Business & Economic Development

By: Jordan Nelson | Posted: Jan. 10, 2018 | Source: Register-Herald Reporter

Create West Virginia is on the hunt for the six most creative 11-14 year olds in West Virginia to become a “Goal Miner,” a program where students can collaborate and develop their own business.

The Goal Miners will be a team of six individuals set up to develop a business with a budget of $600, and with the guidance of business coaches and local business owners the students will build a business of their own choosing.

According to Create West Virginia officials, after students take part in a series of workshops, their business will be put to the test through the summer during which they will receive matching funding if they reach their goals.

Officials said the process will not be easy, but students will have a lot of help along the way.

According to the program’s official website, twice a month through the spring season, students will be admitted into “Work’n Title Workshops” along experienced business owners. Create West Virginia will also provide students with mentors to guide their team towards success.

“Through summer, your team’s business will be put to the test,” the website stated. “If you’ve met your goals by fall, your team will be rewarded with matching funds and a year of consulting so you may continue growing the business together.”

If students decide to not grow their business together, they also have the choice to cash out and part ways with their earnings.

The Goal Miner program is offered to all West Virginian students between the ages of 11 and 14.

Officials said students may work with a team remotely, but for the best experience students in only these counties should apply: Kanawha, Cabell, Putnam, Lincoln, Boone, Raleigh, Fayette, Clay, Roane and Jackson.

Students have until Friday, Jan. 26 at 11:59 p.m. to apply to become a Goal Digger.

Applications can be found online at https://www.createwv.org/goal-miners.

To be eligible you must:

  • Live in West Virginia
  • Be 11 to 14 years of age
  • Dedicate a few hours weekly from March to mid-August
  • Travel to meet your Charleston centric team or work remotely
Email: jnelson@register-herald.com; follow on Twitter @jnelsonRH