Virginia's Gateway Region

04/02/2026

Virginia’s Gateway Region was well represented in last week for the Virginia Economic Developers Association Spring Conference.

Our team joined partners from across the Commonwealth to share ideas, strengthen connections and keep moving Virginia forward. From site readiness and workforce to infrastructure and innovation, it’s all about ex*****on – and delivering results for our communities.

We were especially glad to hear from The Honorable Carrie Chenery, Virginia’s Secretary of Commerce and Trade, and her vision as the state competes nationally and globally.

As we look ahead to America’s 250th birthday, gatherings like this remind us that Virginia’s next chapter is being written right now – together. 🇺🇸

Our David Leonard and comms consultant Jill Vaughan were excited to connect with Shanetta Beck, Emporia; Natalie Slate, Greensville County; Morgan Ingram and Stacey English, Dinwiddie County; and Charles Bennett and Kyle English, Hopwell.

04/01/2026

That “secret sauce” hits a little different when it comes with 80 years of history. 🍖

After nearly three years, King’s Barbecue is back – and Petersburg showed up BIG to welcome a local legend home. Lines, smiles and plenty of support for a place that’s always been more than just a restaurant.

A true community staple returns… and the region is stronger for it.

King's Barbecue in Petersburg reopened to massive crowds Thursday morning, nearly three years after the 80-year-old restaurant closed its doors.

03/31/2026

Our VGR team gathered at Good Ship Brewery & Eatery in Hopewell to wish Tom Scott all the best as he heads north to begin a new chapter with the Fredericksburg Regional Alliance at University of Mary Washington on April 1.

We’re grateful for the countless miles Tom logged — across the country and around the globe — sharing the story of Virginia’s Gateway Region. His leadership has helped build a strong foundation for what’s ahead.

Wishing you great success, Tom. We know our paths will cross again.

03/26/2026

Congratulations to the recipients of our 2025 Annual Report artwork, created by photographer Steve Gay (far right)!

During our Annual Meeting last week, VGR's Keith Boswell presented copies of “Making Things and Moving Things” to:

• Brenda Ebron-Bonner, Dinwiddie County, VA Board of Supervisors
• Tanya Battle, C&F Bank
• Gina Slaunwhite, Columbia Gas of Virginia
• Dana Newcomer, CCWA Training
• Bruce Brockwell, First Bank

We’re grateful for your partnership - and to everyone who joined us for a great evening at the Petersburg Public Library.

03/25/2026

Another opportunity. More pathways. Real momentum.

A new session of Dealer School at Richard Bland College is opening doors to careers connected to Live Casino & Hotel Virginia – and VGR’s workforce team is actively sharing this opportunity across our network to help it grow.

That’s how we build success: preparing local talent, supporting new industries and driving investment back into our communities.

Strong earning potential through tips makes this a path worth exploring.

📍 Classes begin April 6

Learn more: https://www.livech.com/virginia/careers/dealer-school

Bet on your future with an exciting new career as a blackjack dealer with the potential to earn up to $50,000 in wages and tips! Attend a free information session today.

03/24/2026

This is what momentum looks like.

Virginia’s Gateway Region is on the move - and our 2025 Annual Report, "Making Things and Moving Things," captures a year of real progress, real wins and real partnership.

Inside the report:
• Deal of the Year
• Supporting the businesses already here
• Big milestones across the region
• New, innovative resources for our communities
• Partnerships that keep it all moving forward

Take a look at what we’re building together:
📘 https://ow.ly/rcZ850YxP0e

03/20/2026

As America approaches its 250th birthday, we’re reminded that Virginia — and Southside communities like Petersburg — helped shape the nation’s founding, from supply routes that sustained the Revolution to moments that changed its course.

That spirit of resilience and reinvention still defines Virginia’s Gateway Region today.

At our Annual Meeting last week, Keith Boswell shared how VGR is building on that legacy with a clear strategy to drive growth, attract investment and create opportunity across our communities.

Read how we’re writing our next chapter:
🔗 https://ow.ly/F9wp50Ywv4C

03/18/2026

A great evening at our Annual Meeting at the Petersburg Public Library last week!

Keith Boswell shared how Virginia’s Gateway Region is building on its momentum with a focused strategy to drive growth, investment and opportunity across our communities. We'll be sharing more in days ahead, but here's a sneak peek at some event photos.

Thank you to everyone who joined us. We’re excited for what’s ahead.

03/16/2026

Virginia’s life sciences ecosystem continues to gain momentum — and the region stands tall as a powerful hub.

This map from the Virginia Economic Development Partnership illustrates the depth of the state's growing life sciences network, with companies, research institutions, and innovation centers spanning the state.

Right here in Virginia’s Gateway Region, the pharmaceutical cluster in Petersburg and the surrounding area is helping lead that growth. Investments from Phlow Corporation, Civica Rx and Novo Nordisk are strengthening domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing and building a resilient supply chain for critical medicines.

Together, these companies are doing more than creating jobs. They are helping anchor a life sciences ecosystem that connects research, manufacturing and talent across Virginia. It’s an exciting moment for the state's economic development progress, and we’re proud to see the Gateway Region playing such an important role.

📊 Virginia Economic Development Partnership
👏 H/T to VEDP’s Jason El Koubi for highlighting this powerful snapshot of Virginia’s innovation economy.

03/13/2026

What makes a region competitive for business investment today? Readiness.

In our March newsletter, learn how Virginia’s Gateway Region is positioned with development-ready sites, strong infrastructure, workforce partnerships and regional collaboration.

This issue also highlights:
• SelectUSA outreach in Europe
• Opportunities in Dinwiddie and Sussex
• Ag-tech innovation at Indoor Ag-Con
• Partnerships with Fort Lee

Read the full newsletter: https://ow.ly/9Fpe50Yt47c

03/12/2026

The stage is set at the Petersburg Public Library. Looking forward to seeing everyone soon for the Virginia’s Gateway Region Annual Meeting.

Let’s fuel our momentum.

03/10/2026

We’re getting ready.

This Thursday, leaders from across Virginia’s Gateway Region will gather for our Annual Meeting – a chance to celebrate the momentum happening across our communities and look ahead to what’s next for economic growth in the region.

From new investment to workforce partnerships and global outreach, there’s a lot to talk about. We look forward to seeing our partners, investors and regional leaders soon.