Goldman Sachs' 10,000 Small Businesses program has graduated 26 small business owners in West Virginia as part of its $100 million investment in rural communities. This initiative aims to support entrepreneurs with training, access to capital, and personalized services. The program is designed for a range of sectors including manufacturing, food and beverage, and healthcare.
The Investment in Rural Communities targets small business owners across 20 states over five years, with West Virginia being the seventh state included. In West Virginia, small businesses represent 98.8% of all businesses and employ nearly half the workforce. BridgeValley Community & Technical College facilitated the program's 12-week curriculum covering topics like marketing and operations.
"Goldman Sachs stands with West Virginia small businesses," said John F.W. Rogers, Executive Vice President of Goldman Sachs. "This new graduating class is proof that the American dream is alive in the Mountain State."
Asahi Pompey, Global Head of Corporate Engagement at Goldman Sachs, stated: "The economic power and potential of entrepreneurs in West Virginia cannot be overlooked."
John McCuskey, West Virginia State Auditor and Attorney General-Elect emphasized the importance of equipping small businesses with necessary skills for success.
Dr. Casey Sacks from BridgeValley Community and Technical College praised the dedication of participating entrepreneurs.
Goldman Sachs has also partnered with Appalachian Community Capital to provide $5 million in lending capital to CDFIs supporting underserved communities. This includes $1 million specifically for Partner Community Capital in West Virginia.
Donna Gambrell from Appalachian Community Capital expressed confidence in empowering regional entrepreneurs through this partnership.
Christian Higgins, co-founder of Brownie House and a graduate of the program shared his positive experience: "When I first started my business, I lacked guidance... Now I have a community contributing to local economies."
The program’s impact report reveals alumni generate over $27.7 billion in revenue nationally with nearly 310,000 employees after almost 15 years.