Newsletters

TechConnectWV Director Anne Barth, Congressman Nick J. Rahall and TechConnectWV Board Chairman Russ Lorince

Creating jobs by advancing innovation-based economic development in West Virginia was the message shared with members of West Virginia’s Congressional Delegation by TechConnect Board Chair Russ Lorince and Executive Director Anne Barth during a recent visit to Washington.

“Our Delegation has been very supportive of programs and funding for research and infrastructure, including the National Energy Technology Laboratory, the National Science Foundation, NRAO Green Bank, EPSCoR, and other initiatives that drive innovation,” Lorince said.

“This was an opportunity to thank them for past support and to raise awareness of issues pending before Congress that are critical to continued advancement,” he noted.

Lorince and Barth met with Senator Joe Manchin, Rep. Nick Rahall, Rep. Shelley Capito, Rep. David McKinley, and senior members of Senator Jay Rockefeller’s staff.

TechConnect seeks to diversify the state’s economy and promote economic prosperity, Barth added, noting that legislation such as the America Competes Act fosters regional innovation, encourages strategic collaboration, and creates jobs.

“We shared examples of how the TechConnect model—working through and with our members to deliver services—is assisting entrepreneurs and helping startup firms gain their footing around the state,” Barth said.