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

Today is Tuesday, March 25, 2025.

Are you a small business owner with a question that requires a quick response? The Small Business Association’s West Virginia Office is available every Friday at noon to provide answers--no appointment needed…the National Outdoor Recreation Workforce Consortium collaborates with academic institutions to develop a skilled workforce in the outdoor industry…and West Virginia’s diverse agricultural industry drives economic growth…on today’s daily304.

 

#1 – From US SBA – Whether it is business plan assistance, help finding a loan, or applying for the HUBZone program, the Small Business Administration can help provide the knowledge and expertise you need. Trust SBA’s West Virginia District Office to be your small business partner.

For everyday small business questions that require a quick response, the SBA hosts Small Business Quick Care. SBA experts are available at noon every Friday for virtual sessions or in-person visits at their Charleston or Clarksburg locations.

No appointment needed--just walk in, or visit the link below to sign up for a virtual session.

Learn more:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/small-business-quick-care-tickets-1259438066159?aff=oddtdtcreator

 

#2 – From OEDC – The $1.2 trillion outdoor recreation economy supports 5 million jobs across various sectors, from manufacturing and guiding to retail and conservation. However, the industry faces two key challenges: 

• A lack of clearly defined workforce development strategies that span different outdoor sector

• Limited collaboration between higher education and the outdoor industry to address workforce gaps. 

The National Outdoor Recreation Workforce Consortium aims to solve these issues. The Consortium is a partnership between Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORC) and The Brad and Alys Smith Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative at West Virginia University.

The Consortium welcomes additional academic institutions committed to developing a skilled and prepared outdoor workforce. For more information, contact the ORC.

Read more:

https://oedc.wvu.edu/programs/national-outdoor-recreation-workforce-consortium?utm_content=327283851&utm_medium=social&utm_source=linkedin&hss_channel=lcp-71496659

 

#3 – From WV DED – West Virginia’s agriculture industry consists of 22,787 farms generating nearly $948 million in 2022. Crop production, including nursery and greenhouse varieties, exceeded $232 million, while livestock, poultry, and related products like beef, pork, and dairy contributed almost $716 million.

The state’s diverse agricultural output, led by top commodities such as poultry, cattle, and calves, highlights its essential role in driving economic growth.

Visit West Virginia Economic Development online to learn more about the agriculture industry in #YesWV or to connect with one of our experienced consultants for assistance in site selection, business development or navigating local government regulations.

Learn more:

https://westvirginia.gov/industries/food-and-agriculture/

 

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.

 

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

Today is Monday, March 24, 2025.

A new program called Tourism Works aims to educate the state’s workforce to meet growing demands in WV’s leisure and hospitality sector…The WV Division of Forestry is on the hunt for big trees; do you have a big tree on your property? Nominate it for consideration in the Big Tree Registry…and travel through wild country and home to bald eagles on the Potomac Eagle scenic train…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV TOURISM – Last year the tourism industry in West Virginia recorded its highest-ever economic impact – $8.7 billion. The leisure and hospitality sectors already support over 70,000 jobs across the state, and 21,000 job openings are projected annually. 

The Tourism Works program plays a vital role in West Virginia’s economy by educating the state’s workforce in tourism-related fields, preparing for the substantial increase in job openings projected for the industry, and connecting students with viable career opportunities. 

The program, funded by a $5.1 million federal grant awarded to the West Virginia Department of Tourism, has three primary goals: Train Your Team, Educate Our Communities, and Shape Our Future.

Visit wvtourism.com/tourismworks to learn how you can get involved. 

Read more:

https://wvtourism.com/tourismworks/

 

#2 – From WOAY-TV – Do you have an exceptionally large tree on your property? The West Virginia Division of Forestry wants to know.

The West Virginia Big Tree Program is an effort to locate, measure and record the largest trees in the state. There are currently 91 species on the West Virginia Big Tree Register and the WVDOF would like to add more. 

Nominations are accepted and once verified by forestry personnel, new additions will be made. American Forests maintains a National Register of Big Trees from all 50 states that celebrate our American Giants.

To nominate a big tree or view a list of big trees located on public properties, visit wvforestry.com and click on Big Tree Program.

