into the Park, constructing a water tower at the site (for fire flow and to help the Park meet daily water demands), extending natural gas service into the Park, and providing electric service into the Park. The PEIDA has been awarded funds through the VEDP Virginia Business Ready Sites Program for A&E designs of water and sewer lines to tie in the HIT Park to the Town of Farmville’s public water and sewer systems.

#3962, Town of Rocky Mount
Cox Site Master Plan – Franklin County – Rocky Mount Industrial Park – $44,940 Grant
This project will raise the level of readiness for the Cox Site, part of the Franklin County – Rocky Mount Industrial Park. The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) currently designates the Park as Tier 2 under the Virginia Business Ready Sites Program (VBRSP). The report lays out next steps, including a list of specific engineering and surveying reports, that would increase the tier level of the site. If the reports are completed, and no issues are found in the reports, the site would improve to Tier 4 level of readiness.

#3964, Virginia’s Heartland Regional Industrial Facilities Authority
VHRIFA Business Readiness – Virginia’s Heartland Regional Industrial Park – $112,400 Grant
This project will prepare site design plans for the development of sites in the Virginia’s Heartland Regional Industrial Park for the purpose of marketing the Park. The improvements are needed to bring the Park up to a Tier IV designation by VEDP, which would make the Park marketable to business prospects. 

#3963, Town of Stuart
The Star Theatre Economic and Market Feasibility Study – $7,500 Grant
This project will assist the Town of Stuart in hiring a consultant to perform an Economic and Market Feasibility Study for the purchase and operation of a music venue/theatre/community space in a newly designated historic district. These efforts will coincide with a larger downtown revitalization plan being executed by Patrick County Economic Development and the West Piedmont Planning District Commission. The Star Theatre is a 4,725 SF building located at 318 Patrick Avenue in Stuart, VA. It dates back to at least 1947, and like many small rural downtowns, the place has seen numerous businesses come and go. The most recent renovations were completed in 2007 and it has been largely underutilized since that time.

Contact: Jordan Butler
Telephone: 804-786-7692
Cell: 757-692-0878
Email: jbutler@revitalizeva.org
Website: www.revitalizeva.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
5/13/2022

TOBACCO REGION REVITALIZATION COMMISSION MEETS IN RICHMOND

GRANT AND LOAN PROJECTS WILL CREATE NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR FARMERS AND HELP LOCALITIES ATTRACT NEW BUSINESSES

RICHMOND, VA – The Virginia Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission met on Friday, January 7th, at the Richmond Marriott to approve projects that promise to create new opportunities for farmers, increase the ability of localities to attract new businesses, support entrepreneurs as they seek to start a business and attract valuable tourism dollars to the region. The Commission serves 40 localities in southern and southwest Virginia.

Tobacco Commission Chairman, Ed Owens said, “Supporting our farmers and producers, as well as creating jobs and opportunity in the communities we serve by helping attract new businesses and expand existing ones, have always been priorities for the Tobacco Commission and the projects approved at this meeting will do all of those things and more. I’m proud of what the Commission accomplished here in Richmond and look forward to seeing these projects get underway.”

Tobacco Commission Executive Director, Evan Feinman added, “The ability to quickly adapt to a changing environment is a core strength of the Commission and allows us to meet the current needs of the communities we serve. From helping Barter Theatre recover from the effects of the pandemic to ensuring that localities have the infrastructure in place to support large projects, and everything in-between, the Commission has never been more ready to move forward and meet the challenges of developing a diverse economy in Southern and Southwest Virginia.”

Additionally, the Commission has released its 2021 annual report which can be viewed here: Annual Report

The following projects were approved for funding by the Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission (Please see the meeting packet on our website for full project descriptions, staff comments, grant requirements and other business including project extensions and modifications):

Southern Virginia Program

3891, Campbell County

Southern Virginia Precision Agriculture & Farm Efficiency Grant – $505,000 Grant
This project will support a cost share program intended to “encourage producers to incorporate new practices that enhance their operation’s inputs and cost savings.” The Virginia Cooperative Extension offices in 19 counties would administer the program and 8-10 producers would be supported per county. The program is targeted to four categories (1) Precision and Improved Agriculture Technology; (2) Produce Equipment & Cold Storage; (3) Produce Handling & Hay Storage Facilities; and (4) Livestock Handling Equipment.

3895, Martinsville-Henry County Chambers Partnership for Economic Growth

Startup/Grow Martinsville-Henry County Expansion – $103,575 Grant
The MHC Chamber of Commerce coordinates the Chamber’s Partnership for Economic Growth (CPEG) program in partnership with Patrick Henry Community College and Longwood Small Business Development Center. This project will allow CPEG to serve additional entrepreneurs, provide additional training to entrepreneurs, and to make additional investments in viable business concepts. The focus of this funding will be on incentives for businesses that produce a traded product or service, contributing to the region’s economic base. Examples of targeted sectors include agribusiness, technology, small-scale production, manufacturing, and health care businesses.

