CLARKSBURG ─ The U.S. Small Business Administration in conjunction with its network of small business resource partners throughout West Virginia, will be hosting a Veterans Business Summit on Tuesday, Sept.14, at the I-79 Technology Park Research Center in Fairmont.
This free event will provide veterans and their spouses with training and resources on veteran-owned business financing; doing business with the federal government; strategic business planning; business legal structures; legal lessons for federal contractors; and free small business resources.
The summit will feature speakers from SBA’s Office of Veterans Affairs, Medal of Honor Recipient Hershel “Woody” Williams, numerous veteran small business owners, local lenders, and small business resource partners.
“According to the U.S. Census Bureau, approximately 173,000 veterans reside in West Virginia making it a state with one of the highest number of veterans per capita in the nation,” said Judy McCauley, Director of SBA’s West Virginia District Office. “And veterans make great business owners. Because of their military background, they understand the importance of teamwork, have tremendous self-discipline, and often develop technical skills during their military service that serves them well as entrepreneurs.”
Federal contracting officers are actively searching for veteran-owned and service disabled veteran-owned small businesses to fulfill various contracting opportunities. According to SBA’s Office of Advocacy, there are approximately 15,000 veteran-owned small businesses in West Virginia. However, only 229 are registered to do business with the federal government.
“That number needs to be much higher,” stated McCauley. “The Veterans Business Summit is an excellent starting point for veteran-owned businesses to learn about doing business with the government. The agenda features several successful veteran small business owners who will be sharing their government contracting experience free of charge.”
The event is free for all veterans and their spouses, but pre-registration is strongly encouraged. For registration information, visit www.wvscore.org or call 1-800-767-8052 ext. 8.
Sponsors of the Summit include the West Virginia Small Business Development Center, the West Virginia Women’s Business and Training Center, and SCORE.
Friday, July 30, 2010
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Five regional groups selected for new economic development program
MORGANTOWN — The USDA Rural Development, in conjunction with The Northeast Regional Center for Rural Development, West Virginia State University Cooperative Extension, and other state and local partners, have selected five West Virginia multi-county areas for a new economic development program called “Stronger Economies Together” (SET).
The five entities selected in West Virginia were as follows:
• 4-C Economic Development Authority which serves Fayette, Nicholas, Raleigh and Summers Counties. Goals: Unified Community Development; Enhancement of Entrepreneurial Support; and Strengthening Private Sector Partnerships.
• Hardwood Alliance Zone (HAZ), which serves Preston, Barbour, Tucker, Lewis, Upshur, Randolph, and Webster Counties. Goals: Develop Marketing Plan for HAZ; Create Contact Management System for Business Prospects; Organizational Maintenance; and Industry Training and Outreach.
• National Coal Heritage Area Authority, which serves Boone, Cabell, Fayette, Lincoln, Logan, McDowell, Mercer, Mingo, Raleigh, Summers, Wayne, Wyoming, and Paint Creek/Cabin Creek, Kanawha Counties. Goals: Creation of National Coal Heritage Area Discovery Center; Expand and cross-promote the Coal Heritage Trail; and Assist with the completion of Country Roads Scenic ByWay Interpretive Center.
• Doddridge & Ritchie County SET Team, which serves Doddridge and Ritchie Counties. Goals: Increase per capita income by increasing farm income and profitability; Attract and develop agricultural-related businesses; and Develop a sustainable revenue stream with value-added businesses.
• Eastern Panhandle Regional Planning and Development Council, which serves Berkeley, Hampshire, Jefferson and Morgan Counties. Goals: Promote business growth for higher paying job potential; Identify target markets for job growth and development; and Comprehensive marketing plan for the area.
• 4-C Economic Development Authority which serves Fayette, Nicholas, Raleigh and Summers Counties. Goals: Unified Community Development; Enhancement of Entrepreneurial Support; and Strengthening Private Sector Partnerships.
• Hardwood Alliance Zone (HAZ), which serves Preston, Barbour, Tucker, Lewis, Upshur, Randolph, and Webster Counties. Goals: Develop Marketing Plan for HAZ; Create Contact Management System for Business Prospects; Organizational Maintenance; and Industry Training and Outreach.