Read more:

https://woay.com/wv-division-of-forestry-in-search-of-big-trees/

 

#3 – From NEW YORK TIMES – In the 19th and 20th centuries, railroads revolutionized transportation in North America, permanently accelerating the pace of travel across the continent. Today, many of those railroad tracks host an assortment of historic excursion trains, inviting riders to slow down and enjoy a grand day out.

In West Virginia, one mainstay is the Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad, which takes sightseers into the Trough, a canyon deep in the Appalachian Forest that’s accessible only by rail or on foot. George Washington named the canyon during his 1748 surveying expedition, and its steep ridges are a nesting habitat for bald eagles, which onboard guides help riders spot from the train.

The Potomac Eagle’s regular run is a 35-mile round-trip from the town of Romney into the Trough, complete with a scenic bridge crossing. Reserve your spot today! Visit potomaceagle.com to learn more.

Read more:

https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/13/travel/historic-train-trips-canada-mexico-us.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.

 

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

Today is Sunday, March 23, 2025.

Help shape the future of West Virginia at Generation WV’s Pathways to Progress conference, set for May in Charleston…whether you’re looking for a job or exploring a career change, WorkForce WV has the tools to help…and capture that Instagram-worthy shot at the new Almost Heaven swing at Tygart Lake State Park …on today’s daily304.

#1 – From GENERATION WV – Be part of the conversation shaping the future of West Virginia's workforce! Join Generation WV for “Pathways to Progress,” an engaging conference designed to empower individuals and organizations with the tools, knowledge, and connections to shape the future of West Virginia’s workforce.

This must-attend event, set for May 8 at the Charleston Marriott Town Center,brings together young professionals, employers, educators, and community leaders to explore strategies for workforce innovation, talent retention, and building a brighter future for West Virginia. Register now!

Learn more:

https://generationwv.networkforgood.com/events/80722-generation-wv-presents-pathways-to-progress-charting-a-course-for-wv-s-future-workforce

 

#2 – From WORKFORCE WV – WorkForce West Virginia is the premiere destination for job seekers navigating the ever-evolving landscape of employment opportunities. Whether you’re embarking on a new career path, seeking to advance your current role, or exploring fresh challenges, WorkForce West Virginia is here to guide you every step of the way. 

Check out the Career Resources Hub to learn more about job fairs, career transition support and more.

Learn more:

https://workforcewv.org/job-seeker/

 

#3 – From WV NEWS – Visitors to Tygart Lake State Park can now capture an Instagram-worthy photo from the newly installed Almost Heaven swing overlooking the Tygart Valley River.

An initiative of the West Virginia Department of Tourism with support from Mountaineer Country Convention & Visitors Bureau, this latest addition is part of a growing network of wooden swings placed at iconic West Virginia landmarks, providing guests with a picturesque spot to relax and take in breathtaking views.

Tygart Lake joins a growing list of scenic locations featuring these charming wooden swings. Other sites include Babcock State Park, Snowshoe Mountain, the State Capitol and more. For a full list of swing locations and to plan your visit, check out WV Tourism’s official website.

Read more:

https://www.wvnews.com/news/wvnews/tygart-lake-state-park-adds-scenic-overlook-swing-for-visitors/article_22d8176a-febb-11ef-95e9-5bb259016dce.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.

 

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

Today is Saturday, March 22, 2025.

Lost + Found Pizza and Provisions serves up tasty Neapolitan style pies in the Lost River Valley…WorkForceWV assists businesses with finding effective workforce solutions…and WV’s Eastern Panhandle and southwestern counties get ready to welcome (or at least tolerate) the noisy return of cicadas this spring…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV LIVING – Two couples with big ideas found a home—and success—in the Lost River Valley with Lost + Found Pizza and Provisions. Chad Sandhas and Maxwell Hessman, together with Kim and Jimmy Eggert, opened the restaurant in Mathias in 2023. 

The Neapolitan-style pies they serve can’t be found anywhere else around these parts. The pepperoni pizza is their top seller, hands down, but the pizza Sandhas finds most interesting is one called The Apple, featuring thinly sliced apples with white cheddar cheese and housemade onion jam. 

With just over a year under their belts, Sandhas says Lost + Found’s focus is continuing to attract people who haven’t given it a shot yet. 

