Happy West Virginia Day: How WV Small Businesses Are Making Their Mark
On June 20th, we celebrate West Virginia Day – a day to reflect on the state’s history, culture, and achievements. Despite the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, West Virginia has much to be proud of. In this blog post, we will explore some of the ways in which our state’s small businesses have thrived in the face of adversity, and the role that entrepreneurialism and innovation have played in driving growth and prosperity. In this blog, you’ll learn: The impact of COVID-19 on small businesses in the US and West Virginia How West Virginia’s small businesses have been[...]
WVCAP Client Spotlight: Endolumik
West Virginia has a thriving startup scene, with several companies making groundbreaking discoveries and bringing innovative products to the market. One of these companies is Endolumik, a Morgantown-based surgical device company. Companies like Endolumik are succeeding in part thanks to new grants and funding opportunities offered by the West Virginia Capital Access Program (WVCAP) and associated programs that administer its grants. In this blog, you’ll learn: What the West Virginia Capital Access Program is and how it helps small businesses How strategic partnerships with economic development organizations like the West Virginia Jobs Investment Trust help small businesses achieve their[...]
Going Solo: How To Be A Solopreneur That Actually Gets Things Done
In recent years, more and more people have opted to become self-employed and work as solopreneurs. While self-employment offers many advantages, it also presents unique challenges that can impact a solopreneur’s ability to get things done. In this article, we will explore the impact of being a solopreneur on productivity, efficiency, time management, and some WV resources for solo entrepreneurs. In this blog, you’ll learn: The rise of self-employment and the advantages it offers The challenges faced by solopreneurs The impact of being a solopreneur on productivity and efficiency and how to make the best use of your valuable time[...]
WVCAP Client Spotlight: Americarbon Enterprises, LLC
West Virginia Jobs Investment Trust (WVJIT), in partnership with C.C. Dickinson Family Holdings and PointSquared Ventures, has announced the closing of initial capital investment into AmeriCarbon Enterprises, LLC. Morgantown-based AmeriCarbon has developed a patented and proprietary Eco-PitchTM chemical process that produces a tailored carbon pitch material. In this blog, you’ll learn: What the West Virginia Capital Access Program is and how it helps small businesses How strategic partnerships with economic development organizations like the West Virginia Jobs Investment Trust help small businesses achieve their goals How seed investments, like the one led by the West Virginia Jobs Investment Trust for[...]
Coe’s Country Store: A Study in Rural Collaboration
On a sparkling day at the tail end of winter Woodlands Development & Lending joined Nicole Coe and a host of her family and supporters to cut the ribbon on her new business: Coe’s Country Store, in French Creek, WV in Upshur County. Coe’s Country Store is a convenience store designed to meet the needs of a remote, rural area. The large, clean building, nestled 24 miles south of the county seat, Buckhannon, stocks all the expected snack and drink favorites but also features a rotating selection of locally made favorites like BBQ, hot dogs, biscuits & gravy, and even fresh[...]
Why Businesses Should Tackle the Hard Tasks (That Make an Impact) Instead of the Easy Ones
As the old saying goes, “nothing worth having comes easy.” In the world of business, this couldn’t be more true. It’s often the hardest tasks that make the biggest impact on a company’s success. However, it can be easy to fall into the trap of working on the easy tasks and avoiding the harder, more impactful ones. In this blog post, we’ll explore why it’s important for businesses to tackle hard tasks, and we’ll offer some tips on staying on track and prioritizing the tasks that will have the greatest impact. In this blog, you’ll learn: Explanation of why easy[...]
National Old Stuff Day: What Kind Of Old Stuff Are You Holding Onto In Your Business?
Every year, on March 2nd, we celebrate National Old Stuff Day. This day is dedicated to the appreciation and reflection of the things we hold onto from our past, whether physical items, memories, or old practices. As a business owner, it’s essential to consider the old stuff you have accumulated over the years and whether it’s still serving a purpose in your business. This blog will discuss the types of old stuff you may be holding onto and what you can do about it. In this blog, you’ll learn: The importance of National Old Stuff Day for entrepreneurs and startups[...]
March is Women’s History Month: Celebrating Women and Businesses That Changed a Generation
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, it’s worth exploring the rich history of female entrepreneurship in West Virginia and how West Virginian female-owned businesses are making a difference. From the strong sense of community support to the numerous resources and opportunities available to women entrepreneurs, this region has all the ingredients for success. In this blog, we will examine the factors that contribute to the success of West Virginian female-owned businesses and why it’s important to acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of women in business. In this blog, you’ll learn: The significance of Women’s History Month and its celebration[...]
WVCAP Client Spotlight: Buzz Foods.
Buzz Foods is a locally-owned and operated business in Charleston, WV that has been providing world-class meat and seafood to chefs in hotels, resorts, and other establishments since 1938. The company is currently owned and operated by Dickinson Gould, who is the 3rd generation to own and operate the business. With a reputation for providing honest food, advice, and service, Buzz Foods is a trusted name in the industry. In this blog, you’ll learn: How West Virginia Capital Access Program helps small businesses and startups looking to get funded How WVCAP client Buzz Foods used the Collateral Support program to[...]
Groundhog Day: How To Avoid Repetition & Take Action To Meet Your Business Goals
The movie Groundhog Day tells the story of a weatherman who is stuck in a time loop, reliving the same day over and over again. While the movie is a comedy, repetition, and stagnation can be too real for many business owners. Just like the weatherman in the movie, you can break out of the cycle and achieve your goals. This blog post will explore identifying signs of repetition and the importance of setting specific goals and taking action to meet your business goals. In this blog, you’ll learn: How you can identify signs of repetition in your business and[...]