Charleston, W.Va. (WVDN) – The tenth annual National SBDC Day will take place on Wednesday, March 18. Since its inception in 2017, the celebration recognizes the work of the nationwide network of Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) and their collective accomplishments in helping America’s small businesses succeed.
“Representing over 98 percent of our companies and employing nearly half of our workforce, small businesses are still the heart of the Mountain State. The West Virginia Small Business Development Center (WV SBDC) remains committed to our mission to support these ventures and entrepreneurs in achieving their goals through no-cost, one-on-one coaching; specialized training and valuable resource connections,” WV SBDC Director, Will Miller, said.
At 10 a.m. on National SBDC Day, the WV SBDC is partnering with the Small Business Administration (SBA) West Virginia District Office for a free webinar, titled “Your Small Business Dream Team: SBA + SBDC Overview.” Attendees will learn how these two entities work together to support entrepreneurs at every stage of business and receive information about funding opportunities, advising services and free resources designed to help you start, grow and succeed. Register online at www.sba.gov/event/81486.
“On National SBDC Day, we recognize the vital role our partners at the West Virginia Small Business Development Center play in strengthening West Virginia’s small business communities. The SBDC network is an essential partner to the U.S. Small Business Administration, helping entrepreneurs access the counseling, resources, and expertise they need to start, grow, and thrive. Together, we are empowering small businesses across the Mountain State and ensuring they have the support needed to turn their ideas into lasting economic opportunities,” Karen Friel, District Director for the SBA West Virginia District Office, said.
The WV SBDC serves all 55 counties through 14 centers, each staffed by experienced business coaches. In 2025, the WV SBDC served 1,498 clients and conducted 8,255 hours of business coaching. One hundred one new businesses were started, 360 jobs were created, and over $30 million in capital funding was secured for clients. Entrepreneurs and small business owners interested in WV SBDC business coaching can sign up to become a client online at wvsbdc.com.
About the West Virginia Small Business Development Center
The West Virginia Small Business Development Center, an accredited partner program with the U.S. Small Business Administration and a division of the West Virginia Division of Economic Development, helps small businesses at all stages of development by connecting entrepreneurs to coaching, training, and resources.
WV SBDC business coaches hold professional certifications, including Certified Business Advisor® (CBA) and Entrepreneurship Development Professional (EDP), and hold MBAs, with expertise in design thinking, AI, cybersecurity, exporting, technology, innovation, manufacturing, finance, management, HR, and marketing.
This program is supported by federal funding. Full disclosures available at wvsbdc.com/fundingdisclosure.
For more information about the WV SBDC and its services, visit wvsbdc.com.
