As we kick off 2025 in the Greenbrier Valley, we are excited about the opportunities for businesses in our region. We hope you’ve come to know us as the resource experts when it comes to opportunities, so we’ll kick off the new year with a blog outlining a few of the programs and resources for Business Retention and Expansion (BRE).
The Greenbrier Valley EDC team works closely with companies to discuss their objectives and help find ways to achieve them. Depending upon the situation, that may include identifying available incentives, or programs. We also provide some direct financing and can connect business owners with other funding options. When a business needs infrastructure improvements to make a project possible, we guide them through the process and connect them with key decision-makers.
Our BRE services at the Greenbrier Valley EDC are a top priority – investing in businesses that have invested in our communities, ensuring success and economic growth. We hope 2025 is your year to thrive – connect with us today to find the assistance you need right now.
There are numerous programs and partners within our region, we’ll outline just a few here. Contact us to learn more.
Loans and Financing
Greenbrier Valley EDC offers access to capital through a number of programs and partners. From traditional financing at locally owned banks to innovative loan programs from CDFIs, we can help you find the right product for your business – for gap financing, equipment purchases, facility improvements, and working capital.
- GVEDC Micro Loan funds 5,000 to $30,000 for businesses starting or expanding in our region.
- Wyoming County EDA offers flexible financing to businesses statewide.
- West Virginia Economic Development Authority offers direct loans for manufacturing, as well as loan insurance and industrial bonds.
- SBA Loans lower the risk for local lenders in businesses deals.
- WV Capital Access Program is offered by a number of partners. This program offers innovative ways to fund businesses that may not fit the traditional business model.
- West Virginia Jobs Investment Trust is a public venture capital fund created to develop, promote, and expand West Virginia’s economy.
- Grants for businesses are out there, but not as common as one may think. See our previous blog for more info.
Tax Credits and Incentives: A Partnership with WV
We work collectively with the WV Department of Economic Development, and we have a dedicated BRE rep specifically for Greenbrier Valley businesses. This partnership ensures that each manufacturer has access to the many resources available to the industry, including accessing tax credits through the state that reward your investment in West Virginia. For large expansion or relocation projects, this partnership also allows us to bring all the parties to the table to ensure you’re receiving all the resources you need.
Workforce Development Solutions
Our business’ success depends on a skilled workforce. In addition to the amazing WV Invests We’ve developed strong partnerships to support your staffing needs:
- Customized training programs through New River Community and Technical College
- Apprenticeship program development assistance
- Talent recruitment assistance from Generation WV and virtual job fairs through Workforce WV
- Connections to state workforce development funding including On the Job Training, Transitional Jobs, and Incumbent worker training.
- High school and middle school vocational partnerships
Infrastructure and Site Selection
Finding the right site or building for expansion or relocation is important. We offer support and connections to:
- Site selection assistance and property database access. To see what sites are currently available in the Greenbrier Valley, access our database here.
- Infrastructure assessment and improvement coordination
- Regulatory navigation assistance including permitting assistance and environmental compliance.
Technical Assistance and Business Support Network
A number of partners offer programs to keep your business competitive by access to a wide range of programs.
WVU Industrial Extension and Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center are top tier business development partners for manufacturers and value-added producers, providing OSHA and other trainings, energy efficiency audits and improvement programs, lean manufacturing consultation, quality certification assistance, and more.
The US Commercial Trade Service offer export assistance and international trade guidance.
For small businesses, there are a vast number of programs out there ready to support your business. Check out our blog from 2023 here and let us introduce you to our great partners at the WV Hive, the WV SBDC, the WV Women’s Business Center, Woodlands Development, and more!
Ready to explore how our BRE program can support your business?
Here’s how to begin:
1. Contact us to schedule a facility visit or consultation to identify your top priorities.
2. Receive a customized resource and action plan tailored to your goals
3. Begin implementing solutions with our support
Contact us:
Greenbrier Valley EDC, 304-497-4300, https://yesgreenbriervalley.com/
Executive Director, Ruthana Beezley, rbeezley@gvedc.com
If you’d like a visit, use this quick form, to schedule one today.
Remember, your success is our success. We are looking forward to an exciting 2025!