“We believe if the food is good, it will bring people together, and that’s what we’re trying to offer here,” he said. 

You can view their menu at lostandfoundlrv.com.

Read more:

https://wvliving.com/not-quite-lost-at-lost-found-pizza-and-provisions/

 

#2 – From WORKFORCE WV – WorkForce West Virginia serves as a trusted partner for businesses seeking effective workforce solutions. Recognizing the pivotal role of skilled employees in driving business success, the agency offers a range of tailored services to address the diverse needs of companies statewide. 

Businesses collaborating with WorkForce West Virginia gain access to a comprehensive array of resources and support. From recruitment assistance to workforce training programs, WorkForce West Virginia is committed to facilitating the seamless acquisition, development, and retention of top talent.

Visit workforcewv.com to access the Employer Services Hub.

Read more:

https://workforcewv.org/businesses/

 

#3 – From WBOY-TV – Although the largest cicada brood in West Virginia won’t return until 2033, some counties will see cicadas from Brood XIV, which emerges in 2025.

West Virginia is one of 13 states that will be impacted by Brood XIV in 2025, but only sections of the state will see—and hear—the large insects, which only emerge every 17 or 13 years, depending on the brood.

In 2025, counties in the southwestern part of the state and in the Eastern Panhandle will see (and hear!) the noisy insects. Cicadas usually emerge in late spring when the ground temperature reached 64 degrees. After that, they will stick around for about 4-6 weeks.

Read more:

https://www.wboy.com/wv-outdoors/cicadas-returning-to-west-virginia-in-2025-what-counties-will-see-them/

 

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.

 

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

Today is Friday, March 21, 2025.

The Hatfield McCoy Trails promote a free phone navigation system that will help speed emergency response time…iconic chip maker Mister Bee gets a major overhaul with help from the West Virginia Economic Development Authority…and earn points to win prizes on West Virginia’s spooky Paranormal Trail…on today’s daily304.

 

#1 – From WV PRESS – The Hatfield-McCoy Trails is partnering with local emergency response agencies to urge the use of the “what3words” phone application on its trails and throughout its service areas. 

The app assigns a unique address (made of 3 random words) to every 10 square feet worldwide. Its precise location data ensures faster emergency response times and is a valuable tool for trail riders who can use it to navigate, pinpoint, and share locations on the trails. 

“We’ve seen positive results from “what3words.” It has enabled us to locate individuals who have become lost with no idea of where they are,” Kimball Fire Chief Jimmy Gianato said.

“What3words” is free and easy to use and navigates with or without a phone signal or data. To learn more, visit: https://what3words.com/business

Read more:

https://wvpress.org/wvpa-sharing/hatfield-mccoy-trails-supports-free-phone-navigation-tool-to-aid-in-emergency-response/?utm_source=newsletter

 

#2 – From WV EDA – Mister Bee is the only potato chip made in West Virginia. Now owner Mary Anne Ketelsen was determined to make sure the brand would be around for generations to come. When she took over in 2018, the operation needed to be completely rehauled. 

With the West Virginia Economic Development Authority financing, Mister Bee was able to triple their capacity, make new products, and hire more people.

Watch the video:

https://eda.wv.gov/iconic-potato-chip-manufacturer-is-thriving-with-wveda-support/

 

#3 – From WV EXPLORER – Driven by tourists’ fascination with the eerie and unexplained, West Virginia has developed a statewide paranormal trail guiding thrill-seekers to its most haunted and spine-chilling destinations, from the West Virginia Penitentiary to Lake Shawnee Abandoned Amusement Park.

West Virginia Department of Tourism Director Chelsea Ruby says a trail system’s digital passport lets visitors check in at haunted sites, earn points, and unlock exciting prizes. Check-ins include various haunted attractions, ghost tours and cryptid museums.

Travelers may register to participate in The West Virginia Paranormal Trail online and instantly receive the digital passport via email or text.

Once their exploration is underway, visitors may check in to spooky spots around the state to earn points and unlock exclusive Paranormal Trail prizes – including an official sticker, a beanie, and a limited-edition print by West Virginia artist Liz Pavlovic.

