Virginia Tech’s Center for Geospatial Information Technology (CGIT) Powers the Launch of the Rural Virginia Opportunity Dashboard

WISE, Va. — May 22, 2025
The Virginia Rural Center officially launched the Rural Virginia Opportunity Dashboard at the Tenth Annual Southwest Virginia Economic Forum, held at the University of Virginia’s College at Wise — a project proudly developed in partnership with Virginia Tech’s Center for Geospatial Information Technology (CGIT).

Built and designed by CGIT researchers and developers, the Rural Virginia Opportunity Dashboard provides a first-of-its-kind, interactive data platform that empowers localities across the Commonwealth to visualize, compare, and act on key metrics related to rural vitality. The dashboard combines data on education, housing, healthcare, business, workforce, and broadband access into a single, easy-to-use interface that supports data-driven decision-making at every level.

A Collaborative Effort for Rural Innovation

The dashboard was created through collaboration between CGIT at Virginia Tech and the Virginia Rural Center, reflecting a powerful partnership between higher education, public service, and local leadership.

“The Rural Virginia Opportunity Dashboard was built with and for our communities,” said Kristie Proctor, Executive Director of the Virginia Rural Center. “It brings together critical data and resources in one place, giving leaders the insights they need to plan for the future and make a real difference locally.”

Key Features

  • Interactive Mapping: Explore community assets, economic indicators, and infrastructure in real time.

  • Rural Resource Index: Search and filter funding opportunities at local, state, and federal levels.

  • Data Visualization Tools: Compare metrics and download reports to support grant writing, strategic planning, and regional collaboration.

Why It Matters

For rural communities facing challenges of access, infrastructure, and growth, the dashboard provides more than data — it provides direction. By visualizing opportunities and disparities side by side, leaders can better target investments and foster collaboration across regions.

The Rural Virginia Opportunity Dashboard underscores CGIT’s mission to leverage geospatial technology, data science, and user-centered design to serve the Commonwealth and beyond.

Explore the tool at www.cfrv.org/rvod