• National Coal Heritage Area Authority, which serves Boone, Cabell, Fayette, Lincoln, Logan, McDowell, Mercer, Mingo, Raleigh, Summers, Wayne, Wyoming, and Paint Creek/Cabin Creek, Kanawha Counties. Goals: Creation of National Coal Heritage Area Discovery Center; Expand and cross-promote the Coal Heritage Trail; and Assist with the completion of Country Roads Scenic ByWay Interpretive Center.
• Doddridge & Ritchie County SET Team, which serves Doddridge and Ritchie Counties. Goals: Increase per capita income by increasing farm income and profitability; Attract and develop agricultural-related businesses; and Develop a sustainable revenue stream with value-added businesses.
• Eastern Panhandle Regional Planning and Development Council, which serves Berkeley, Hampshire, Jefferson and Morgan Counties. Goals: Promote business growth for higher paying job potential; Identify target markets for job growth and development; and Comprehensive marketing plan for the area.
The SET program eligibility requirements were: 1) Applicants must be Multi-county regions (two or more counties) in West Virginia (or in conjunction with counties in neighboring states) where the average rural population is 51% or more of the region’s total population based on Census data or other sufficient data or documentation OR 2) Applicants must be Multi-county regions (two or more counties) in West Virginia (or in conjunction with counties in neighboring states) where 75% of the region's land area is located in rural areas of that region based on Census data or other sufficient data or documentation.
The successful applicants will receive the following: 1) Valuable intensive strategic planning training for their regional team, including the newly developed “Stronger Economies Together” program, a program designed to help your regional team develop new approaches to strengthen and enhance regional economic development activities; 2) Database tools specifically designed to help the regional teams examine the critical drivers of their region and identify emerging growth sectors and regional competitive advantages; 3) Technical assistance and educational support from the Northeast Regional Rural Development Center, WV Rural Development staff, and West Virginia State University Extension staff; and 4) Other educational and information-sharing opportunities with other SET program participants around the country.
Further information on USDA Rural Development may be obtained by visiting USDA’s website at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov .
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
SBA assistance helps keep Harrisville manufacturing company operating
HARRISVILLE – It has been said by small business owners many times and in various ways, but Richard Kerns, Chief Operating Officer for Troy, LLC in Harrisville, W.Va. is quite sincere when he stated, “In all honesty, we wouldn’t be here today without West Union Bank and the U.S. Small Business Administration.”
Troy is a manufacturer of non-woven needle punch textiles of which 85 percent of their business relies on the automotive industry. The company’s roots can be traced back to 1865 when they manufactured horse blankets, the prevalent mode of transportation at that time, which eventually shifted to automobiles in the 1920’s.
With their corporate headquarters based in Troy, NH, the company decided to build an 85,000 square foot manufacturing facility in Harrisville in 1974 to enhance their growing automotive production line. Once the facility was completed, business remained steady for Troy until the latter 1990’s. That is when the automotive industry started to experience a downturn which was enhanced by the September 11, 2001 disaster.
“Troy was in the process of moving their entire automotive division to Harrisville in 2001 when they decided to file bankruptcy and had no plans to restructure, basically just shut the doors and put the employees out in the street,” said Kerns. “Marty Ballen, our CEO, and I both worked for Troy at the time and made a decision to purchase the facility. Troy was one of the largest employers in Harrisville and several families depended on the company for their livelihood. So on March 15, 2002, with some help from Mountaineer Capital and the West Virginia Jobs Investment Trust, Troy, LLC was established.”
Business was good for Troy until late 2008 when the automotive industry started experiencing a serious decline.
“The year 2009 was probably the worst year Troy had financially,” said Kerns. “We made various changes and restructuring during the year which helped us get by, but when our financial partner decided to call our line of credit, things looked pretty bleak.”
That is when the SBA and West Union Bank came to the rescue.
“Richard contacted me early last fall and asked if there was anything West Union Bank could do to help,” said Ed Smith, Senior Vice President at the bank. “Being a small community bank and with Troy needing a fairly large line of credit, I knew we couldn’t help without significant assistance through some sort of guarantor.”
Smith then contacted the SBA’s West Virginia District Office and talked to Tom White, a lender relations specialist. White and Deputy Director David Manley met with the Smith and Kerns to discuss the situation and come up with viable options to save the company.
“We all recognized from the beginning this would be an uphill battle, but one worth fighting,” said Smith. “In light of the economic stimulus programs and the large financial bailouts the government was providing at the time, this was a real need in a real life situation.”
White worked closely with the bank to put together a line of credit through SBA’s CAPLine program under the agency’s flagship 7(a) loan program.