Read more:

https://wvexplorer.com/2025/03/10/west-virginia-paranormal-trail-established/

 

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.

 

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

Today is Thursday, March 20, 2025 

The WV Grant Resource Centers are helping communities throughout the state identify funding resources and submit competitive proposals…GS Millwork in Parsons serves as an example of craftsmanship and innovation in #YesWV…and WV Living seeks nominations for the 2025 class of West Virginia Wonder Women…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV SECRETARY OF STATE –  On the second episode of “Just Three Questions,” West Virginia Secretary of State Kris Warner sits down to talk about the West Virginia Grant Resource Centers with Dr. Liz Vitullo, Assistant Vice President for Economic Innovation at West Virginia University.

The West Virginia Grant Resource Centers assist communities and other eligible applicants in developing competitive grant applications. With locations in Huntington and Morgantown, the centers serve all 55 counties, helping eligible applicants identify funding opportunities, put together competitive proposals, and submit complete application packages.

Read more:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TPukrin1rds

 

#2 – From WV COMMERCE – Discover the craftsmanship and innovation behind GS Millwork, a leading manufacturer of high-quality architectural millwork and custom wood products in Parsons, West Virginia. With a dedication to precision and artistry, GS Millwork creates stunning cabinetry, moldings, and interior finishes for commercial and residential projects. 

Watch how their expert team brings designs to life with superior materials and craftsmanship.

Learn more:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-qVp1W-VDX4

 

#3 – From WV LIVING – Since 2014, WV Living magazine has been honoring West Virginia Wonder Women--amazing women who are raising the bar in their communities, serving as beacons of light in their industries, and forcing change for the greater good.

No need for bulletproof bracelets or a golden lasso of truth—these women are creating a better West Virginia with their can-do attitudes and Mountain State spirit.

Do you know of a West Virginia Wonder Woman? Nominate her now! But hurry…the deadline for 2025 nominations is Tuesday, March 25. 

Learn more:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdXUo9Gwudw6Dp7AIaD5v5x4ACMdc16kCa99_uUgEp1oyJZag/viewform

 

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.

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

Today is Wednesday, March 19, 2025.

Congratulations to WVU’s new Mountaineer mascot, Cade Kincaid of Fayetteville…plan a weekend escape to historic Martinsburg in the heart of the Eastern Panhandle…and GenerationWV’s NewForce initiative switches its focus to data analytics…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WBOY-TV – West Virginia University has officially named its 71st WVU Mountaineer Mascot for 2025-26.

Cade Kincaid, a junior accounting major from Fayetteville, was chosen to wear the buckskins and coonskin cap during a recent men’s basketball game.

Kincaid said he is proud to be carrying on his family at WVU as mother and sister are both alumni. One of his fondest WVU memories was attending the Backyard Brawl with his father at Milan Puskar Stadium in 2023 as the “Student of the Game.”

Read more:

https://www.wboy.com/news/monongalia/west-virginia-university/wvu-names-71st-mountaineer-mascot-for-2025-26/

 

#2 – From TRAVEL WV –  Tucked away just an hour from Washington, D.C., Martinsburg offers appealing small-town charm, a compelling foodie scene, and endless outdoor recreation —perfect for a refreshing getaway. Whether you’re visiting for a long weekend or an extensive stay, there are plenty of ways to get adventurous during your trip to Berkeley County.

Start your day with a cup of coffee at The Daily Grind, then head over to Poor House Farm Park for an afternoon of hiking and disc golf. In the evening, enjoy live music, local cuisine, and a refreshing bourbon sweet tea at Black Draft Distillery.

Check out travelwv.com for more great suggestions for your Martinsburg itinerary!

Read more:

https://www.travelwv.com/blog-3-1/a-perfect-spring-weekend

 

#3 – From WV NEWS – After switching focus to data analytics in January, Generation WV’s NewForce initiative is in the middle of training its first cohort of West Virginia students under the new curriculum with the ultimate goal of placing them in stable, high-paying jobs.

From its inception in 2019 until 2024, the initiative offered training in software development, but NewForce Program Manager Casey Patterson said the workload changed to data analytics this year after officials saw a shifting need in the workforce.

The remote, tuition-free program is able to pay its students a living stipend over its six-month duration thanks to a grant, and since classes are remote, students from all across the state are able to take part in the upskill training.

