NRGRDA and WV Hive: Driving Small Business Growth and Workforce Development in Southern West Virginia | By Judy Moore

Southern West Virginia is undergoing an economic transformation, and at the heart of this resurgence is the New River Gorge Regional Development Authority (NRGRDA) and the WV Hive Network, its entrepreneurship program. Together, these organizations serve as a hub of activity for small business support, workforce development, and community-driven innovation. By leading efforts to close skills gaps and provide essential training, NRGRDA and WV Hive are equipping entrepreneurs and workers with the tools they need to succeed in today’s evolving economy. 

As the demand for skilled workers grows and industries shift, workforce training has never been more critical. NRGRDA and WV Hive are taking a proactive approach to ensuring that businesses, employees, and job seekers have access to training programs that meet the specific needs of the region. This includes soft skills training, technical training, and specialized programs that directly address economic gaps and business needs. By working with strategic initiatives such as PATTERN, an initiative of the NRGRDA, and partnership programs such as Communities of Healing, ZingTrain, and the Food Finance Institute, NRGRDA and WV Hive are leading the charge in developing a workforce for the future. 

Addressing the Skills Gap Through Innovative Training Programs 

A strong workforce starts with strong skills. Many businesses in Southern West Virginia are struggling to find qualified workers who not only possess technical skills but also critical soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and adaptability. To bridge this gap, WV Hive and NRGRDA have introduced pre-higher education skills development programs designed to meet the needs of businesses and job seekers alike. 

PATTERN: Building a Textile and Sewing Manufacturing Center 

NRGRDA is developing PATTERN (Planning and Accelerating Textile Technology and Entrepreneurship Regional Network), an initiative dedicated to developing a textile sewing and manufacturing center in Southern West Virginia. This center will provide industrial sewing training, workforce development, and small-scale textile production opportunities. The program is designed to help entrepreneurs, artisans, and workers gain skills in industrial sewing, pattern making, and apparel production, addressing both regional and national demands for skilled textile workers. 

PATTERN will not only train workers in specialized sewing techniques but also foster entrepreneurship by supporting local designers and small-scale textile manufacturers. The initiative aims to position Southern West Virginia as a hub for textile innovation, creating new economic opportunities in fashion, workwear, and outdoor gear manufacturing. 

This project is a game-changer for workforce development, offering high-demand skills training while simultaneously cultivating a new industry in the region. 

Recovery-to-Work Training Through Communities of Healing 

West Virginia has been deeply impacted by the opioid crisis, but recovery-to-work programs are proving to be a key driver of workforce renewal. NRGRDA and WV Hive served as key partners in supporting the Communities of Healing program, led by Fruits of Labor, which helps individuals in recovery re-enter the workforce through meaningful employment and entrepreneurship opportunities. 

This program connects recovery-friendly employers with workers who have completed treatment and are looking for stable, fulfilling careers. By providing mentorship, training, and workplace support, the Communities of Healing initiative broke down barriers to employment and fostered a supportive environment for individuals in recovery. 

The initiative is a model for how economic development and recovery support can intersect, creating a healthier workforce and stronger businesses in the process. 

Customer Service Training from ZingTrain 

Customer service is a vital component of many industries in Southern West Virginia, from tourism and hospitality to retail and small business operations. Recognizing the need for top-tier customer service skills, WV Hive has partnered with ZingTrain, a nationally recognized training provider known for its innovative approach to service excellence. 

ZingTrain’s program focuses on communication, problem-solving, and relationship-building—all essential components of delivering exceptional customer experiences. By bringing this training to local businesses, NRGRDA and WV Hive are enhancing the service industry, strengthening local businesses, and ensuring that visitors and customers have memorable interactions that encourage repeat business. 

Food Business Training Through the Food Finance Institute 

Southern West Virginia’s food industry has incredible potential, and NRGRDA and WV Hive are investing in training programs to help food entrepreneurs succeed. Through a partnership with the Food Finance Institute, WV Hive is offering a Food Bootcamp training program designed to provide food business owners with financial knowledge, business strategy, and operational expertise needed to grow and scale. 

This training is especially valuable for small-scale food producers, food truck operators, restaurateurs, and value-added food businesses looking to expand their reach. With access to capital, supply chain management insights, and market development strategies, food entrepreneurs are better positioned to create sustainable and profitable businesses. 

A Vision for the Future 

NRGRDA and WV Hive’s commitment to small business support and workforce development is reshaping the region’s economic landscape. By introducing training programs that meet industry-specific needs and fostering entrepreneurship at every level, they are ensuring that Southern West Virginia remains a place where businesses can start, grow, and thrive. 

Through these strategic initiatives and innovative programs, NRGRDA and WV Hive is not only helping individuals gain skills and employment but also strengthening entire communities by investing in long-term, sustainable economic development. 

The work being done today is setting the stage for a more resilient, diverse, and opportunity-rich economy—one where businesses are supported, workers are empowered, and Southern West Virginia is recognized as a hub of entrepreneurial energy and workforce excellence. 

For small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs NRGRDA and WV Hive are the go-to resources for support, training, and success. The momentum is growing, and the future is bright for those ready to take the next step in their business or career journey.