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Thank you for your interest in innovation-based economic development in West Virginia. We hope you join us in celebrating the state's technology sector and in working towards a more robust and diverse economy across the Mountain State.

Tech Trailblazers Podcast: Logan Cuvo & Best Dam Tape – West Virginia Grit on Ice

To listen, click here​

What does hockey tape have to do with West Virginia entrepreneurship? More than you might think. In a market dominated by a few legacy brands, West Virginia founder Logan Cuvo is carving out space for Best Dam Tape, a niche sports-tape company built on performance, authenticity, and the relentless grit our state is known for.

TechConnect featured Cuvo recently on the Tech Trailblazers podcast. The episode is filled with inspiring stories, entrepreneurial advice, and a St. Bernard cameo! To listen, click here.

​From the rink to the startup world

Cuvo’s journey started long before pitch decks and accelerators—it began on the ice. As a competitive hockey player, he kept running into the same problem: uninspired tape, little real innovation, and brands that didn’t speak to athletes who care deeply about performance and feel. That frustration became a question—why shouldn’t hockey tape be better?—and that question became Best Dam Tape.

Building from scratch in West Virginia

Like many West Virginia founders, Cuvo chose the hard way: bootstrapping. He sourced materials, built a brand, launched e-commerce, and started winning over athletes one roll at a time. Along the way, he drew a clear connection between the resilience of West Virginians and the demands of startup life—long hours, tough breaks, and a constant need to adapt. For Cuvo, the character that defines our state is the same character you need to compete in a monopoly-dominated market.

“The grit of West Virginia excites me,” he says—and it shows in how he’s building.

The power of entrepreneurial community

Cuvo didn’t do it alone. He credits mentor James Carnes, WVU entrepreneurship programs, and the Seed Spot Retail Brand Accelerator for helping shape Best Dam Tape’s early growth. These supports offered structure, feedback, and a community of peers—proof that when West Virginia founders plug into strong entrepreneurial infrastructure, they can move faster and think bigger.

“Just do it — there’s no better time,” Cuvo says to aspiring founders who may be hesitating on their first idea. His story is a powerful reminder that with the right mix of local support and personal grit, a student with an insight on the ice can become a founder taking on national incumbents.

Why this story matters to TechConnect

At TechConnect West Virginia, we champion innovators who are redefining what’s possible from right here at home—and Cuvo is a standout example. Best Dam Tape shows that niche, high-performance products can be envisioned, launched, and scaled from West Virginia, while staying rooted in our culture of perseverance and community.

Want to be part of Tech Trailblazers?

Just fill out ​this quick form​ to share a bit about yourself and your availability.

If you join us a guest, here’s what to expect:

· A relaxed, friendly conversation (30–45 minutes)

· A focus on your story — what you’re building, why it matters, and what it’s like innovating in WV

· Professional editing and promotion by TechConnect WV

· Opportunities to be featured beyond the podcast, like in our newsletters, blogs, and social media

We’ll schedule recordings on a rolling basis, and of course, there’s no cost to participate.

WV SBDC Announces AI Pitch Competition, With Awards Up to $50,000 in Professional Services, for Small Businesses to be Held During Bridging Innovation Week

Registration to pitch or attend is now open!

The West Virginia Small Business Development Center (WV SBDC) is partnering with Amazon Web Services (AWS), PREDICTif Solutions/nClouds and TechConnect West Virginia for a small business AI Pitch Competition on Monday, April 27, from 3-5 PM, at the Morgantown Marriott at Waterfront Place as part of 2026 Bridging Innovation Week.

Entrepreneurs and small business owners interested in participating in the pitch competition must register online at bit.ly/AWS-AI-Pitch-Apply-Now by Friday, April 17, 2026, at 11:59 PM.

“We know that the use of Artificial Intelligence tools continues to rise, and that small businesses are implementing these technologies in a number of ways in their strategy and operations,” says WV SBDC State Director, Will Miller. “This pitch competition is a significant opportunity for West Virginia entrepreneurs to showcase their AI-driven innovations and potentially receive thousands in professional services to bring their idea to life. We are grateful for our partners and their support of small businesses.”

Up to 10 West Virginia small businesses will be selected to present their pitches to AWS leaders and industry experts for a chance to be awarded up to $50,000 in AWS professional services that can be allocated toward technical resources, architectural support and solution development delivered by PREDICTif in collaboration with AWS (subject to program eligibility and scope).

Pitch applications will be evaluated by a review committee using criteria such as innovation, business potential, feasibility, and alignment with AI solutions. All applicants will be notified by email of their status, and those selected to pitch will receive full event details, presentation guidelines, and preparation instructions. Even if not selected, we encourage everyone to attend, support fellow innovators, and connect with AWS and AI experts.

The event is free and open to the public, but registration is required to attend. Visit bit.ly/AWS-AI-Pitch-Event-Register-Now to register and for more information. Email the West Virginia Small Business Development Center at askme@wv.gov with any questions.

🎉 Governor Signs Bill Creating West Virginia Office of Entrepreneurship Under Secretary of State 🎉

The new office, led by Secretary of State Kris Warner, is designed to help entrepreneurs navigate state agencies and launch businesses in West Virginia.

Gov. Patrick Morrisey has signed legislation establishing the West Virginia Office of Entrepreneurship, a new initiative aimed at supporting business startups and small business growth across the state.

The measure, Senate Bill 878, was signed into law at the State Capitol and will take effect July 1.

According to state officials, the new office will operate under the leadership of Secretary of State Kris Warner, making it the first office of its kind in the nation to function under a statewide elected official. Similar offices exist in eight other states but are typically housed within agencies or authorities.

