West Virginia State University Extension Service (www.grdi.wvstateu.edu) is launching a new Entrepreneurial Assistance Center in Webster Springs designed to encourage and enhance small business development in the region. A Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony is scheduled for Thursday, October 15, at Noon.
The center, located at 301 North Main Street, will introduce programming initiatives in phases over the coming year as building renovations are completed. The first phase will open a new entrepreneur co-op for artisans, clothing vendors, specialty foods and similar items. The Country Opportunities Co-op is being established using USDA Rural Business Services funds and will provide collaborative purchasing, marketing and other shared-resource options for its members.
“The most visible opportunity for co-op members is the usage of a new retail store being housed within the center,” says Cathy Schrader, Economic Development Extension Agent with WVSU Extension Service. The store, called Make It Personal Boutique, will feature items from the co-op members and serve as the retail launch point for the businesses.
Additional phases will include business development training sessions for potential small business owners, scheduled to begin in early 2010 with Workforce WV (http://bit.ly/43sNBW), and the launching of a business incubator with office space and shipping capabilities for businesses.
The retail store within the center will open on October 10. Regular business hours are Monday through Friday, 9:30-5:30, and Saturday from 9:00-2:00.
WVSU Extension Service (http://bit.ly/3uKDEg) is collaborating with the Webster County Economic Development Authority (www.websterwv.com) on the initiative.
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