News & Stories

The biotechnology business is booming in Franklin County and the surrounding region. Southwest Virginia is fast being recognized around the Commonwealth as a hub for biotechnology innovation. In fact, new laboratories are under construction in Blacksburg and Roanoke to accommodate a growing number of biotechnology startups headquartered in the Blue Ridge. These developments are projected to create 250 new jobs over the next five years.

New jobs mean new opportunities and one local program is working hard to prepare the next generation of workers for success. Anticipating the need for a highly-trained workforce, Virginia Western Community College has launched initiatives to educate new grads for a STEM career right in their own backyard.

The biotechnology business is booming in Franklin County and the surrounding region. Southwest Virginia is fast being recognized around the Commonwealth as a hub for biotechnology innovation. In fact, new laboratories are under construction in Blacksburg and Roanoke to accommodate a growing number of biotechnology startups headquartered in the Blue Ridge. These developments are projected to create 250 new jobs over the next five years.

New jobs mean new opportunities and one local program is working hard to prepare the next generation of workers for success. Anticipating the need for a highly-trained workforce, Virginia Western Community College has launched initiatives to educate new grads for a STEM career right in their own backyard.

Franklin County Director of Economic Development Beth Simms is on a mission to ensure that you know all the ways this area shines. 

Bright spots in business. Bright spots in livability. Bright ideas that will propel this area forward. 

In honor of Economic Development Week – May 9-13, 2022 – let’s get to know Simms a little better.