“Tom helped Richard and me throughout the entire loan process getting together the documentation needed for an SBA underwriting,” Smith said. “Without his hands-on knowledge of SBA’s loan process and the skill to direct us through the process, we wouldn’t have been able to save the company.”
White even served as the go between for West Union Bank and SBA’s Loan Guaranty Processing Center to resolve various underwriting issues.
Through the efforts of SBA and West Union Bank, on January 19, 2010, Troy received an SBA guaranteed revolving line of credit under the Contract CAPLine program which in essence saved the company from certain closure which would have dealt a significant economic blow to the local community.
To learn more about the SBA’s loan programs and services, visit their website at www.sba.gov .
With their corporate headquarters based in Troy, NH, the company decided to build an 85,000 square foot manufacturing facility in Harrisville in 1974 to enhance their growing automotive production line. Once the facility was completed, business remained steady for Troy until the latter 1990’s. That is when the automotive industry started to experience a downturn which was enhanced by the September 11, 2001 disaster.
“Troy was in the process of moving their entire automotive division to Harrisville in 2001 when they decided to file bankruptcy and had no plans to restructure, basically just shut the doors and put the employees out in the street,” said Kerns. “Marty Ballen, our CEO, and I both worked for Troy at the time and made a decision to purchase the facility. Troy was one of the largest employers in Harrisville and several families depended on the company for their livelihood. So on March 15, 2002, with some help from Mountaineer Capital and the West Virginia Jobs Investment Trust, Troy, LLC was established.”
Business was good for Troy until late 2008 when the automotive industry started experiencing a serious decline.
“The year 2009 was probably the worst year Troy had financially,” said Kerns. “We made various changes and restructuring during the year which helped us get by, but when our financial partner decided to call our line of credit, things looked pretty bleak.”
That is when the SBA and West Union Bank came to the rescue.
“Richard contacted me early last fall and asked if there was anything West Union Bank could do to help,” said Ed Smith, Senior Vice President at the bank. “Being a small community bank and with Troy needing a fairly large line of credit, I knew we couldn’t help without significant assistance through some sort of guarantor.”
Smith then contacted the SBA’s West Virginia District Office and talked to Tom White, a lender relations specialist. White and Deputy Director David Manley met with the Smith and Kerns to discuss the situation and come up with viable options to save the company.
“We all recognized from the beginning this would be an uphill battle, but one worth fighting,” said Smith. “In light of the economic stimulus programs and the large financial bailouts the government was providing at the time, this was a real need in a real life situation.”
White worked closely with the bank to put together a line of credit through SBA’s CAPLine program under the agency’s flagship 7(a) loan program.
“Tom helped Richard and me throughout the entire loan process getting together the documentation needed for an SBA underwriting,” Smith said. “Without his hands-on knowledge of SBA’s loan process and the skill to direct us through the process, we wouldn’t have been able to save the company.”
White even served as the go between for West Union Bank and SBA’s Loan Guaranty Processing Center to resolve various underwriting issues.
Through the efforts of SBA and West Union Bank, on January 19, 2010, Troy received an SBA guaranteed revolving line of credit under the Contract CAPLine program which in essence saved the company from certain closure which would have dealt a significant economic blow to the local community.
To learn more about the SBA’s loan programs and services, visit their website at www.sba.gov .
Upcoming workshop to focus on commercializing scientific discoveries
HUNTINGTON – The Marshall University Technology Transfer Office and TechConnectWV will present a free workshop, “The Roadmap from Laboratory to Market: Driving Scientific Discoveries to Commercialization,” on Monday, July 26.
Intended for scientists and engineers, the workshop will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Marshall University Foundation Hall, 519 John Marshall Dr., Huntington.
The program will focus on helping participants identify their role in commercializing their discoveries and tapping into a network of people who can help them. Topics will include investment capital, development assistance and take-to-market management talent.
The workshop will be led by Ron Basini, a consultant to the West Virginia Angel Network.
Basini has held faculty positions at business schools in North Carolina, Kentucky, Romania and Switzerland, and has raised millions of dollars in angel and venture capital for the four technology-based companies he founded. He also conducts new venture strategy, business plan writing, new management team training and strategic planning seminars around the world.
The West Virginia Angel Network was formed in 2008 by a group of individuals who make high-risk, potentially high-yield investments in startup companies. The network encourages applications from startup and early stage companies headquartered in West Virginia. Decisions on investing are made on an individual basis and are based on a wide range of criteria, including market growth potential, management team and customer base. For information about the West Virginia Angel Network, visit www.wvangel.net.