Southwest Virginia Program

3928, Abingdon Feeder Cattle Association

Mechanizing Forage Research In Southwest Virginia – Phase III – $9,000 Grant
This project will support the purchase of a no-till seed drill for use in seeding forage research and demonstration plots. TRRC previously supported the purchase of harvesting equipment required for forage research.

3930, Floyd County EDA

Floyd County: Adding Much-Needed Meat Processing Capacity – $8,671 Grant
This project will assist with equipment purchases for the establishment of a new, privately owned, meat processing facility in Floyd County. The facility will serve 50 producers by its third year resulting in a $10,000 increase in revenue for the producers.

3927, Virginia Pumpkin Growers Association

FRESH START: On-Farm Produce Safety Investments from Farm to Market – $507,000 Grant
This project will assist with training and on farm infrastructure for fresh produce growers required to obtain USDA’s Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) certification. This certification allows producers to verify that the farm’s production and handling practices meet required safety guidelines. GAP certification is necessary to allow producers to sell products through commercial market opportunities. The majority of the grant ($500,000) will be used for producer cost share payments. A small amount ($7,000) is allocated for training materials and supplies as well as for printing and postage costs. Grant funds will reimburse 33% of eligible costs up to a $5,000 limit. This request will support approximately 100 producers.

3923, Lonesome Pine Regional Industrial Facilities Authority

Project Intersection – Building #1 – $500,000 Grant
This project supports infrastructure needs at the Project Intersection industrial site in Norton. The property requires additional site development, as well as construction of a 30,000 SF building, to accommodate the recently announced EarthLink project. These improvements must be completed within a 24 month period in order to accommodate the project. Commission funds will be used for the site development work including paving, curbs and gutters, site signage, lighting, parking bumpers, etc.

3926, Russell County Industrial Development Authority

Russell Place Project Phase II – $303,500 Grant
This project will support the redevelopment of a property in the Town of Lebanon. Within the last 36 months, 30 new businesses have located in Russell County and the IDA does not have any properties available for new prospects. To accommodate future demand for industrial space the IDA purchased a vacant property consisting of an existing 5,200 square foot building on a 12.6 acre site. These funds will be used for Phase II renovations of the building including demolition of the oldest portion of the building and renovation of the remaining structure.

3929, Joint IDA of Wythe County

Construction of Wastewater Line for Progress Park Lot 24 – Referred to VRA for a $500,000 loan
This project will assist with necessary infrastructure improvements to serve Lot 24 in Progress Park which is the location of the recent Blue Star NBR and the Blue Star AGI industrial announcements. Required infrastructure improvements to accommodate the Blue Star project total approximately $31.9M. This application focuses on the extension of wastewater service to site via construction of a force main line.

3925, The Barter Foundation, Inc.

Barter Theatre Regional Marketing Campaign – $70,000 Grant
This project will assist Barter Theatre in hiring a public relations firm to develop and implement a two year regional marketing campaign with the Theatre at the center. A strategy will be developed to appeal to urban markets. Barter wishes to increase attendance from beyond a 100 mile radius and believes there is untapped potential to recruit patrons from markets such as DC and Atlanta.

Contact: Jordan Butler
Telephone: 804-786-7692
Cell: 757-692-0878
Email: jbutler@revitalizeva.org
Website: www.revitalizeva.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
1/7/2022

TOBACCO REGION REVITALIZATION COMMISSION MEETS IN BEDFORD

GRANT AND LOAN PROJECTS SUPPORT EFFORTS TO INCREASE EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR RESIDENTS, IMPROVE PROFITABILITY FOR FARMERS AND CREATE JOBS IN SOUTHERN AND SOUTHWEST VIRGINIA

BEDFORD, VA – The Virginia Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission met on Wednesday, September 22nd, at Peaks of Otter Lodge in Bedford County to approve projects that promise to create nearly 1,500 jobs, support many new and expanded workforce training programs, along with value-added facilities for farmers in Brunswick and surrounding localities, industrial site improvements and much more. The Commission serves 40 localities in southern and southwest Virginia.

Tobacco Commission Chairman, Ed Owens said, “The projects the Commission chose to support at this meeting will create jobs and opportunities for the residents of our rural communities and that’s something we can all be proud of. I am also pleased that the Commission was able to conduct its business in-person for the first time in quite a while here in Bedford. As our communities recover from the pandemic, the Commission is ready and able to assist them and continue to serve as a catalyst for growth in Southern and Southwest Virginia.”

