The following appeared in the Tuesday, Nov 17 edition of the NRV Current

Not everyone can work for their local government. Not everyone can work for institutions of higher learning. And not everyone can work in the health profession. More companies must be created in the private sector and those companies must grow and prosper.

Our region benefits from unique circumstances yielding a higher percentage than normal of these three sectors of jobs. First, over a century ago, the Morrill Land Grant Act of 1862 selected our region as a place to create one of its land-grant institutions – Virginia Tech. Second, the Commonwealth of Virginia’s independent cities and counties structure of government creates substantially more government jobs than other states. Third, as a pure result of population growth and the age of the population, more health care jobs have emerged in recent years. All are good, needed and necessary, but it’s not enough. All regional economies in the U.S. have their share of these jobs.

Are we forgetting about the sector that drives the rest? Yes, the private sector is in the closet. This sector consists of risk-taking entrepreneurs starting businesses, creating wealth, spurring the other sectors, and it’s what has created American prosperity.

Are enough attention, support and assistance given to them?  No, but fortunately, we have three people and organizations who are leading efforts to grow this fourth leg of the region’s economic stool.

Professor Alan Abrahams in the Pamplin College of Business and his students have created the Online Business Guidebook – a free guide for web entrepreneurs. In my 15 years associated with the Pamplin College of Business. Abrahams, has done more to promote entrepreneurship in the region and to students than anyone else in the business school.

Jim Flowers, the Director of VT Knowledge Works has created virtual and brick and mortar programs to enhance the success of new businesses. His innovation and creativity is contagious and is being recognized internationally.

Cory Donovan, Executive Director of the NCTC, is assisting and aiding technology companies with their growth and exposure by creating a fertile soil for them to emerge and compete globally right here in the NRV. Donovan has taken this responsibility personally to be the go-to resource for economic development initiatives and programs in the region.

These three people should be recognized and supported for the work they are doing for all of us. Thank you!

Not everyone will work in the private sector, but everyone can help it grow. It’s too important to ignore. Support and assist these organizations to grow and sustain our region.