Beckley, W.Va. (October 31, 2024) – Leaders of the West Virginia Hive announced today the five entrepreneurs who will be presenting their business strategies at the November 14, 2024, Pitch Southern West Virginia Business Idea Competition on the campus of West Virginia University Institute of Technology (WVU Tech).

Diana Woods, coordinator of the event, said entries received on October 15 were scored by outside judges, and the in-person presentation line-up includes:

• Derek Miller – Waymaker’s Meadows – Monroe County
• Liz Reynolds – Appalachian Traditions – Fayette County
• Keatley Michael – WVU Tech – Raleigh County
• Jeff Webb – Trails Edge Coffee and Boba – Raleigh County
• Alexander Durand – Mountain Table – Greenbrier County

Woods said on November 14 a panel of expert judges will select the winners and award more than $5,000 in prizes, with first and second place prizes at $2,500 and $1,000, respectively, and three Honorable Mention prizes of $500 each.

In addition, the finalist receiving the most votes from the audience in attendance will receive $250 as the “Audience Favorite.”

“We’re excited to hear from our five finalists, each bringing fresh ideas to grow their business and create exciting new opportunities for Southern West Virginia,” said Woods.

Funds for the awards have been contributed by private sponsors, including gold sponsors United Bank and New River Gorge Regional Development Authority and bronze sponsors Beckley-Raleigh County Chamber of Commerce and First Community Bank. Prize money must be used to further the business idea.

“We are so grateful for our sponsors for providing cash prizes that help entrepreneurs bring their ideas to life,” said Judy Moore, deputy director of the New River Gorge Regional Development Authority and executive director of the WV Hive. “Their support makes a real difference by giving these entrepreneurs the boost they need to take the next big step. We truly appreciate their generosity.”

During the in-person competition, each entrepreneur will have five minutes to present their business idea to a panel of judges and explain why it is innovative and how it will make a difference to residents of southern West Virginia. Each presentation will be followed by a brief question and answer period with the judges.

Entries were open to residents and businesses located in Raleigh, Fayette, Nicholas, Summers, Webster, Pocahontas, Greenbrier, Monroe, Mercer, Wyoming, McDowell, Logan and Mingo Counties and WVU Tech students.

There is no cost to attend the business pitch event from 5:30 – 8 p.m. on November 14 at WVU Tech, 100 Mel Hancock Way, Beckley, but registration is required. Register here.

The WV Hive is the entrepreneurship program of the New River Gorge Regional Development Authority. More information about the WV Hive can be found at wvhive.com.