Read more:

https://www.wvnews.com/statejournal/news/newforce-program-educating-first-cohort-of-west-virginia-based-data-analytics-students/article_3d1b17ac-fa89-11ef-90cc-5f5e8a1d1ebf.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.

 

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

Today is Tuesday, March 18, 2025.

The History Project looks back at the beginnings of West Virginia’s chemical industry, starting with salt production…hike among towering old-growth trees at Watoga State Park…and the family owned Warwood Tool has been in business longer than West Virginia has been a state…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From THE HISTORY PROJECT – Lured to West Virginia by its nascent salt industry, the brine made it possible for the chemical industry to flourish. Though there were plants around the state, the industry mostly made their home in the Kanawha Valley, stretching from Belle to a town created just for chemical-making, Nitro. Highs and lows unique to the industry have altered production but it continues to thrive in the Mountain State.

Tune in to The History Project to learn more about the birth and growth of West Virginia’s chemical industry. And don’t forget to like and subscribe for more videos on the famous people, places and events that shaped West Virginia

Watch the video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3QQHxv0bgE0

 

#2 – From ONLY IN YOUR STATE – To live in West Virginia is to experience some of the most stunning wilderness in America. It probably comes as no surprise, then, that West Virginia is home to its fair share of old-growth forests. These are places where the trees have grown freely for decades and, in many cases, centuries, having been spared from logging and other deforestation efforts. 

Today, we’re grateful for these magical places that feel that help make West Virginia so wild and wonderful. If you’d like to explore one of these places, plan a visit to Watoga State Park in Marlinton. You’ll hike among towering trees and explore some of the region’s best views.

At the heart of this park is a special wilderness area tucked away between the Ann Bailey Trail and the Burnside Ridge Trail. This is where you'll discover a 500-acre grove of hardwoods, home to some true giants.

Visit wvstateparks.com to learn more about Watoga and reserve lodging.

Read more:

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nature/west-virginia/coolest-wilderness-area-wv

 

#3 – From WV DED – Nearly a decade before West Virginia’s statehood, a small business in what would become Ohio County began supplying products to Civil War soldiers. Since its inception, Warwood Tool has supplied products in every war and the town of Warwood, West Virginia, sprung up around the business. 

Warwood Tool is a family owned and operated business. In 168 years of operation, the company has only changed ownership seven times. Family is still a focus at the company where President Chris Azur and Chief Operating Officer Rob Taylor prioritize and honor the traditions and skilled labor of the employees present, and owners past. 

The hard working, highly skilled employees at Warwood Tool are one of the reasons the business continues to say “Yes to West Virginia.”

Watch the video:

https://westvirginia.gov/industrial-grade-hand-forged-tools-made-right-here-in-yeswv-meet-warwood-tool/

 

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.

 

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

Today is Monday, March 17, 2025.

Opportunity Move assists federal agencies in relocating to West Virginia…a Charleston distillery grows with assistance from the West Virginia Small Business Development Center…and get ready for the first-ever Wild Trails Festival showcasing a weekend of great live music at the State Fairgrounds…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WVDED – Opportunity Move is a state-run program designed to assist federal agencies in mitigating risk, reducing expense budgets and providing upskilling, workforce recruitment and training opportunities.

From real estate solutions to energy savings: West Virginia delivers relief for escalating lease and property costs, a high quality of living for your employees and a geographic location that supports longterm strategic business continuity objectives of your agency.

Contact the West Virginia Department of Economic Development to learn how West Virginia is providing fiscal, business continuity, and workforce solutions for Federal agencies.

Read more:

https://westvirginia.gov/industries/opportunity-move/

 

#2 – From WV SBDC – Bullock Distillery is a craft, family-owned distillery in the historic Elk City district of Charleston, West Virginia. 

Producing vodka, barrel-rested gin, bourbon, brandy, and West Virginia moonshine, Bullock Distillery puts its name on quality as well as taste. The small business sources its limestone water from Greenbrier County offering a unique product with Mountain State appeal.

Chief Owner and Operator Tighe Bullock, along with founder John Bullock, says the West Virginia Small Business Development Center has been instrumental in helping the distillery chart through the unfamiliar territories of becoming who they are today. 