Tobacco Commission Executive Director Evan Feinman added, “Recovering from the economic impact of the pandemic will take time, but I am proud of the work the Commission did at this meeting to spur growth and assist in speeding up that recovery. The ability to support many types of projects to meet the region’s needs – including industrial sites, agriculture projects, and workforce development – has always been one of the Commission’s strengths and will continue to be moving forward.”

In addition to supporting 18 funding requests totaling $6.5 million in grants and loans, the Commission approved $3 million for the FY22 Talent Attraction Program and $2.6 million in Tobacco Region Opportunity Fund (TROF) grants and loans to attract large projects to the region.

The following projects were approved for funding by the Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission (Please see the meeting packet on our website for full project descriptions, staff comments, grant requirements and other business including project extensions and modifications):

Incentives & Loans Program

3912, Danville-Pittsylvania Regional Industrial Facilities Authority

Tyson Foods – $707,000 TROF grant and $822,000 0% interest TROF loan
Over a 3-year performance period, this project will provide 375 new jobs at an average annual salary of $41,668 and a private taxable capital investment of $295 million.

Wythe County Joint Industrial Development Authority

Project Palm – $1,022,000 TROF grant.
Over a 3-year performance period, this project will provide 1,044 new jobs at an average annual salary of $37,321 and a private taxable capital investment of $446 million.

Competitive Education Program

3898, Floyd County Economic Development Authority

New Adult Welding, Fabrication and Machining program at the Floyd County Public Schools (FCPS) Collaboration and Career Development Center (CCDC) – $162,106 grant.
This project will purchase equipment for a new Metal Working Lab and a new Welding, Fabrication, and Machining Program under development with FCPS as well as support an instructor for the evening program for three years.

3900, Virginia Technical Institute

Workforce Pipeline Advanced Manufacturing and Skilled Labor – $60,000 grant.
This project will support the costs of a instructor to launch a new entry level advanced manufacturing and skilled labor training program at VTI’s facility in Altavista. The training will provide knowledge and skills for obtaining three nationally recognized credentials: OSHA 10, NCCER Core, and Skills USA Career Essentials.

3910, Wytheville Community College

WCC Center for Automation and Robotics Education – $466,829 grant.
This project will purchase equipment to establish the WCC Center for Automation and Robotics Education (CARE) Lab. Two adjoining lab spaces will be renovated to house the newly established automation and robotics programs where three new programs will be offered at two levels—fundamental and advanced. These programs will allow WCC to offer stackable credentials that meet workforce demands of current as well as newly announced manufacturers.

3907, Institute for Advanced Learning and Research

ExperienceWorks, Apprenticeships – $64,800 grant.
This project will support an Apprenticeship Coordinator position. The Coordinator will be responsible for employer outreach and developing apprenticeship positions so that more apprenticeship opportunities are available in the region. This initiative is targeted to high school juniors and seniors and is designed create a culture of understanding that apprenticeships are for everyone, and they can provide a clear benefit for employers and jobseekers.

3901, Emory & Henry College

Improving Rural Healthcare through Nursing Education – $207,195 grant.
This project will support two faculty positions for 18 months in the newly established Bachelors of Nursing program (BSN) located at Emory & Henry’s School of Health Sciences in Marion. The project will also support additional simulation mannequins and related software expenses. Once reaching full capacity, 40 students are expected to be enrolled and 35 are expected to graduate from the BSN program annually.

3905, Ferrum College

Ferrum College Division of Nursing Educational Space Expansion – $133,188 grant.
This project will support the costs for renovating and furnishing the lower level of Vaughn Chapel into a learning laboratory to support the expansion of Ferrum College’s new Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. The renovation will provide a central location for students to complete their nursing training.

3899, Patrick & Henry Community College Foundation

Increasing Healthcare Training Capacity to Meet Employer Demand – $210,294 grant.
This project will support a new Healthcare Skills Lab and an additional Nurse Aide/Clinical/Laboratory Instructor to increase the capacity of existing healthcare programs at P&HCC. Availability of the new lab is expected to assist the college in meeting employer demand for trained Nurse Aides while also supporting increased enrollment and success for students in other health care programs including Nursing, Practical Nursing, Phlebotomy, and Certified Clinical Medical Assistant.

3902, Southern Virginia Higher Education Center

Center of Nursing Excellence: Equipment and Technology Refresh – $152,704 grant.
This project will update equipment and technology at the Southern Virginia Higher Education Center’s Center of Nursing Excellence (CNE). This project will ensure that high-quality clinical skills training remains accessible for health profession students and incumbent workers in the region and will allow for current capacity to be expanded.