TechConnectWV is a coalition of professionals dedicated to growing and diversifying West Virginia’s economy by advancing technology‐based economic development. The group’s focus is the attraction and creation of innovation‐based companies and jobs, and advanced research and development in universities and the private sector. For more information about TechConnectWV, visit www.techconnectwv.org.
The workshop is being presented with financial assistance from Verizon. The program is free, but reservations are requested. Send reservations to tto@marshall.edu. For more information, contact Amy Melton at 304-696-4365.
Intended for scientists and engineers, the workshop will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Marshall University Foundation Hall, 519 John Marshall Dr., Huntington.
The program will focus on helping participants identify their role in commercializing their discoveries and tapping into a network of people who can help them. Topics will include investment capital, development assistance and take-to-market management talent.
The workshop will be led by Ron Basini, a consultant to the West Virginia Angel Network.
Basini has held faculty positions at business schools in North Carolina, Kentucky, Romania and Switzerland, and has raised millions of dollars in angel and venture capital for the four technology-based companies he founded. He also conducts new venture strategy, business plan writing, new management team training and strategic planning seminars around the world.
The West Virginia Angel Network was formed in 2008 by a group of individuals who make high-risk, potentially high-yield investments in startup companies. The network encourages applications from startup and early stage companies headquartered in West Virginia. Decisions on investing are made on an individual basis and are based on a wide range of criteria, including market growth potential, management team and customer base. For information about the West Virginia Angel Network, visit www.wvangel.net.
TechConnectWV is a coalition of professionals dedicated to growing and diversifying West Virginia’s economy by advancing technology‐based economic development. The group’s focus is the attraction and creation of innovation‐based companies and jobs, and advanced research and development in universities and the private sector. For more information about TechConnectWV, visit www.techconnectwv.org.
The workshop is being presented with financial assistance from Verizon. The program is free, but reservations are requested. Send reservations to tto@marshall.edu. For more information, contact Amy Melton at 304-696-4365.
July Open for Business Report released
CHARLESTON – Gov. Joe Manchin has released the latest “Open for Business” report documenting the state’s economic progress. The July 2010 report highlights projects and related announcements from businesses both large and small that will assist with the creation of new jobs and the preservation of existing jobs.
Morgantown hosts July 13 Manufacture America conference
The conference Manufacture America: Rethink, Retool and Rebuild to Support Jobs will be held on July 13 at West Virginia University’s National Research Center for Coal and Energy in Morgantown. Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration’s Manufacturing and Services unit, the event runs from 9:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Manufacture America program is designed to help American manufacturers rethink, retool and rebuild their operations through exploring new products, markets, processes and sources of finance. By looking at new markets and emerging and growing industries, and by improving processes and equipment to be more productive, efficient and sustainable, companies can find new ideas to become more competitive. To register for this event, visit http://trade.gov/manufactureamerica.
Energy firm to invest $25 million, create 280 jobs in West Virginia
Select Energy Services of Gainesville, Texas, recently purchased Arvilla Well Services LLC and Buckstone LLC in St. Marys. Select Energy plans to invest approximately $25 million, retain 119 employees and create approximately 280 new jobs in the process of developing Marcellus Shale in West Virginia. The company will undertake gas well construction and maintenance, gas well road construction, water hauling and other related activities.
Hino to add 50 jobs in Wood County to support production expansion
Hino Motors Manufacturing U.S.A. in Williamstown plans to expand its work force by temporarily adding 50 new employees. The new hires will receive training in anticipation of plans to boost production starting in late August or early September and continuing into 2011. Employment may extend beyond the first quarter of 2011 if market conditions dictate. The plant’s current output of eight trucks a day during one shift will be increased to 20 vehicles a day. The advanced technology on the 2011 model trucks will make Hino the only manufacturer of medium duty class trucks that meets new federal emission standards, without using credits.
DuPont hires 40 operators for Wood County facility
DuPont Washington Works recently hired 40 new process operators and announced plans to fill an additional 50 to 70 positions over the next 18 months. The first 20 process operators will report to work in July to begin a five-week training program. The second group of 20 will report for training in August. WorkForce West Virginia helped manage the application process. Wood County officials facilitated background checks that expedited the hiring. DuPont is interviewing for additional positions that will include chemical operators, process operators, material handling operators, electrical and instrument mechanics and area maintenance mechanics. The positions are open due to normal attrition. The company is filling the positions now because customer demand warrants hiring at this time.
