November 2023 BizNews

Crystal Spring Tower

Riverdale

The Economic Development Authority

Makes Substantial Investments into the City of Roanoke

The Economic Development Authority (EDA) is a vital partner of the City of Roanoke, working in conjunction with the Department of Economic Development. The EDA is a seven member Board appointed by City Council for the purpose of business expansion and attraction initiatives. Unlike government entities in the state of Virginia, the EDA has the ability to facilitate economic development activities through performance agreements, taxable and tax-exempt bonds, and other incentives, including Enterprise Zone grants. The EDA partnered on several notable projects including Crystal Spring Tower and Riverdale (pictured above).

Advancing Oncology InnoVAtion QuickFire Challenge

Johnson & Johnson Innovation, in collaboration with Carilion Clinic Innovation, Verge Alliance (with support from City of Roanoke), and Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center (VTCRC), recently launched the Advancing Oncology InnoVAtion QuickFire Challenge. We are proud to share that Bacchus Therapeutics, Luminary Therapeutics, QurCan Therapeutics Inc., have been selected as the awardees! Their innovative solutions are truly inspiring and have the potential to make a significant difference in the lives of many oncology patients across the globe. This challenge continues to foster the flourishing Virginia innovation ecosystem.

Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine Earns National Award for Commitment to Diversity

INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine has awarded VTCSOM the Health

Professions Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award for the sixth straight year. The HEED Award recognizes U.S. health colleges and universities that demonstrate an outstanding commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Learn More

Business Spotlight

Virtues Day Spa Opens in Northwest Roanoke

Cox Communications Celebrates New Roanoke Investment

Roanoke-based Restaurant, Cuban Island, Named

Top 25 Cuban Restaurant in the US

Congratulations to Cuban Island, located on Williamson Road, on

being recognized for their excellent Cuban fare. Enjoy Travel noted, "In

terms of Cuban classics like flan, ropa vieja and the humble Cubano, Cuban

Island Restaurant is a cut above the rest. This classic Cuban eatery is a

favorite for its massive servings, homestyle plates and dedication to

authentic Cuban fare. Load up on some beef empanadas or chow down on the fried pork. Either way, you’ll be wanting seconds."

Events

We’re celebrating 5 startup companies that will be graduating RAMP’s fall 2023 cohort at Demo Day in December. This annual celebration is paired with RBTC’s holiday social Tech the Halls – an annual celebration to toast a successful year of innovation while welcoming five new companies into the regional ecosystem. Join the region’s innovation community for Demo Day and Tech the Halls on Wednesday, December 6th, at 5PM. The event is free to attend, but registration is required.

Mastering Financial & Operational Challenges with Freedom First Credit Union and Her Idea Collective

Calling all business owners: Join Freedom First Credit Union and Her Idea Collective for a FREE livestream on November 8th at 11 AM EST. We'll be diving into mastering financial and operational challenges so you can successfully grow your business. All (current and future) business owners, entrepreneurs, and big dreamers are welcome to join. Don't miss out - join us on LinkedIn for this valuable discussion!