3909, Southside Virginia Community College Foundation

Expanding Nursing Education in Southside Virginia – $398,350 grant.
This project will allow SVCC to expand its Associates Degree in Nursing (ADN) program to include a weekend program designed to graduate nurses over four consecutive semesters. The goal is to increase nursing student enrollment and to target a population that is not currently being reached.

3906, Averett University

Growing Workforce Talent Through Expanded Market Responsive Education – $120,000 grant.
This project will support the purchase of equipment and furnishing to complete the $4 million initiative to expand Averett Online. Six new market-responsive degree programs will be added, eighty-five existing courses will be retooled, and a recruitment call center will be created to support expanding enrollment.

3908, CODEVA INC.

Strengthening the Computer Science Education Pipeline – $166,612 grant.
This project will support computer science training to teachers in the TRRC region for an additional two years. Under the program, CodeVA will offer 18 courses to teachers through a combination of online and in-person events, some of which will last a single day and others for several weeks. TRRC funds will support stipends for teacher participants to offset expenses incurred, or potential lost income, while attending trainings. Funds will also be used to support costs associated with holding the trainings and to purchase robotics kits housed at the existing regional hubs at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center and IALR.

Southern Virginia Program

3889, Brunswick County Industrial Development Authority

Brunswick County Produce Project – $500,000 grant and 300,000 0% interest loan.
This project will support the construction of a produce aggregation and processing facility. This project is a public-private partnership between the Brunswick County Industrial Development Authority (IDA) and Southside Virginia Vegetable Packing, LLC (SVVP). The private operator projects the creation of 60 jobs employed annually by year 5. Approximately 21 producers averaging of $20,000 net new farm income are expected to benefit from the facility annually resulting in at least $420,000 aggregate increase in annual farm income.

3896, West Piedmont Planning District Commission

Regional Agritourism and Agribusiness Development Project – $80,000 grant.
This project will launch a regional agritourism business development and marketing program. The project is targeted to the PDC’s service area including the counties of Patrick, Henry, Franklin and Pittsylvania, and the two cities of Martinsville and Danville. Data collected will be used to create an interactive online map that will allow users to search specific products, services or activities by location to find what is close to them.

3894, Longwood University Real Estate Foundation

SEED Innovation Hub – $500,000 grant
This project will support a portion of the renovation costs to create the SEED Innovation Hub at Midtown Landing in downtown Farmville. The Innovation Hub will serve residents of seven counties in Southern Virginia and is designed to fill identified regional gaps in facilities for entrepreneurship and innovation.

3890, Martinsville-Henry County Economic Development Corp.

Commonwealth Crossing Tract 5 Site Development – $357,741 grant.
This project will support the costs for grading Tract 5, a 10-acre lot at the Commonwealth Crossing Business Center.

3897, Virginia’s Heartland Regional Industrial Facilities Authority

Virginia’s Heartland Regional Industrial Park Onsite Water Supply – $20,000 grant.
This project will support a preliminary engineering report to establish an onsite water supply that is necessary to serve targeted industrial development.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
9/24/21

Contact: Jordan Butler
Telephone: 804-786-7692
Cell: 757-692-0878
Email: jbutler@revitalizeva.org
Website: www.revitalizeva.org

285 New Jobs Coming to City of Norton

Earthlink to Establish New Customer Support Center

Governor Ralph Northam announced today that Earthlink will establish a new customer support center in the City of Norton. The project will create 285 new jobs and includes $5.4 million in capital investment. The Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission is supporting this project with a $62,500 Tobacco Region Opportunity Fund grant.

Tobacco Commission member, Delegate Terry Kilgore said, “I cannot express how excited we are to have Earthlink locating in Southwest Virginia. I have spent countless hours with the EarthLink team working on this opportunity and can definitely say that we are not only getting a new company that will be creating 285 new, good paying jobs in Southwest Virginia, we are also getting a company that will be an innovative, leading community partner.”

CEO of EarthLink, Glenn Goad added, “Having grown up in this area, it gives me great pride to further EarthLink’s efforts to provide award-winning customer experiences through our new sales and service center in Norton, Virginia. We look forward to a long partnership with this community and the employees who will become part of EarthLink.”

EarthLink is a top U.S. internet service provider offering access to fast, secure, and reliable internet to more homes and small businesses than any other ISP. As an internet pioneer founded in 1994, EarthLink continues to lead the way by offering customers the right connection — the right speed at the right price. An independent company, EarthLink was certified as a Great Place to Work in 2020 and 2021.

