Virginia's Gateway Region

12/02/2025

We were proud to join AdvanSix Plant Nutrients and Rebuilding Together Richmond last month to support a Hopewell homeowner with essential repairs that improve safety and accessibility. Community partnership is at the heart of regional growth — and we’re glad to be part of it.

11/29/2025

In our industry, we’re always working to strengthen our region’s economic base — and that means a mix of businesses both large and small. 💼✨

Small businesses are the backbone of our communities, employing nearly half of America’s workforce. Today and throughout the holiday season, choose to shop local, dine local, and support the entrepreneurs who keep our region vibrant. 🛍️🍽️

And let’s keep that support going all year long. 🤝

11/27/2025

As we celebrate Thanksgiving, we’re also celebrating a year of real momentum across our region.
🍂✨ Together with our partners, businesses, and community leaders, we’ve strengthened our local economy – helping existing companies grow and welcoming new industry to our communities. 🤝🏗️

Thank you for the collaboration that fuels our progress. Wishing you and your families a wonderful and restful Thanksgiving! 🦃🌟

11/26/2025

👏 Big congratulations to Service Center Metals for taking first place in the Primary Metal Industries category at the 2025 Virginia Manufacturing Cup! ⚙️🏆

Hosted by the Virginia Manufacturers Association, the annual competition celebrates the "Coolest Thing Made in Virginia" – and this year, SCM’s Lightning Rod stood out among the best. Announced at the Virginia Manufacturing Gala earlier this month, this recognition showcases the innovation and craftsmanship happening right here in Prince George County.

We’re proud to see a local manufacturer shine on a statewide stage!

📸 Service Center Metals

11/25/2025

While many of you are planning your Turkey Day menus, our team at VGR is already dreaming about our first orders when the legendary King’s Barbecue reopens in next year. 🔥🍽️

Congrats to the Keeler family for bringing back this 80-year local institution – and a beloved piece of our region’s history.

Read more ➡️ https://www.wtvr.com/news/local-news/kings-bbq-returns-petersburg-nov-20-2025

For nearly 80 years, King's Barbecue was considered a Petersburg institution, known not just for its food but as a place to meet friends and talk business.

11/21/2025

We’re seeing real momentum across the region this fall — from cranes on the skyline to groundbreaking events in life sciences, clean energy and logistics. And our November newsletter shares more details:
🔹 Highlights from our presence at the global pharmaceutical manufacturing conference and how that opens doors for the region.
🔹 A profile of ' Leonardo Caballero and how he's working collaboratively to advance infrastructure and support future growth.
🔹 A look at our Biotech & Beer Business Council rooftop gathering at the Hotel Petersburg, Tapestry Collection by Hilton— over 100 attendees strong.

📖 Read the full newsletter here: https://ow.ly/wKCM50XuSP4

11/20/2025

🎥 The RBC Dealer Institute at Richard Bland College is proving a core principle of economic development: prepare workers before the jobs arrive.

Launched this fall with Live Casino & Hotel Virginia, the 12-week program is training about 200 local residents in blackjack, with roulette and baccarat on the way. Trainees build skills in customer service, game integrity, industry regulations and responsible gaming — exactly what the new casino workforce will need.

RBC’s innovative approach is creating real pathways into high-growth careers as Live! Casino & Hotel Virginia prepares to open a temporary casino in early 2026.

📹 Watch a behind-the-scenes look at the RBC Dealer Institute.

https://youtu.be/9b5gQHwL5q0?si=jck8VORmQGEtoL_U

11/18/2025

🧱 Breaking ground and building the future!

Last week, the LEGO Group officially broke ground on its 2-million-square-foot regional distribution center in Prince George County, Va., right here in the Gateway Region!

With an investment of more than $360 million and the creation of 300+ new jobs, this facility will strengthen LEGO’s global supply chain while fueling economic opportunity in our community. It will operate alongside the new manufacturing plant underway in nearby Chesterfield County.

“Our regional distribution center will strengthen our supply chain network across the Americas, helping us bring LEGO play to more fans and retail partners efficiently and reliably," said Cindy Sikora, LEGO's vice president of Supply Chain Operations, Americas."We are grateful for the ongoing collaboration we have had with partners across the Commonwealth of Virginia who support our ambition to build this distribution center.”

Welcome to Prince George County, LEGO! 🧱🎉

11/14/2025

Big news for Dinwiddie County, VA and the entire Gateway Region last week! 🎉

Dominion Energy has officially opened its new High Voltage Lab at the Locks Campus. This cutting-edge facility will stress test next-generation grid technology, strengthen reliability and cybersecurity, and accelerate innovation for Virginia’s energy future.

The project brings 150 new skilled jobs to the region and deepens Dominion’s partnerships with universities and workforce training programs. It’s another strong signal that advanced tech and engineering talent are growing right here in . ⚡

VGR is proud to see this level of investment and job creation in our region!

11/12/2025

Investors make the mission possible.

During a recent morning at Brew and Blossom Co in , Will Clements of BSV, The Bank of Southside Virginia sat down with VGR's Keith Boswell to talk about how long-term investment strengthens our communities, creates opportunities and shapes the future of the region.

From the bank’s 120-year legacy to the continued growth of VGR's expanded footprint, this conversation highlights how working together accelerates progress.

Read the full conversation: https://ow.ly/LP0u50XpK6Y

11/11/2025

Today, and every day, we honor those who serve. With U.S. Army Fort Lee calling our region home, we are grateful for the veterans and military families who strengthen our communities and protect our nation. Thank you for your service. 🇺🇸

11/07/2025

VGR was on the road this week to meet with our partners at the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP). The visit continued our quarterly series aimed at educating VEDP staff on the progress, momentum and available sites across our region.

Brian Moore of Petersburg and Natalie Slate of Greensville County shared updates and answered many great questions. Collaboration like this keeps our region moving forward!