"Today is a giant leap forward for entrepreneurs and entrepreneurship in West Virginia," Warner said following the bill signing.

The Office of Entrepreneurship is designed to help business founders navigate the early stages of launching a company. The initiative was proposed by Warner and developed in collaboration with partners across the state’s entrepreneurship network, including the Benedum Foundation, the West Virginia Small Business Development Center, West Virginia University, Marshall University, the University of Charleston and the national Right to Start organization.

"I want to thank the West Virginia legislature and Governor Morrisey for their confidence and support. Now, the Secretary of State's Office of Entrepreneurship is the tip of the spear for helping stakeholders navigate red tape to create a vibrant ecosystem for entrepreneurs and small businesses to thrive and grow," Warner said. Read more​

​Vantage Ventures Accelerator Program Accepting Applications​

Vantage Ventures provides structured, direct, hands-on support to scalable early-stage startups in West Virginia through an accelerator program that helps startups test critical assumptions, create prototypes and products, gain early traction with customers, and prepare to pitch investors. Accepted applicants to the Accelerator Program will receive up to $10,000 in technical assistance funding provided by the federal government's Economic Development Agency as well as access to free co-working space in Reynolds Hall and at Ascend WV locations across the state. To learn more, or to apply, click here.

​Grow Your Startup: Apply for gBETA at Marshall's iCenter Summer 2026​

gBETA at Marshall’s iCenter Powered by Quality Insights is a is a free, seven-week accelerator for early-stage companies with local roots in West Virginia. All West Virginia-based, high-growth startups are encouraged to apply. This program is industry-agnostic, with a slight preference for Marshall University's focus areas of distinction: advanced energy, advanced manufacturing, aviation, cyber security, health care, and entrepreneurship. Learn more about gBETA at Marshall's iCenter Summer 2026 and apply today!

Become A Member of TechConnect!

TechConnect West Virginia has launched a new membership program to strengthen and connect our state’s tech, startup, and innovation ecosystem!

TCWV membership is more than a subscription; it’s a way to actively participate in building West Virginia’s innovation-driven economy.

As a member, you’ll gain:

• Access to statewide programs, events, and early opportunities
• Increased visibility through member spotlights and listings
• A voice in the future of TechConnect WV and the ecosystem
• Direct connection to founders, startups, and partners across the state

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, startup, institution, or ecosystem partner, there’s a membership tier designed for you.

Join today by clicking here and become a Founding Member.

​Bridging Innovation Week 2026 Registration Now Open: West Virginia’s Premier Entrepreneurship Event Heads to Morgantown​

The West Virginia Entrepreneurship Ecosystem (WVEE) is proud to announce that registration is officially open for Bridging Innovation Week 2026. This year’s week-long celebration of innovation, small business, and economic growth will take place from April 27 to May 1, 2026.

Now in its fifth year, Bridging Innovation Week has become the cornerstone event for the state’s entrepreneurial community. The 2026 program features a robust lineup of educational programming, pitch competitions, hands-on workshops, and networking activities designed to connect business owners with the resources they need to scale.

“Bridging Innovation Week is more than just an annual event; it’s a movement that proves West Virginia is a national leader in grassroots innovation and entrepreneurship,” said Amber Ravenscroft, WVEE Director. “Our strong partnerships help us provide a world-class stage for West Virginia entrepreneurs to shine. We invite every dreamer, builder, and leader to join us in Morgantown this April.”

Registration & Full Agenda: Attendees can now view the full 2026 program and secure their tickets via the event website.

​TechConnect WV Entrepreneur Support Application​​

At TechConnect West Virginia, we believe that the future of our state depends on the bold ideas and resilient spirit of entrepreneurs like you. Whether you’re just getting started or scaling your tech business, we want to support your journey.

If you’re interested in assistance to move your tech concept or business forward, please click this link and complete the brief application.

This helps us get to know you better—both as a founder and as a person. It also helps us improve our programs and advocate for funding to bring more resources to West Virginia’s innovation ecosystem.

​Want to Feature Your Tech Business?​

Are you building something exciting in West Virginia's tech ecosystem? We want to hear from you!

TechConnect WV is proud to highlight entrepreneurs, startups, and tech innovators across the Mountain State. If you'd like to be considered for a spotlight in our monthly newsletter, please fill out the form at this link. Our team will reach out if you're selected for an upcoming feature.

​Marshall Partners With FASTER WV On Entrepreneurship Microcredential Series​

Marshall University has partnered with Advantage Valley’s FASTER WV to launch a new entrepreneurship microcredential series designed to help aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners develop the skills needed to start, grow and sustain successful businesses.

​Small Business And Entrepreneurship Growth A Point Of Focus For Secretary Of State’s Office​

Entrepreneurs and small business owners in the Mountain State have gotten some extra support with the passage of new legislation. Secretary of State Kris Warner met with local businesses across the state as part of a renewed focus on entrepreneurship. Legislators approved Senate Bill 878 creating the Office of Entrepreneurship. Secretary Warner said the passage of the bill is a win for West Virginia.

​University of Charleston Business Accelerator Program​

The Downtown Innovation Hub at the University of Charleston is more than a space. It’s a launchpad for change. Located in the heart of the capital city, the Hub brings together students, entrepreneurs, business leaders, and community changemakers to explore, experiment, and elevate ideas that drive meaningful progress.

The Downtown Innovation Hub’s flagship initiative is the Business Accelerator Program, which helps launch and grow small businesses across West Virginia. Through mentorship, networking, and hands-on support, the program equips entrepreneurs with the tools to succeed. Each new cohort brings fresh energy and innovation, strengthening Charleston’s economy and reinforcing UC’s role as a hub for business growth. Learn more by clicking here!

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