Wise County Administrator and Lonesome Pine RIFA Chairman, Mike Hatfield said, “The Lonesome Pine Regional Industrial Facilities Authority (LPRIFA) and its member localities are excited to welcome Earthlink to Southwest Virginia. EarthLink is the first company to announce locating within the LPRIFA’s Project Intersection development in Norton.”

“Virginia’s Southwest is loaded with assets that can attract major corporate players like Atlanta, GA-based EarthLink,” said Will Payne, lead consultant for the Tobacco Commission’s InvestSWVA initiative. “The fact that Glenn Goad, a son of our region, chose to reshore overseas jobs in the City of Norton and Wise County is proof positive that Southwest Virginia’s assets are world-class competitive.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
9/14/2021

Contact: Jordan Butler
Telephone: 804-786-7692
Cell: 757-692-0878
Email: jbutler@revitalizeva.org
Website: www.revitalizeva.org

62 New Jobs Coming to Danville

Kegerreis Digital Marketing to Relocate Headquarters from Pennsylvania

Governor Ralph Northam announced that Kegerreis Digital Marketing (KDM) will move their headquarters from Pennsylvania to the City of Danville. The move will create 62 new jobs and will generate $1.7 million in capital investment. The Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission is supporting this project with a $45,500 Tobacco Region Opportunity Fund (TROF) grant and a $45,500 TROF loan.

Tobacco Commission Chairman, Ed Owens said, “Southern Virginia is a great place to live and work and our ability to attract top employers, like KDM, is evidence of that. The Tobacco Commission has worked hard over the years to help create an exceptional business environment in the regions we serve and that work is paying off. I welcome KDM to Danville and wish them the best as they make Southern Virginia their new home.”

President and Chief Information Officer, Kegerreis Digital Marketing, Larz Kegerreis added, “Kegerreis Digital Marketing is very pleased to locate our headquarters in the City of Danville. The quality of life, beauty of the region, and the excellent secondary schools in Danville and Pittsylvania County provide an environment where our employees will love to live, work, and raise their families. The proximity to the Research Triangle and recent surges in economic development within the City make this an excellent time to invest. We are excited to be a part of the future of this region.”

KDM is an integrated marketing and analytics company and independent subsidiary of Kegerreis Outdoor Advertising. Founded in 1979, Kegerreis Outdoor Advertising is the tenth-largest billboard company in the country, with over 2,500 billboard displays in seven states along the East Coast, including Virginia. Subsidiary Kegerreis Digital Marketing provides integrated marketing, such as brand development, billboards, and online efforts, as well as analytics for e-commerce retailers, digital start-ups, and venture firms, in addition to local and regional businesses.

Danville Mayor, Alonzo Jones said, “On behalf of the City of Danville, I want to welcome Kegerreis Digital Marketing and thank the company for choosing our city for the relocation of its headquarters. We also are pleased that KDM has selected a site in our River District, which is a place that distinguishes Danville from thousands of other communities. With its passion for entrepreneurialism and excellence, KDM will be a tremendous addition to our growing business community.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
9/9/2021

Contact: Jordan Butler
Telephone: 804-786-7692
Cell: 757-692-0878
Email: jbutler@revitalizeva.org
Website: www.revitalizeva.org

Tyson Foods Coming to Danville Pittsylvania County

Project Will Create More Than 375 New Jobs

Governor Ralph Northam announced today that Tyson Foods, Inc. will open a new manufacturing facility in Cane Creek Centre. The project will create 376 new jobs and includes $300 million in capital investment. Tyson will construct a 325,000 square foot facility at Cane Creek Centre, an industrial park jointly owned by Danville and Pittsylvania County. The facility will produce a variety of premium quality, fully cooked Tyson branded chicken products.

The Tobacco Commission is assisting this project with a $707,000 Tobacco Region Opportunity Fund (TROF) grant and an $822,000 TROF loan. Additionally, the Tobacco Commission has provided more than $4.9 million in funds for improvements to Cane Creek Centre over the years.

Tobacco Commission member, and CEO of the Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce Dr. Alexis Ehrhardt, said, “Danville Pittsylvania County is a great place to do business. When an industry leader like Tyson recognizes this, and makes a large investment in our community, they make the business story even stronger. I am so pleased that the Tobacco Commission was able to play a role in bringing Tyson and the associated 376 new jobs, not only through incentives for this particular project, but also through long-term investments in Cane Creek Centre. We look forward to supporting Tyson as they get construction underway and we welcome the company to our region.”

Tobacco Commission member, Senator Frank Ruff said, “I am delighted that Tyson has chosen to come to the region. Tyson was pleased with what the area offered employers, and we were pleased with the Tyson leadership team. Tyson will be a quality employer and asset to the community.”

