Entrepreneurship Reimagined
The Mountain State was founded and built by hardworking Mountaineers who wanted a better life for their families . Generations later , West Virginians are still creating innovative solutions for Appalachia ’ s hardships .
With a developing fintech sandbox and more than 40 makerspaces and creative hubs opening their doors across the state , West Virginia is poised to become the next leader in entrepreneurship . To help unlock Appalachia ’ s full potential in entrepreneurship , the staff at West Virginia Executive magazine sought to compile and share all the ways education
and innovation are shaping an entrepreneurial generation in West Virginia .
Highlighted in this section are unique tools , special initiatives , partnerships , new developments and growth opportunities in and around the Mountain State for entrepreneurs of all ages . From education institutions and venture capital funds , as well as other organizations that offer entrepreneurial opportunities and resources , there is a partner dedicated to the success of every entrepreneur and the success of West Virginia .
Entrepreneurship Thrives at Concord University
Aspiring business owners and entrepreneurs who are already open for business can look to Concord University ( CU ) for the education , information , training and encouragement that it takes to be your own boss .
Through the new Entrepreneurial Scholars program , students receive guidance developing and expanding their business ideas while receiving scholarship assistance . Students pursuing a bachelor ’ s degree in Studio
Art now have the option of selecting an Entrepreneurship Emphasis as a major .
Concord ’ s Entrepreneurship Minor is designed for students in any major interested in transforming their passion into a viable venture , starting their own business by exploring market opportunities or enhancing existing businesses with which they are currently engaged or plan to join prospectively .
Concord students are repeatedly award winners in statewide competitions , including the West Virginia Innovation and Business Model Competition and the West Virginia Collegiate Business Plan Competition . CU ’ s aspiring entrepreneurs also pitch their ideas at Concord ’ s annual Business Plan Competition .
Dr . Angela Addair , Director of Entrepreneurial Studies , assists students and community members in pursuing their passions of owning / operating their own businesses . Representing Concord in partnership with the CREATE Opportunity initiative in Bluefield , WV , she provides entrepreneurship training , business planning , business coaching and company training .
Dr . Angela Addair Director of Entrepreneurial Studies
( 304 ) 384-5245 | aaddair @ concord . edu
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WEST VIRGINIA EXECUTIVE