August 2024

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Promoting the region’s rich agricultural legacy is part of our integrated economic development strategy.

Update from the President & CEO: 

Friends of the Gateway Region,



In announcing Virginia once again was its Top State for Business, CNBC pointed out key ingredients that distinguished the leaders. What differentiated Virginia to land in the top spot was our education system and business environment that fosters corporate growth, from supportive regulations to operational infrastructures.


None of that happens without building effective relationships with lawmakers at every level.


On Sept. 4, we’re hosting a “meet and greet” with state and local representatives from our region. While the legislature doesn’t convene until January, opportunities like these allow us to identify issues where we need their early action and support to protect our state’s leadership position. In these months leading up to the General Assembly, our leaders set legislative priorities and develop budget proposals.


We encourage you to come and get to know your elected leaders. Ask questions and find out what’s on their minds. We’ve included details and a registration link below.


I’ll see you there.

Call Keith Boswell at: +1 (804) 732-8971 or Click for Email

Production Launched at Phlow Pharmaceutical Plant

After putting shovels in the Petersburg dirt two years ago, Phlow has started production at its pharmaceutical manufacturing plant. During a celebration last month, Gov. Glenn Youngkin unveiled the Campus for Advanced Manufacturing of Pharmaceuticals in the United States (CAMPUS), a new name for the area that houses Phlow, Civica and AMPAC Fine Chemicals. Joining at the on-site event were Jonathan Young, VSU; Keith Boswell, VGR; Eric Edwards, MD, PhD, Phlow; Tom Scott, VGR; and Rex Davis, VGR board chair.

CNBC Again Names Virginia as America’s Top State for Business

For the third time in five years, Virginia stands as CNBC’s Top State for Business. The business broadcast outlet cited our state’s strong education system and a regulatory environment that allows companies to grow.



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Photo Credit: Alliance for Building Better Medicine

Three Local Farmers Markets Earn State Gold Certification

The Hopewell Farmers Market, the River Street Market in Petersburg and the Surry County Farmers Market each earned gold certification this year from the Virginia Farmers Market Association. The designation honors markets for best practices in 11 categories. Having a vibrant network of local farmers enhances the quality of our communities.

VGR Builds Engagement with Business Council Meetings

Engaging with stakeholders is critical to ensuring alignment on vision - and sharing how they can help promote our region. Last month, our VGR team held a Business Council session in Waverly. Our discussion featured several important milestones: the Sussex Green Enterprise Park announcement, enhancements along Route 460, and the revitalization of Downtown Waverly. 


Special thanks to Waverly Mayor Angela McPhaul for hosting the event!

Register for Legislator ‘Meet & Greet’ on September 4

Your legislators want to hear about what is important to you, your community, your business, and your family. Join us at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 4, for a free networking session with local and state elected officials who represent all seven VGR communities. We’ll gather at the Keystone Truck & Tractor Museum, 880 W. Roslyn Road, in Colonial Heights. Please register by Aug. 29 to reserve your spot at the reception.


Register Here


More News Headlines from July

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