President of Prepared Foods for Tyson Foods, Noelle O’Mara said, “As consumers actively look to add more protein to their diets, Tyson is uniquely positioned as a category leader to meet that growing demand. Our continued focus on consumer driven innovation will accelerate this momentum and our investment in Danville-Pittsylvania County will help drive the long-term growth of the iconic Tyson brand.”

Group President of Poultry for Tyson Foods, David Bray added, “Our company has been successfully working in the Commonwealth of Virginia for decades. We’re thankful for the invitation to become a part of the City of Danville and Pittsylvania County communities. The location is appealing because of the strong support from both state and local leaders, as well as the viability of labor in the region.”

Tyson Foods is one of the world’s largest food companies and a recognized leader in protein. Founded in 1935 by John W. Tyson and grown under three generations of family leadership, the company has a broad portfolio of products and brands like Tyson®, Jimmy Dean®, Hillshire Farm®, Ball Park®, Wright®, Aidells®, ibp®, and State Fair®. Tyson Foods innovates continually to make protein more sustainable, tailor food for everywhere it’s available and raise the world’s expectations for how much good food can do. Headquartered in Springdale, Arkansas, the company has 139,000 team members. Through its Core Values, Tyson Foods strives to operate with integrity, create value for its shareholders, customers, communities and team members and serve as a steward of the animals, land and environment entrusted to it. Tyson currently employs more than 2,000 people in Virginia.

Chairman of the Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors, Bob Warren said, “I am thrilled that Tyson has chosen to make such a significant investment in our community and employ so many in our region. With this being one of the largest capital investments in our county to date, Tyson clearly sees and believes that Pittsylvania County, as well as our entire region, is a truly great place to do business. I am extremely grateful that Tyson will employ so many in our area and play such a key role in furthering the positive economic momentum Pittsylvania County and the City of Danville are experiencing.”

Supervisor for the Dan River District where the plant will be located, Joe Davis, said “Tyson choosing to make such a significant capital investment and employ so many in our region is yet another example of the strong business environment that Pittsylvania County and Danville have developed. We are confident that Tyson will be an excellent corporate citizen in Pittsylvania County and will help us continue to improve the economic prosperity across our entire region. Welcome aboard Tyson!”

Chairman of the Danville-Pittsylvania Regional Industrial Facility Authority, Sherman Saunders added, “The story of Tyson Foods is one of purpose, hard work, and innovation. Those qualities have led the company to its position today as one of the world’s largest food companies and a recognized leader in its industry. I am excited to see what the future has in store for the company and the state-of-the-art facility that it will build here. We look forward to having a great relationship with Tyson Foods for a long time to come.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
8/26/2021

Contact: Jordan Butler
Telephone: 804-786-7692
Cell: 757-692-0878
Email: jbutler@revitalizeva.org
Website: www.revitalizeva.org

Woodgrain Millwork Expanding in Smyth County

Company to Create 100 New Jobs

Governor Ralph Northam announced today that Woodgrain Millwork will expand in Smyth County. The project will create 100 new jobs, while saving 80 jobs at Independence Lumber in Grayson, and includes nearly $9 million in capital investment. Additionally, Woodgrain will invest $8 million to purchase and expand the former Independence Lumber sawmill in Grayson County. The Tobacco Commission is supporting this project with a $57,500 Tobacco Region Opportunity Fund grant.

Tobacco Commission member, Sandy Ratliff said, “This is an exciting day for Smyth County and Southwest Virginia. Woodgrain is an industry leader and I am pleased that the Tobacco Commission was able to support this expansion that will bring 100 new jobs and millions of dollars of investment to our region. I wish Woodgrain the best as they get their project underway and know they will continue to find success here in Southwest Virginia for many years to come.”

Woodgrain Eastern Region Millwork Manager, Robb Hitch added, “We are excited about expanding our operations and furthering our commitment to Southwest Virginia. We believe this will have a significant, positive impact on the local economy and allow us to further leverage our vertical integration by supplying lumber to our millwork location in Smyth County and throughout the Southwest. It’s a win-win situation that will allow us to continue to provide best-in-class service and product.”

Woodgrain, a 3rd generation family owned and operated company, is one of the largest millwork operations in the world, with locations all around the United States and Chile. With more than 65 years of quality craftsmanship and service, Woodgrain makes the highest quality wood mouldings, doors, and windows. Woodgrain is vertically integrated, which allows them to oversee each step of the supply chain — From owning the forest and cutting the timber in their own state-of-the-art sawmills, to production in their network of manufacturing facilities, to delivery of goods with their strategic distribution network.
Smyth County Administrator, Shawn Utt said, “Woodgrain’s continued investment at their Atkins facility shows how much they believe in their employees and our community as a whole. We want the company to know how much we believe in them, as well, and appreciate those investments. They have long served our County as a prime employer, and we look forward to many more years of progress and growth.”

