Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.

Today is April 7, 2026.

#1 – From WV GAZETTE-MAIL - WV teams contribute to NASA's Artemis II mission

West Virginia is playing a role in one of the most significant space missions in decades as teams contribute to NASA's Artemis II mission, which will send astronauts around the moon.

At the NASA Katherine Johnson Independent Verification and Validation Facility in Fairmont, engineers are responsible for testing critical mission software to ensure safety and performance. The mission will take astronauts more than 230,000 miles from Earth, marking the first time humans have traveled beyond low Earth orbit in over 50 years.

Leaders say West Virginia's involvement highlights the state's growing presence in high-tech industries and national innovation efforts.

Read more: https://www.wvgazettemail.com/business/from-hills-to-heavens-wv-teams-advance-nasa-s-artemis-ii-mission-to-the-moon/article_5757bdc7-c57a-4ecd-8cac-a71e38e69ab7.html

#2 – From WV PRESS ASSOCIATION - Development partner recognized for regional impact

The New River Gorge Regional Development Authority has named Dudding Commercial Development LLC as its 2025 Development Partner of the Year, recognizing the company's contributions to economic growth in the region.

The award highlights efforts to support business expansion, community development, and investment in southern West Virginia. Leaders say partnerships like this are key to building long-term economic momentum and strengthening local communities.

Read more: https://wvpress.org/wvpa-sharing/nrgrda-awards-dudding-commercial-development-llc-as-2025-development-partner-of-the-year/

#3 – From WV NEWS - Small business leaders honored statewide

West Virginia small business leaders will be recognized during National Small Business Week with a local awards luncheon scheduled for May 6 in Fairmont celebrating their impact on local economies and communities.

The annual recognition highlights entrepreneurs who are creating jobs, driving innovation, and helping shape the future of the state's economy. Officials say small businesses remain a cornerstone of West Virginia's growth and resilience.

Read more: https://www.wvnews.com/news/wvnews/west-virginia-small-business-leaders-to-be-honored-during-national-small-business-week-events/article_5c428c49-9a35-4b26-91b8-c7d298e6e76c.html

Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty, and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.

That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.