Center for Economic Options
Policy Goal:
Equity for rural West Virginia businesses wishing to access
urban markets.
Issue:
Asking for Equity: equal treatment for rural West Virginia-based
businesses and open access to the state's dominant commerce areas.
Goals:
- CEO's Goal is equity for rural West Virginia businesses wishing to access the dominant urban market (Charleston), which is primarily owned and controlled by out-of-state entities.
- Maintain the Showcase West Virginia store owned and operated by CEO as a market for rural business owners enabling them to reach the lucrative Charleston market.
- Local or State government will initiate one action that affords rural, West Virginia-based businesses equal support and incentives provided to out-of-state entities.
For more information, contact Marilyn Harrell at: mharrell@economicoptions.org
Current News:
In support of Goal 1:
In support of Goal 2:
West Virginia Gazette Article "Showcasing the State - Products made by West Virginias sell well in city mall"
In support of Goal 3:
Made Right Here – West Virginia Summit on Small-Scale Manufacturing
Custom-designed for businesses like yours, Made Right Here – West Virginia's Summit on Small-Scale Manufacturing will be held June 20 th and 21 st at Embassy Suites in Charleston. Center for Economic Options (CEO) is hosting the “ Made Right Here ” summit in partnership with Senator Jay Rockefeller and the Discover the REAL WV Foundation to highlight the importance of small-scale manufacturing for West Virginia's economy. Another anticipated outcome of the summit will be draft federal legislation that will help rural, West Virginia-based manufacturers receive the support they need to be viable.
“CEO generally describes small-scale manufacturing firm as a business with twenty or fewer employees that is locally owned and operated and is creating products for the marketplace,” said Pam Curry, CEO's executive director. “Although these business owners face similar challenges and opportunities as larger manufacturers, they are often overlooked and undervalued in our economy.”
According to Curry, “This is a wonderful opportunity for small-scale manufacturers to come together to be recognized as individuals and as an industry.” Whether a business consists of a person making hand-crafted furniture, or a commercial facility making salsa, customized optical equipment or textiles, there are many people in this state engaged in value-added production. “We think that it is time to recognize not only the value that small scale manufacturers add to our economy, but also to work together to help them succeed.” said Curry. “And this is a chance to bring this industry sector together for the first time.”
The summit will begin Sunday, June 20th with a special reception and awards ceremony from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Senator Rockefeller will be in attendance and West Virginia music, specialty foods and wines will be highlighted. On Monday, June 21 st following a continental breakfast from 8:00 to 9:00, Senator Rockefeller will open the summit.
A variety of small-scale manufacturers, service providers, and government representatives will engage in interactive panel discussions, with audience participation, on policy issues (taxation, health care, etc.), services, and product markets. Caroline Carpenter with the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, a CEO funding partner, will participate, along with many other special guests. CEO plans to release initial research findings on the economic impact of the small-scale manufacturing industry on the state's economy. There will also be plenty of time for networking opportunities.
Space is limited and early registration is encouraged. Registration is $55.00 until June 9th and $65.00 after that. This price includes the Sunday evening reception. Embassy Suites has a limited number of rooms available at a special rate of $99.00 plus tax. Mention this event to receive this price when making reservations. You may register at www.centerforeconomicoptions.org or send the registration form along with your check or money order to CEO.
