About Us

Focus on Economic Opportunity

Established in 1968, the City of Salem, Virginia, has a rich history of economic growth, evolving from a small frontier settlement in the 19th century into a thriving hub for business and industry. 

Strategically located in the Roanoke Valley, Salem has long benefited from access to major transportation routes--including railroads and highways--which have fueled commerce and trade. The establishment of Roanoke College, a key institution in the region, helped attract talent and innovation. 

Today, Salem continues to foster a pro-business environment with strategic investments in infrastructure, workforce development, and community partnerships. With a strong local economy, a skilled workforce, and a commitment to sustainable growth, Salem remains an ideal location for businesses to start, expand, and thrive.

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PARKWAY BREWING COMPANY

Mission

Cultivate, preserve, and attract progressive and complementary business investment comprising high-quality jobs while enriching the City of Salem’s low-cost, pro-business environment and community’s quality of life.

Vision

To be an acclaimed Economic Development Practice with innovative and bold leadership fostering creative and collaborative initiatives exceeding global business climate expectations.  

TARGET INDUSTRIES

Our strategic plan focuses on nurturing key sectors including: manufacturing, health sciences, technology, and education. Explore our Strategic Plan for a detailed overview. 

https://www.salemva.gov/DocumentCenter/View/5364/Salem-Economic-Development-Strategic-Plan-2023-2028

  • Future-Ready Manufacturing (Advanced Manufacturing)
  • Life Sciences
  • IT / Finance / Back Office
  • Unique Focused Retail
  • Entrepreneurial Enterprise

Meet the Team

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Tommy Miller

Economic Development Director

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Wayne Adkins

Business Outreach Coordinator

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Rebecca Marsh

Economic Development Specialist

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Discover Salem

Mural

Historic Main Street

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The downtown center is home to antique shops, restaurants, breweries, and includes historic landmarks. And it's all just a short walk away. 

Shop

Antique & Boutique Shopping

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Salem is the oldest settlement in the Roanoke Region, making it a must-visit location for those exploring the region. Stop in for antiques, boutique shopping, or for a warm or cold brew. 

Civic Center

Salem Civic Center

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The Salem Civic Center, the hub of the James E. Taliaferro Sports and Entertainment Complex, became a part of Salem’s landscape in October 1967. For more than 50 years, the 7,000-seat facility has welcomed a who’s who of entertainment’s brightest stars to its stage, including the likes of Johnny Cash, Kenny Chesney, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Def Leppard, and James Brown.

Red Sox

Minor League Baseball

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Salem has a rich baseball culture and is home to the RidgeYaks, a Single-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox. Founded in 1968, the team is in the Northern Division of the Carolina League and owned by Diamond Baseball Holdings. 

Farmers Market

Salem Farmers Market

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The Salem Farmers Market has been in downtown Salem since 1992. The venue is home to weekly produce vendors and artisans and hosts special events throughout the year. 

College

Roanoke College

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Roanoke College is an independent, co-educational liberal arts college. Founded in 1842, it is the second-oldest Lutheran-related college in America.

Tennis

Outdoor Assets & Events

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From pickleball to golf or biking or hiking, there's so much to do outside in Salem. Parks & Recreation manages city facilities and programs, including youth and adults sports and special sporting events.