Smyth County Board of Supervisors Chair, Charles Atkins added, “The Board of Supervisors are thrilled Woodgrain continues to show faith in Smyth County. With Woodgrain’s expansion bringing 80 new jobs to our area, it will continue to support our citizens and grow our County. We look forward to continuing to work with such a strong employer in our community and wish them a long future of success.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
8/20/2021

Contact: Jordan Butler
Telephone: 804-786-7692
Cell: 757-692-0878
Email: jbutler@revitalizeva.org
Website: www.revitalizeva.org

MEP Ltd. Coming to Danville-Pittsylvania County

Company to Establish First United States Operation in Cyber Park

Governor Ralph Northam announced today that MEP Ltd. will establish their first U.S. operation in the Danville-Pittsylvania Cyber Park. The project will create 45 new jobs and includes $6.4 million in capital investment. The Tobacco Commission is supporting this project with a $270,000 Tobacco Region Opportunity Fund (TROF) grant and a $270,000 TROF Loan. The Commission has also provided $300,000 for the development of the Cyber Park as well as significant support for the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research which will serve as MEP’s home while they construct their new facility.

Tobacco Commission member Dr. Alexis Ehrhardt said, “From a single garage in the U.K. all the way to our Cyber Park here in Danville-Pittsylvania County almost 50 years later, MEP is a fantastic success story and I am proud that they chose to open their first U.S. facility in Southern Virginia. The entrepreneurial spirit that MEP represents is a perfect fit for our region, as is their focus on designing and manufacturing products for the aerospace industry, a growing business sector in Southern Virginia. I wish MEP the best as they get their project underway, and welcome them as an important addition to our business community.”

MEP Ltd. is a manufacturer of complex plastic and metal components for the aerospace and defense sectors. Founded in 1972 and headquartered in the United Kingdom, MEP has successfully served the aerospace and defense sectors for four decades. MEP has $3.2 million in global sales and currently operates a 21,000-square-foot plastic and metal components manufacturing facility in Kent, U.K. The company will operate in the U.S. as Making Everything Possible LLC.

Phil Hart, Executive Chair of MEP Ltd. and President of Making Everything Possible LLC said, “Following extensive research regarding the best location the U.S. for MEP Ltd.’s continued expansion, including North Carolina and northern Virginia, we are delighted to have chosen Danville as our base for Making Everything Possible LLC. The support and guidance we have received form the City, County, and State has been exemplary. The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research is a very particular draw for us, as the approach to encouraging the growth of STEM skills and diversity has been a major reason for our decision, and we look forward to working closely with Troy Simpson and his team to continue the good work in advanced manufacturing and technology. Together, we can grow our U.S. business, sharing our success with the people of Danville and the Commonwealth of Virginia. Together, we can go beyond, Making Everything Possible.”

Danville Mayor Alonzo Jones added, “On behalf of the City of Danville, I want to say ‘thank you’ to MEP for choosing our city and region for its first U.S. operation, and we look forward to them becoming a vital and successful member of the business community. Also, once again, I say ‘thank you’ to all the partners involved in making this day possible. Working together, we are taking Danville and the Dan River Region to the next level.”

Robert W. “Bob” Warren, Chairman of the Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors said, “I am pleased that Making Everything Possible, LLC has chosen Danville-Pittsylvania County for its first U.S. operations. Our local economic development team first met with and toured the Company’s U.K. facility during a European trade mission, and it was apparent that the technologies utilized by this Company would greatly complement our existing workforce programs. On behalf of the Board, I thank Mr. Hart and his firm for their commitment to our growing community and wish them nothing but success. In Danville-Pittsylvania County anything is possible.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
6/7/2021

Contact: Jordan Butler
Telephone: 804-786-7692
Cell: 757-692-0878
Email: jbutler@revitalizeva.org
Website: www.revitalizeva.org

Walraven, Inc. Coming to Danville-Pittsylvania County

Company to Relocate U.S. Headquarters and Manufacturing Operation

Governor Ralph Northam announced today that Walraven, Inc. will relocate its U.S. headquarters to Danville-Pittsylvania County. The headquarters and associated manufacturing operation will be located in the shell building at Cane Creek Centre. The project will create 46 new jobs as well as $7.15 million in capital investment. The Tobacco Commission is supporting this project with a $46,500 Tobacco Region Opportunity Fund (TROF) grant as well as a $46,500 TROF loan. The Commission also provided $1.15 million for the construction of the Cane Creek Shell Building as well as more than $6 million in grants for improvements to Cane Creek Centre over the years.