Essroc hosts dedication of modernized cement plant in Berkeley County
Essroc dedicated the opening of its cement plant in Martinsburg with an open house in June. Over the last several years, Essroc invested more than $600 million in creating the newer, cleaner, more efficient facility. The updated plant shares the same footprint as the previous cement facility that occupied the same property but features several enhancements. Advances include an enclosed limestone storage dome and enclosed conveyor system that reduces dust, cement/concrete laboratories and a new control room/administration building. The plant reduced the number of mills and kiln lines required, yet is projected to increase production. Essroc is a member of the Italcementi Group, the fifth largest cement producer in the world.
Frontier, CWA, announce $310 million investment in West Virginia
Frontier Communications and Communications Workers of America (CWA) announced that Frontier has agreed to a $310 million investment in the state over the next three years. The funds are to be used for broadband deployment, service quality improvements and other capital expenditures. The Public Service Commission of West Virginia recently approved the sale of Verizon West Virginia landline assets to Frontier.
Monongalia biotech firm begins clinical trials in France to test new drug
Morgantown-based Protea Biosciences and French pharmaceutical manufacturer Mayoly Spindler are conducting human clinical trials in France to test a new drug designed to treat chronic pancreatic disease. Protea, a West Virginia University spin-off biotechnology firm, and Mayoly Spindler developed genetically engineered lipase. Lipase is an enzyme that breaks down fats in food so they can be digested. The goal of clinical trials is to prove the drug is safe and ready for market. Protea has exclusive rights to market lipase in North America.
Marion County technology firm on team awarded $317 million NOAA contract
Global Science & Technology (GST) in Fairmont is a subcontractor on the team awarded a contract from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The Research and Development High Performance Computing (HPC) System indefinite-delivery/indefinite quantity contract has a four-year base period with options. If all options are exercised, the contract has an estimated value of $317 million. The role of GST as a subcontractor is to provide services in data storage, engineering, operations and maintenance, systems administration and scientific visualization. The lead on the contract is Virginia-based CSC, a global leader in information technology services. The HPC program must support a large-scale computing approach to modeling weather, climate and ecological predictions.
Kanawha County firm inducted into CPM Hall of Fame
Charleston-based Global AlertLink has been inducted into the Contingency, Planning and Management (CPM) Hall of Fame. The CPM Hall of Fame includes prominent firms such as IBM and SunGard. Global AlertLink integrates emergency management, crisis management, automated notification and business continuity response planning into an automated tool. The CPM Hall of Fame was established in 1998 to recognize individuals and businesses that contribute to business continuity.
2010 Innovator Award recognizes TechConnectWV
TechConnectWV was recently recognized when the Southern Growth Policies Board gave its 2010 Innovator Award to West Virginia University for its leadership role in supporting the development of the program. A non-profit coalition of public and private partners, TechConnectWV promotes technology-based economic development throughout the state. In conjunction with Battelle, the organization spearheaded the development of the West Virginia Blueprint for Technology-based Economic Development. The blueprint outlines recommendations to help the state build on its existing strengths to boost the technology economy. The Southern Growth Policies Board is a regional public policy think tank based in Research Triangle Park, NC.
WVDO teams with Polymer Alliance Zone to promote state at Plastec East 2010
Representatives from the West Virginia Development Office participated with the staff of the Polymer Alliance Zone to exhibit at the Plastec East 2010 trade exhibition in New York City in June. The prominent international trade fair showcases advances in primary processing machinery, computer-aided design and manufacturing, production machinery, materials, molds, and mold components, automation technology, materials handling/ logistics and more.
West Virginia Development Office participates in industry exhibition
The West Virginia Development Office (WVDO), the West Virginia Division of Energy and local economic developers recently exhibited at the WINDPOWER conference and exhibition, held in Dallas, Texas. The conference is the premier wind energy event in North America. More than 23,000 attendees and 1,300 exhibitors participated in this year’s conference, offering opportunities for new players to enter the wind market and bring wind leaders together to address America’s economic, energy and climate changes..
