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West Virginia Passes Bipartisan Small Business Growth Act

  //business-finance.news-articles.net/content/202 .. passes-bipartisan-small-business-growth-act.html
  Published in Business and Finance on Wednesday, February 18th 2026 at 9:49 GMT by The Herald-Dispatch
      Locales: West Virginia, UNITED STATES

CHARLESTON, WV - February 18th, 2026 - West Virginia stands on the cusp of a potential small business renaissance following the unanimous passage of the Bipartisan Small Business Growth Act by both houses of the state legislature today. The bill, a rare example of true cross-party collaboration in the current political climate, now awaits the signature of Governor Jim Justice and is expected to be signed into law within the week.

Introduced by Republican Senator Chandler Swope of Cabell County and Democratic Delegate Paul Roten of Kanawha County, the Act addresses long-standing challenges faced by West Virginia's entrepreneurs and small business owners. For years, navigating the state's complex web of grant and loan programs has been a significant barrier to entry and growth. The Act aims to dismantle this obstacle through the creation of a single, consolidated application process. Currently, businesses seeking financial assistance often find themselves completing multiple applications, each with its own unique requirements and timelines, leading to wasted time, resources, and ultimately, discouraged applicants.

The consolidation is expected to significantly streamline the process, making it easier for businesses - particularly those with limited administrative capacity - to access crucial funding. Experts estimate that the current system requires an average of 40 hours of staff time to complete all necessary applications for potential funding opportunities. The new system is projected to reduce this burden by at least 60%, freeing up valuable resources for businesses to focus on their core operations and expansion plans.

Beyond simplifying access to capital, the Act also introduces a novel tax credit designed to incentivize corporate social responsibility and further bolster the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Businesses that donate to registered entrepreneurship programs within the state will be eligible for a tax credit, effectively rewarding their investment in the next generation of West Virginian business leaders. This provision is seen as a creative way to encourage private sector involvement in fostering innovation and economic development.

Senator Swope emphasized the long-term vision behind the bill. "This isn't just about providing short-term relief; it's about building a sustainable foundation for long-term economic growth," he stated in a press release. "By removing unnecessary hurdles and incentivizing investment in entrepreneurship, we're creating a more attractive environment for businesses to start, grow, and create jobs right here in West Virginia."

Delegate Roten added, "For too long, small businesses have been the engine of our economy, but they've been hampered by bureaucratic inefficiencies. This bill is a vital step toward leveling the playing field and empowering these businesses to thrive."

The implications of the Bipartisan Small Business Growth Act extend beyond just financial assistance. The Act is anticipated to have a ripple effect across various sectors, including tourism, agriculture, and technology. West Virginia has been actively pursuing diversification of its economy, moving away from reliance on traditional industries. Small businesses, with their agility and innovation, are seen as key drivers of this transition. A thriving small business sector can also help revitalize struggling communities, creating local jobs and attracting new residents.

Local economic development organizations have lauded the bill's passage. The West Virginia Chamber of Commerce has announced plans to host workshops to assist businesses with navigating the new consolidated application process, ensuring a smooth transition. Several venture capital firms with a focus on Appalachian businesses have also expressed interest in expanding their presence in West Virginia, citing the Act as a positive sign of a more business-friendly climate.

While the Act is widely celebrated, some stakeholders have suggested further steps to enhance its impact. These include exploring opportunities for micro-loan programs targeted at underserved communities, expanding access to mentorship and training resources, and streamlining licensing and permitting processes. Governor Justice is expected to announce a task force dedicated to exploring these additional initiatives in the coming months. The future looks brighter for West Virginia small businesses, and this act will hopefully be the first step in a series of positive changes to come.