“There are so many services that we offer from business planning to load packaging,” said Doug Spaulding, regional coordinator for the SBDC. “We help connect people to different resources or lenders to match what their needs are.” 

Read more:

https://wvsbdc.com/a-taste-of-west-virginia-with-bullock-distillery-and-the-sbdc/

 

#3 – From WOAY-TV – While the state fair isn’t till August, fair officials have some fun coming up in June you do not want to miss. They’ll be holding their first-ever Wild Trails Festival.

This 3-day festival takes place June 19-21 and features tons of local music. The headliners will be Oliver Anthony, Treaty Oak Revival, and Flatland Calvary, more acts will be announced as we get closer.

The festival is part of the celebration of the 100th anniversary of the State Fair of West Virginia.

“It’s over West Virginia Day weekend. So what better weekend to celebrate our state than have a music festival here at the state fair,” said Kelly Collins, CEO of State Fair of West Virginia.

For tickets and scheduling information, visit wildtrailswv.com.

Read more:

https://woay.com/state-fair-of-west-virginia-to-hold-the-first-ever-wild-trails-festival/#google_vignette

 

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.

 

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

Today is Sunday, March 16, 2025.

The West Virginia Entrepreneurship Ecosystem assists small businesses in achieving their dreams…Trilogy Innovations will donate funds for the creation of a cybersecurity laboratory at WVU…and plan an unforgettable spring break escape to West Virginia’s wild and wonderful state parks…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WVNEWS – Starting a business is hard. Keeping one afloat is even harder.

The West Virginia Entrepreneurship Ecosystem is a coalition of individuals who work towards increasing access to over 150 resources and education opportunities to make what seems impossible, achievable.

Entrepreneurship is the foundation of small businesses. And as the West Virginia economy is composed primarily of small businesses, entrepreneur assistance is aid for the economy at large, said Amber Ravenscroft, WVEE co-chair.

WVEE assists small businesses in accessing investment capital, connecting with partners and new clients and provides free technical assistance.

Funding for new projects can be found through WV Business Link’s Investors Collaborative program which pools together angel investors and venture capitalists to foster investment into and development of local businesses.

Read more:

https://www.wvnews.com/business/west-virginia-entrepreneurship-ecosystem-coalition-connects-business-owners-with-resources-and-each-other/article_b73985c4-ee26-11ef-b6fa-430bb3a9675b.html

 

#2 – From TRILOGY IT – Trilogy Innovations, Inc., a nationally recognized SBA Certified 8(a) small and minority-owned systems and software engineering company, will donate funds for the creation of a cybersecurity laboratory at the West Virginia University Benjamin M. Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources.

The gift includes the naming of the cyber lab, build-out, equipment, and creation of an endowment. Trilogy Co-Founders Brandon Downey and Randy Cottle said the donation will create the first-ever cyber lab at WVU’s engineering school and will place an emphasis on cybersecurity engineering. Renovation at the college to accommodate the new lab will begin soon.

The Trilogy gift was made through the WVU Foundation, the nonprofit organization that receives and administers private donations on behalf of the university.

Read more:

https://www.trilogyit.com/post/trilogy-innovations-donates-cyber-lab-to-wvu-engineering-school

 

#3 – From WV STATE PARKS – As the winter chill fades away, our anticipation for spring break kicks into high gear! While typical destinations often mean crowded beaches or bustling city getaways, West Virginia State Parks offer hidden gems waiting to be discovered. 

With over 45 unique state parks, forests and rail trails, there’s something for every member of the family to enjoy. 

Start your adventure at Beartown State Park, known for its unique, towering rock formations and a half-mile boardwalk that guides visitors through the fairy tale-like setting. After exploring Beartown, be sure to visit nearby Droop Mountain Battlefield, the site of West Virginia’s last significant Civil War battle. Plan an overnight stay at Watoga State Park, where you can fish, hike, and enjoy stunning views from the observation tower.

Visit wvstateparks.com to learn more about our wild, wonderful parks and reserve your lodging today!

Read more:

https://wvstateparks.com/spring-break-adventures-for-the-whole-family-at-west-virginia-state-parks/

 

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.