WVDO participates in 2010 Miners’ Celebration in Raleigh County
The West Virginia Development Office (WVDO) was among the exhibitors at the 2010 Miners Celebration, held in June at the Resort at Glade Springs in Daniels. The event, organized by the Mine Safety Technology Consortium, draws mining industry professionals, manufacturers of mining equipment including safety and communications, and current and retired miners. Gov. Joe Manchin spoke in tribute to miners and their families. The celebration theme for this year was “Because of You.”
West Virginia Commerce Wins Nine PRSA Awards
The West Virginia Department of Commerce was among the state’s top winners in the annual awards presentation sponsored by the West Virginia Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA). The event was held on June 16 in Charleston. The agency took home nine PRSA awards, including three Crystal Awards. The awards showcase Department of Commerce efforts in promoting the state, its advantages, industries and small businesses through a variety of media channels.
The conference Manufacture America: Rethink, Retool and Rebuild to Support Jobs will be held on July 13 at West Virginia University’s National Research Center for Coal and Energy in Morgantown. Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration’s Manufacturing and Services unit, the event runs from 9:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Manufacture America program is designed to help American manufacturers rethink, retool and rebuild their operations through exploring new products, markets, processes and sources of finance. By looking at new markets and emerging and growing industries, and by improving processes and equipment to be more productive, efficient and sustainable, companies can find new ideas to become more competitive. To register for this event, visit http://trade.gov/manufactureamerica.
Energy firm to invest $25 million, create 280 jobs in West Virginia
Select Energy Services of Gainesville, Texas, recently purchased Arvilla Well Services LLC and Buckstone LLC in St. Marys. Select Energy plans to invest approximately $25 million, retain 119 employees and create approximately 280 new jobs in the process of developing Marcellus Shale in West Virginia. The company will undertake gas well construction and maintenance, gas well road construction, water hauling and other related activities.
Hino to add 50 jobs in Wood County to support production expansion
Hino Motors Manufacturing U.S.A. in Williamstown plans to expand its work force by temporarily adding 50 new employees. The new hires will receive training in anticipation of plans to boost production starting in late August or early September and continuing into 2011. Employment may extend beyond the first quarter of 2011 if market conditions dictate. The plant’s current output of eight trucks a day during one shift will be increased to 20 vehicles a day. The advanced technology on the 2011 model trucks will make Hino the only manufacturer of medium duty class trucks that meets new federal emission standards, without using credits.
DuPont hires 40 operators for Wood County facility
DuPont Washington Works recently hired 40 new process operators and announced plans to fill an additional 50 to 70 positions over the next 18 months. The first 20 process operators will report to work in July to begin a five-week training program. The second group of 20 will report for training in August. WorkForce West Virginia helped manage the application process. Wood County officials facilitated background checks that expedited the hiring. DuPont is interviewing for additional positions that will include chemical operators, process operators, material handling operators, electrical and instrument mechanics and area maintenance mechanics. The positions are open due to normal attrition. The company is filling the positions now because customer demand warrants hiring at this time.
Essroc hosts dedication of modernized cement plant in Berkeley County
Essroc dedicated the opening of its cement plant in Martinsburg with an open house in June. Over the last several years, Essroc invested more than $600 million in creating the newer, cleaner, more efficient facility. The updated plant shares the same footprint as the previous cement facility that occupied the same property but features several enhancements. Advances include an enclosed limestone storage dome and enclosed conveyor system that reduces dust, cement/concrete laboratories and a new control room/administration building. The plant reduced the number of mills and kiln lines required, yet is projected to increase production. Essroc is a member of the Italcementi Group, the fifth largest cement producer in the world.
Frontier, CWA, announce $310 million investment in West Virginia
Frontier Communications and Communications Workers of America (CWA) announced that Frontier has agreed to a $310 million investment in the state over the next three years. The funds are to be used for broadband deployment, service quality improvements and other capital expenditures. The Public Service Commission of West Virginia recently approved the sale of Verizon West Virginia landline assets to Frontier.
Monongalia biotech firm begins clinical trials in France to test new drug
Morgantown-based Protea Biosciences and French pharmaceutical manufacturer Mayoly Spindler are conducting human clinical trials in France to test a new drug designed to treat chronic pancreatic disease. Protea, a West Virginia University spin-off biotechnology firm, and Mayoly Spindler developed genetically engineered lipase. Lipase is an enzyme that breaks down fats in food so they can be digested. The goal of clinical trials is to prove the drug is safe and ready for market. Protea has exclusive rights to market lipase in North America.