Tobacco Commission Vice-Chair, Delegate Lashrecse Aird said, “What a great day for Southern Virginia and Danville-Pittsylvania County. The Tobacco Commission works hard to attract top employers to the regions we serve and Walraven choosing to locate its North American headquarters here goes to show that Southern Virginia can compete with anyone. I want to welcome Walraven to our Southern Virginia business community and wish the company the best as they make Danville-Pittsylvania County its new home.”

Walraven, Inc. is part of the Walraven group of companies, which is a family-owned, global market leader of value-added installation systems for mechanical, plumbing, fire, seismic, and electrical industries and applications. Headquartered in the Netherlands, Walraven manufactures its products in the Netherlands, United Kingdom, Czech Republic, Spain, Turkey, China, India, Dubai, Canada, and the United States, and sells its high-quality products globally. Walraven, Inc. USA manufactures and markets pipe supports, struts and accessories, and in-wall solutions specifically designed for U.S. plumbing and mechanical applications in North America. Walraven products are incorporated in a wide range of residential, light commercial, and heavy-duty commercial applications including houses, hotels, high-rises, apartment complexes, schools and universities, airports, multi-use buildings, sports arenas, and industrial facilities.

CEO of Walraven, Pelle van Walraven said, “Walraven was impressed with the positive business climate and the engagement of the economic development team in Danville and Pittsylvania County. We selected Danville because of its availability of property, competitive proposals, engaging community, commitment and investment in technical education, and access to markets. Walraven is looking forward to implementing its global strategy in the U.S. and building a ‘multinational with a heart’ in Virginia.”

Danville Mayor Alonzo Jones said, “We continue to make great strides in reimagining our city and the Dan River Region, and this announcement today is further evidence of those efforts. Once again, as we celebrate this announcement, let us also celebrate the partnerships in place that brought us to this point. On behalf of the City of Danville, I want to thank Walraven for choosing to call our city and region its home.”

Chairman of the Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors, Bob Warren added, “I am thankful that Walraven is committing to locate in the Cane Creek Centre in Pittsylvania County and provide high-quality jobs in our region. Having yet another proven employer choose to locate in Pittsylvania County is a testament to the quality of our workforce and business environment.”

The Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission is committed to bringing jobs and investment to the regions we serve. Attracting top employers, like Walraven, is a clear indication that, working together with our local and regional partners, the Commission is accomplishing that goal.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
6/3/2021

Contact: Jordan Butler
Telephone: 804-786-7692
Cell: 757-692-0878
Email: jbutler@revitalizeva.org
Website: www.revitalizeva.org

TOBACCO REGION REVITALIZATION COMMISSION HOLDS MAY MEETING

Commission Approves 17 Funding Requests

Richmond, VA – The Virginia Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission met electronically on Thursday, May 27th. The Commission acted on 17 funding requests including projects that will support Virginia’s livestock industry, improve the region’s ability to attract top employers by increasing the number of shovel ready sites available and expand broadband access.

Tobacco Commission Chairman, Edward Owens said, “As we start the process of recovering from what has been a challenging year, the efforts of the Tobacco Commission to stimulate economic growth and opportunity in Southern and Southwest Virginia will be more important than ever. I am proud of the work that the committees and the commission accomplished today. There is much work to be done but I am confident that as we continue to work with our local and regional partners we will positively impact those who live and work in rural Virginia.”

Tobacco Commission Executive Director, Evan Feinman added, “This meeting was a great example of how critically important the Commission is to supporting every aspect of economic growth and workforce development. Everything from cattle farming to tourism to workforce development projects are being supported by the Commission and they’ll all bring jobs and investment to Southern and Southwest Virginia. I am proud of the work we do and look forward to continuing to work with the Commission and our partners moving forward.”

The Commission gave final approval for 17 funding requests totaling $4,627,5037 in grants and loans. The total funds to be disbursed break down as follows: $2,587,628 for Southern Virginia projects and $2,039,875 for Southwest Virginia projects. The individual approved requests ranged in size from $9,000 to $880,643.

Additionally, the Commission approved offering as much as $31,989,000 in Tobacco Region Opportunity Fund (TROF) grants and loans to attract large projects to the region. Some of these projects are in competition for the same location.

The Commission also adopted a new budget for the upcoming fiscal year.

The Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission is committed to developing a diverse economy in the regions we serve. The projects approved at this meeting will continue to build on that effort and will help Southern and Southwest Virginia grow and prosper for decades to come.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
6/01/2021

Contact: Jordan Butler
Telephone: 804-786-7692
Cell: 757-692-0878
Email: jbutler@revitalizeva.org
Website: www.revitalizeva.org