The event is set for 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. at the West Edge Factory, 1040 Vernon Street in Huntington. Registration is available here.
Hosted by the Alliance for the Economic Development of Southern West Virginia, Coalfield Development, The Community Development Hub and Generation West Virginia, the conference continues its mission of spotlighting the people, programs and partnerships creating positive change across West Virginia communities. The conference serves as a collaborative space where leaders from across sectors can exchange ideas, build connections and explore innovative approaches to strengthening West Virginia communities. Attendees will experience keynote presentations, breakout sessions, panel discussions and networking opportunities focused on workforce development, economic revitalization, entrepreneurship, education, childcare and community-led solutions.
This year’s theme, “Powered by Purpose,” highlights the dedication and determination of the individuals and organizations working every day to move West Virginia forward.
Marshall is one of 10 higher education partner institutions in southern West Virginia participating in the conference.
“This conference is an ideal platform for showcasing West Virginia’s innovations and driving meaningful change,” said Brandon Dennison, vice president of workforce and economic development at Marshall University. “I especially appreciate the focus on small communities and bottom-up innovation.”
A featured part of the conference is the annual Power of Performance Awards, which recognize individuals, organizations and initiatives making a lasting impact through community revitalization, workforce development and innovative solutions.
“This conference has always been about celebrating the incredible work happening across West Virginia while creating opportunities for collaboration and new ideas,” said Heather Foster, executive director of The Community Development Hub. “It’s inspiring to bring together people who are passionate about strengthening their communities.”
“The passion and resilience found in West Virginia communities continue to inspire innovative solutions to some of our biggest challenges,” said Jacob Hannah, chief executive officer of Coalfield Development. “This conference is an opportunity to celebrate that work while building stronger partnerships for the future.”
The Small Communities, BIG Solutions Conference continues to catalyze collaboration, inspiration and action, empowering attendees to return to their communities with fresh ideas, meaningful connections and renewed energy to create lasting impact across West Virginia.
Agenda overview:
• State and federal updates
• Creative placemaking
• Growth in rural businesses
• Childcare
• Grant writing
• Community-led revitalization
• Recovery
• AI in Appalachia
• Higher education
For more information, visit https://www.marshall.edu/aedswv/small-communities-big-solutions/ or contact Paige Reger at reger17@marshall.edu