Overview
We have all heard the statistics. West Virginia entrepreneurs and innovators face significant hurdles to business creation. We struggle relative to neighboring states to attract investment for startups; rank 49 out of 50 among states in adults becoming entrepreneurs; placed 45th in terms of business births and patents per capita; and, we receive fewer venture capital investments, with limited funding available for early-stage ventures.
“Talent is equally distributed, opportunity is not.”
– Leila Janah, CEO – Sama Group
This maxim underlies the rationale for the formation of 3 Steps to StartUp. We are West Virginia’s first truly integrated, collaborative, and holistic initiative to assist technology and research-focused entrepreneurs in taking their business concept from notepad to marketplace.
Turning the Tide
To turn the tide, six West Virginia providers – Partner Community Capital, The Center For Rural Health Development, Wyoming County EDA, Regional Economic Development Partnership, Woodlands Development & Lending, and West Virginia Jobs Investment Trust, have partnered together under the WV Capital Access Program.
Step 1: Education
We offer education and awareness activities online. Our online services are blogs, videos, and podcasts that give WV businesses the information they need to grow. Our online events will reach WV influencers and innovators, creating a rich pipeline of WV entrepreneurs and small businesses seeking start-up growth opportunities.
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Step 2: Technical Assistance
Everyone needs assistance and coaching. We have the ability to connect you with resources that can move your company to the next level. We also offer free resources! We provide assistance to WV Capital Access Program Applicants through Accounting, Financial, and Legal Services.
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Step 3: Funding
Mountain State small businesses now have a source of capital through the West Virginia Capital Access Program (WVCAP). WVCAP is designed to assist credit-worthy companies that may not fit traditional lending models.
Learn moreThe program acts as a virtual business incubator – an entrepreneur’s toolbox with a structured modular map for moving a concept forward.
