July 1, 2026

Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center Connects with Southwest Virginia Business Leaders at Regional Networking Event

The Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center (VTCRC) continues to strengthen partnerships across the region through active engagement with the Southwest Virginia business community. Recently, Tanner Poore, Business Development Manager, and Heidi Angle, Marketing and Communications Manager, represented VTCRC at the annual Regional Networking Event at Salem Memorial Ballpark.

Co-hosted by the Roanoke Regional Chamber of Commerce, Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce, Salem-Roanoke County Chamber of Commerce, Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce, Botetourt County Chamber of Commerce, Vinton Area Chamber of Commerce, Roanoke Regional Home Builders Association, Roanoke Valley Association of REALTORS®, and the Greater Williamson Road Area Business Association, the event brought together business leaders, entrepreneurs, community partners, and economic development organizations from across Southwest Virginia for an afternoon of networking, collaboration, and relationship building.

The Regional Networking Event provides an opportunity for organizations throughout Virginia’s Blue Ridge to strengthen connections, exchange ideas, and explore partnerships that support business growth and regional economic development. While enjoying a day at the ballpark, attendees met with professionals representing industries and organizations from across the region.

Throughout the event, Tanner and Heidi connected with chamber leaders, business professionals, and regional partners to share how the Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center supports entrepreneurs, researchers, startups, and growing companies through collaborative spaces, business resources, and connections to Virginia Tech’s innovation ecosystem.

“Events like this are a great opportunity to strengthen relationships across the region,” said Tanner Poore. “When organizations come together, it creates new opportunities to connect businesses with the people, resources, and partnerships they need to grow.”

Collaboration is central to VTCRC’s mission. By participating in regional business networking events and working alongside economic development organizations throughout the New River Valley, Roanoke Valley, and greater Southwest Virginia, VTCRC continues to foster partnerships that accelerate innovation, support industry growth, and strengthen Virginia’s economy.

VTCRC appreciates the host organizations for bringing together the region’s business community and looks forward to continuing to build meaningful partnerships that advance innovation and economic opportunity across the Commonwealth.