Marion County technology firm on team awarded $317 million NOAA contract
Global Science & Technology (GST) in Fairmont is a subcontractor on the team awarded a contract from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The Research and Development High Performance Computing (HPC) System indefinite-delivery/indefinite quantity contract has a four-year base period with options. If all options are exercised, the contract has an estimated value of $317 million. The role of GST as a subcontractor is to provide services in data storage, engineering, operations and maintenance, systems administration and scientific visualization. The lead on the contract is Virginia-based CSC, a global leader in information technology services. The HPC program must support a large-scale computing approach to modeling weather, climate and ecological predictions.
Kanawha County firm inducted into CPM Hall of Fame
Charleston-based Global AlertLink has been inducted into the Contingency, Planning and Management (CPM) Hall of Fame. The CPM Hall of Fame includes prominent firms such as IBM and SunGard. Global AlertLink integrates emergency management, crisis management, automated notification and business continuity response planning into an automated tool. The CPM Hall of Fame was established in 1998 to recognize individuals and businesses that contribute to business continuity.
2010 Innovator Award recognizes TechConnectWV
TechConnectWV was recently recognized when the Southern Growth Policies Board gave its 2010 Innovator Award to West Virginia University for its leadership role in supporting the development of the program. A non-profit coalition of public and private partners, TechConnectWV promotes technology-based economic development throughout the state. In conjunction with Battelle, the organization spearheaded the development of the West Virginia Blueprint for Technology-based Economic Development. The blueprint outlines recommendations to help the state build on its existing strengths to boost the technology economy. The Southern Growth Policies Board is a regional public policy think tank based in Research Triangle Park, NC.
WVDO teams with Polymer Alliance Zone to promote state at Plastec East 2010
Representatives from the West Virginia Development Office participated with the staff of the Polymer Alliance Zone to exhibit at the Plastec East 2010 trade exhibition in New York City in June. The prominent international trade fair showcases advances in primary processing machinery, computer-aided design and manufacturing, production machinery, materials, molds, and mold components, automation technology, materials handling/ logistics and more.
West Virginia Development Office participates in industry exhibition
The West Virginia Development Office (WVDO), the West Virginia Division of Energy and local economic developers recently exhibited at the WINDPOWER conference and exhibition, held in Dallas, Texas. The conference is the premier wind energy event in North America. More than 23,000 attendees and 1,300 exhibitors participated in this year’s conference, offering opportunities for new players to enter the wind market and bring wind leaders together to address America’s economic, energy and climate changes..
WVDO participates in 2010 Miners’ Celebration in Raleigh County
The West Virginia Development Office (WVDO) was among the exhibitors at the 2010 Miners Celebration, held in June at the Resort at Glade Springs in Daniels. The event, organized by the Mine Safety Technology Consortium, draws mining industry professionals, manufacturers of mining equipment including safety and communications, and current and retired miners. Gov. Joe Manchin spoke in tribute to miners and their families. The celebration theme for this year was “Because of You.”
West Virginia Commerce Wins Nine PRSA Awards
The West Virginia Department of Commerce was among the state’s top winners in the annual awards presentation sponsored by the West Virginia Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA). The event was held on June 16 in Charleston. The agency took home nine PRSA awards, including three Crystal Awards. The awards showcase Department of Commerce efforts in promoting the state, its advantages, industries and small businesses through a variety of media channels.
West Virginia’s June Unemployment Rate rises to 8.6 percent
CHARLESTON — West Virginia’s unemployment rate inched upward one-tenth of a percentage point to 8.6 percent in June, WorkForce West Virginia has reported. The number of unemployed state residents rose 700 to 68,000. Total unemployment was down 2,000 over the year.
Total nonfarm payroll employment declined 1,400, where a loss of 2,500 in the service-providing sector offset a gain of 1,100 in the goods-producing sector.
Within the goods-producing sector, gains of 900 in construction and 400 in manufacturing easily overpowered a decline of 200 in mining and logging. Employment gains within the service-providing sector included 2,400 in leisure and hospitality, 800 in trade, transportation, and utilities, 300 in information, 200 in financial activities, and 100 in professional and business services. Employment declines were fueled by a seasonal decline in government, which fell 6,200. Educational and health services slipped 100, while employment in other services was unchanged over the month.
Since June 2009, total nonfarm payroll employment has fallen 7,000, with a decline of 7,100 in the service-providing sector overpowering a slight gain of 100 in the goods-producing sector. Employment gains included 1,600 in educational and health services, 900 in construction, 500 in other services, and 400 in leisure and hospitality.
