Advantage Valley is Fertile Soil for Growth-Minded Entrepreneurs
Advantage Valley has always been a great place to start or grow a small business, and our team provides a wealth of resources to small business owners and entrepreneurs alike. Our FASTER WV (the acronym stands for Fostering Advantages for Start-Ups & Entrepreneurial Resurgence in WV) initiative is here to identify, encourage, and support businesses like yours through one-on-one business coaching, a series of information-packed workshops, basic business entrepreneurship courses, technical assistance, mini-grants, and loans from a revolving loan fund.
Let us help you as you navigate the challenges of starting or scaling a small business in Advantage Valley.
Through its FASTER WV Initiative, Advantage Valley and its partners (Unlimited Future, Inc., and the Wyoming County Economic Development Authority) are building a stronger culture of entrepreneurship in the region, which is comprised of Boone, Braxton, Cabell, Clay, Jackson, Kanawha, Lincoln, Putnam, Mason and Wayne Counties.
Participants have access to free one-on-one business coaching with a FASTER WV coach, access to free entrepreneurship classes, and access to capital through a dedicated FASTER WV Loan Fund to start or grow a business in the region.
Building a Strong Financial Foundation
Bank on Your Success: Building & Maintaining Credit Workshop
Learn the essentials of banking, budgeting, and credit to confidently manage your personal and business finances. Gain practical tools to avoid common pitfalls, improve your financial habits, and prepare your business for sustainable growth from day one.
Faster WV Funding Provided By:
Fill Out the FASTER WV Client Intake Form
FASTER WV
Frequently Asked Questions
What Services Does FASTER WV Provide?
Entrepreneurs working with FASTER WV may receive support such as:
- One-on-one business coaching
- Entrepreneur training and educational workshops
- Technical Assistance grants
- Support developing business plans and financial projections
- Connections to lenders and funding opportunities
- Networking opportunities with regional partners and mentors
The program focuses on helping entrepreneurs build strong operational systems, understand their financials, and prepare for long‑term sustainability.
Who Can Participate in FASTER WV?
FASTER WV supports entrepreneurs and small businesses located in—or planning to operate in—the Advantage Valley region of West Virginia.
This includes businesses located in the following counties:
- Boone
- Braxton
- Cabell
- Clay
- Jackson
- Kanawha
- Lincoln
- Mason
- Putnam
- Wayne
The program primarily serves:
- Entrepreneurs launching a new business
- Early‑stage businesses within their first 1–3 years of operation
- Individuals purchasing an existing business
- Small businesses preparing to expand operations
Entrepreneurs at different stages may qualify for different services depending on their needs and readiness.
How can FASTER WV help me access capital for my small business?
Access to capital is one of the biggest challenges facing entrepreneurs. FASTER WV helps business owners prepare for financing by providing guidance on financial readiness, business planning, and funding strategies.
Entrepreneurs can receive support in preparing loan applications, understanding financing options, and improving financial documentation required by lenders. The program also connects entrepreneurs with banks, community lenders, and regional funding programs that support small business growth.
Does FASTER WV Offer Small Busines Loans?
FASTER WV works alongside Advantage Valley’s Revolving Loan Fund (RLF), which provides small business loans designed to support startup and early‑stage companies.
These loans typically range from $5,000 to $50,000 and may be used for purposes such as:
- Equipment purchases
- Startup expenses
- Business expansion
- Working capital
The program is designed to help businesses that may not yet qualify for traditional bank financing. Entrepreneurs are encouraged to work with a FASTER WV business coach to strengthen their business plan and financial projections before applying for funding.
What is a Technical Assistance Grant?
FASTER WV offers Technical Assistance grants that help entrepreneurs pay for professional services that support business growth.
These grants can help cover the cost of services such as:
- Marketing and branding support
- Website development
- Financial consulting
- Legal assistance
- Business planning services
Technical Assistance grants help entrepreneurs access expertise that can improve business performance and accelerate growth.
How do I get started with FASTER WV?
How Do I Get Started with FASTER WV?
Entrepreneurs interested in working with FASTER WV can begin by contacting the Advantage Valley team.
After an initial conversation, entrepreneurs may be connected with a business coach who can help identify needs, recommend resources, and guide them through available services including training programs, technical assistance funding, and capital access programs.
Click here to connect with a coach.
Why do programs like FASTER WV matter?
Entrepreneurship plays a vital role in regional economic development. Programs like FASTER WV help entrepreneurs overcome common barriers such as lack of capital, limited access to expertise, and difficulty navigating early‑stage business challenges.
By providing coaching, education, funding assistance, and regional partnerships, FASTER WV helps entrepreneurs build sustainable businesses that create jobs and strengthen communities throughout the Advantage Valley region.
Meet Our Business Coaches!
Contact a FASTER WV Business Coach directly or CLICK HERE to complete an intake form and let us match you with a coach today:
Advantage Valley
Upcoming FASTER WV Events
Grow Your Business
An Entrepreneurial Learning Path
Advantage Valley’s FASTER WV Entrepreneurship Program has partnered with Marshall Skills Exchange to create a flexible and affordable way for aspiring founders and small business owners to build real-world skills and confidence.
Online courses can play an important role for both the individual and for business by offering a cost-effective, targeted approach to training and upskilling. Through courses on the Marshall Skills Exchange, learners gain in-demand knowledge with on-demand delivery—empowering entrepreneurs and businesses alike to grow and adapt in today’s fast-changing economy.
The FASTER WV Entrepreneurial Learning Path includes 12 stackable courses designed to guide you from idea to launch!
Sector Specific Resources for Business Owners
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Childcare
Construction Trades
Food and Beverage
Healthcare
River & Outdoor Recreation
