Virginia welcomes Microporous with $1.35 billion investment in Pittsylvania County
Danville, Virginia – Microporous LLC, a leading manufacturer of battery separators, has announced a transformative $1.35 billion investment in Pittsylvania County, Virginia. The company will develop a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility at the Southern Virginia Megasite, creating over 2,000 new jobs and solidifying the region’s status as a hub for advanced manufacturing. This historic investment positions Virginia at the forefront of the rapidly expanding battery technology industry.
A Historic Commitment to Advanced Manufacturing
Governor Glenn Youngkin emphasized the importance of this project in strengthening Virginia’s economy, stating, “This historic $1.35 billion investment by Microporous in Pittsylvania County marks a new chapter in Virginia’s incredible advanced manufacturing story.” The project will unfold in two phases, each featuring a 500,000-square-foot facility, with Lot 2 of the Megasite considered for future expansion.
Virginia successfully competed with North Carolina for this project, which highlights the state’s strategic advantages, including a skilled workforce, robust infrastructure, and a commitment to fostering innovative industries.
Building a Foundation for Economic Growth
Microporous CEO John Reeves highlighted the company’s dedication to the community and workforce development, saying, “Microporous is dedicated to developing the local workforce, investing in the community to improve opportunities for the local economy, and creating a better tomorrow for everyone.” The facilities will specialize in producing advanced battery separators, including those for lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles, energy storage systems, and consumer electronics.
The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) and local entities, including the Danville-Pittsylvania County Regional Industrial Facility Authority, collaborated to secure this project. Financial support includes up to $60.6 million from the General Assembly’s Major Employment and Investment Project Approval Commission (MEI Commission) and $25 million in low-interest financing from the Virginia Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission to enhance natural gas service.
Local and Federal Leaders Applaud the Project
State and federal leaders have praised the investment’s potential to transform the region. U.S. Senator Mark Warner, who helped secure a $100 million federal grant through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, remarked, “This new manufacturing facility will not only create over 2,000 good-paying jobs but will also help to continue to position Virginia as the advanced manufacturing hub of the United States.”
Governor Youngkin’s administration has worked to tie economic development initiatives with workforce training programs, including the Virginia Talent Accelerator Program. This nationally ranked program will support Microporous by offering recruitment and training services tailored to the company’s needs.
A Vision for the Future
The investment marks a milestone for Pittsylvania County and Southern Virginia, bringing advanced technology, economic revitalization, and new opportunities to the region. The project sets a precedent for integrating business growth with community development and environmental sustainability.
Delegate Danny Marshall credited decades of planning, stating, “This announcement is a testament to the kinds of generationally impactful projects we can bring to Southern Virginia when we all work together.”
A Transformative Path Forward
The Microporous project at the Southern Virginia Megasite symbolizes Virginia’s dedication to fostering innovation and supporting long-term economic growth. By creating jobs, strengthening infrastructure, and investing in the workforce, this initiative ensures a bright future for the region and positions Virginia as a leader in the advanced manufacturing and battery technology industries.
