are also taking this time to brainstorm how to better assist our companies who are actively seeking new employees to grow their business .”
Also working to draw newcomers to the region is the Upper Ohio Valley Regional Tourism Group , which promotes regional tourism collaboration from three
states and 12 counties in West Virginia , cross-promoting events , festivals and activities , according to Holly Morgan , president of the Wetzel County Convention & Visitors Bureau ( CVB ) and festival director for the Back Home Festival .
The Back Home Festival returned in June 2021 and is the Wetzel County CVB ’ s crowning achievement . In just a few short years , it has become a premier admissionfree destination on the East Coast .
“ The festival has hosted a bevy of Grammy Award-winning and nominated artists , such as Billy Strings , Del McCoury and The Steeldrivers ,” says Morgan . “ Situated in the heart of downtown New Martinsville , the Back Home Festival has gained a reputation as one of the most organized and welcoming festivals in the nation . The quaint river town truly rolls out the red carpet for festival goers .”
Regionalism and Reconnection
As tourist-drawing events spring back to life , businesses of all sizes are thinking outside the box to make sure West Virginia ’ s best features are on display . A large piece of that puzzle involves improvements in
broadband coverage , and the ReConnect program plays a critical role .
ReConnect provides federal financing options to expand broadband services in rural , underserved areas . It is a gamechanging opportunity for West Virginia , according to Jefferson , and the pandemic certainly highlighted and prioritized the need .
“ This is a much needed and necessary opportunity to serve the most rural and un-serviced parts of our state ,” says Jefferson . “ Specifically in Wetzel County , there will be an estimated 87 miles of fiber to an estimated 1,400 businesses and homes .”
With so many positive changes under way , the region is becoming more attractive than ever for new workers and businesses , particularly with the low cost of doing business , community engagement and records of success .
“ If you look at companies who call our region home , it is clear this is not only a place to do business but also for those businesses to find tremendous success and growth and become a model for their industries ,” says Jefferson . “ In cooperation with the governor , the West Virginia
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