May 2020 Newsletter

CEO Update

I am inspired by the partnerships I witness daily in the Gateway Region. In addition, we are seeing positive news arise from the economic situation. Local EDAs are awarding small businesses with grants to remain open. Restaurants are beginning to welcome patrons back to their patios and outdoor spaces. And the Gateway Region landed a major pharmaceutical project this week that will bring manufacturing ingredients for critical drugs back to the USA. We are including all the local media coverage on this deal because of its impact. If you have any questions or input, please do not hesitate to reach out to me at:  kboswell@gatewayregion.com  or (804) 732-8971.

Trump Administration Taps Startup to Build Nation's First Stockpile of Key Drugs

Read the full article here

Richmond Startup Company Awarded $354 Million Federal Contract to Make Ingredients for COVID-19 Drugs   Full story here 

New Richmond-based Pharma Startup with $350m in Funding Eyes Facility in Petersburg Full Story here

Trump Administration Chooses RVA Pharma Startup for $354m COVID-19 Contract   Full story here

VGR Local Communities and Chambers Join ChamberRVA in Small Business Relaunch Plan Businesses in the Gateway Region who make a commitment to make their establishments safe for both employees and patrons will get marketing support from VGR and its communities. Electronic and physical tool kits are being developed that include a website support center, “COVID Safe” signage and starter kits that include hand sanitizer, gloves, and masks. Businesses who are interested in participating will be able to pick up their “physical” tool kit at the former Sears store at Southpark Mall on May 27 th  and May 28 th  from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. There is no cost to the business. It is estimated that more than 3,000 small businesses in the Richmond-Petersburg MSA could participate in this effort.  For more information on the PPE Starter Toolkits, ForwardRVA and Forward Virginia, go to  www.forwardrva.com .

VGR VLOG #2: Downtown Hopewell In the second video of VGR's new vlog series featuring the Gateway Region's assets and quality of life, the revitalization of Downtown Hopewell is spotlighted. In addition to its importance to local industry, the City of Hopewell has experienced concentrated revitalization efforts in its vibrant downtown, bringing new recreation and business opportunities to the core of the 11-square-mile inland port community. Watch the latest video of the Gateway Region here  Be sure to like and subscribe!

More News Happening in VGR  Paper Making Business Endures Covid-19, Donates Masks to Dinwiddie County  Electric Cooperatives Step Up During Pandemic Surry Equipment Provides Tools with Warm Customer Service Nanny’s Celebrates Business Milestone During Inauspicious Time Business Spotlight- The Edwards Ham Shop

Show us Love on Social Media  Please follow VGR on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter (@VAGatewayRegion) to keep up with all the latest VGR happenings!

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Partner Spotlight

The Bank of Southside Virginia is a locally owned, full-service commercial bank. The bank attributes its success to high quality customer service, a forward-thinking atmosphere and a strong commitment to the communities and people it serves. BSV is one of the technological leaders in the area, but still maintains a personal touch with customers.