Employment declines included 5,700 in government, 2,300 in trade, transportation, and utilities, 1,100 in financial activities, 700 in mining and logging, 500 in professional and business services, and 100 in manufacturing. Information employment was unchanged over the year.
West Virginia’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate declined four-tenths of a percentage point to 8.5 percent, while the national rate declined two-tenths of a percentage point to 9.5 percent.
Total nonfarm payroll employment declined 1,400, where a loss of 2,500 in the service-providing sector offset a gain of 1,100 in the goods-producing sector.
Within the goods-producing sector, gains of 900 in construction and 400 in manufacturing easily overpowered a decline of 200 in mining and logging. Employment gains within the service-providing sector included 2,400 in leisure and hospitality, 800 in trade, transportation, and utilities, 300 in information, 200 in financial activities, and 100 in professional and business services. Employment declines were fueled by a seasonal decline in government, which fell 6,200. Educational and health services slipped 100, while employment in other services was unchanged over the month.
Since June 2009, total nonfarm payroll employment has fallen 7,000, with a decline of 7,100 in the service-providing sector overpowering a slight gain of 100 in the goods-producing sector. Employment gains included 1,600 in educational and health services, 900 in construction, 500 in other services, and 400 in leisure and hospitality.
Employment declines included 5,700 in government, 2,300 in trade, transportation, and utilities, 1,100 in financial activities, 700 in mining and logging, 500 in professional and business services, and 100 in manufacturing. Information employment was unchanged over the year.
West Virginia’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate declined four-tenths of a percentage point to 8.5 percent, while the national rate declined two-tenths of a percentage point to 9.5 percent.
WVU teams with GlobalPittsburgh for expansion of international programs for the Mountain State
MORGANTOWN – West Virginia University has teamed with a Pittsburgh-based non-profit group to secure a $68,000 grant from the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation to engage international companies, organizations and individuals in a variety of initiatives that will bolster economic development in West Virginia.
WVU and GlobalPittsburgh are combining efforts to bring new opportunities to West Virginia by hosting increased numbers of international visitors to the region. The goal is to increase international awareness and student recruitment, as well as active partnerships that might lead to increased regional economic development.
WVU will participate in the partnership by providing staff support to coordinate international visitors for the University and its partners in academic, cultural and economic endeavors. The grant will enable better integration among University units and outreach to various resources in the region.
Michael Wilhelm, director of the Office of International Students and Scholars at WVU said the grant will allow WVU to have a dedicated staff member in place to help with the planning and logistics of international visitors when they are coming to campus.
The WVU Office of Research and Economic Development, the WVU Office of International Students and Scholars and the WVU Office of International Programs are heading plans for WVU’s participation. Increased connections will enhance current efforts to promote international education and cultural exchange; advance research and service by integrating global citizenry; and generate economic activity through worldwide partnerships.
GlobalPittsburgh and WVU welcome volunteers and hosts to act as dinner hosts, tour guides, home stay hosts and drivers for visiting delegations and individuals. WVU’s Office of International Students and Scholars can be reached at 304-293-3519.
Curt Peterson, WVU vice president of Research and Economic Development, said, “the partnership is consistent with the new trends promoting regional economic development. Increased connectivity between WVU, the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon, along with business diversity efforts and the area’s similar economic assets make this type of coordination an imperative.”
For more than 50 years, GlobalPittsburgh has forged cultural, educational and business relationships between the Greater Pittsburgh Region and the global community through citizen diplomacy – connecting people and institutions in the region with audiences around the world through a wide range of hosting, training, networking, educational and outreach programs.
For more than 50 years, GlobalPittsburgh has forged cultural, educational and business relationships between the Greater Pittsburgh Region and the global community through citizen diplomacy – connecting people and institutions in the region with audiences around the world through a wide range of hosting, training, networking, educational and outreach programs.
Global Pittsburgh engages international delegations, groups and individuals by creating itineraries and facilitating introductions through the U.S. Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program and other international organizations in the fields of energy & environment, life sciences & medicine, education, business & technology, clean/green design, advanced manufacturing, arts & culture, government & finance, social services & law and other areas.
For more information about Global Pittsburgh programs, visit www.GlobalPittsburgh.org .
For more information about Global Pittsburgh programs, visit www.GlobalPittsburgh.org .
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