Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.

Today is Wednesday, December 17, 2025.

#1 – From TECH CONNECT - TechConnect WV builds momentum for innovation statewide

TechConnect West Virginia is strengthening the state's innovation ecosystem by connecting entrepreneurs, startups, investors, educators, and industry leaders. Through events, programming, and partnerships, TechConnect helps accelerate new ideas, support growing companies, and expand West Virginia's tech economy. The organization plays a key role in building networks that keep talent, capital, and innovation rooted in the Mountain State.

Read more:
https://techconnectwv.org/

#2 – From WV COMMERCE - Constellium is a global leader in aluminum innovations

At Constellium Rolled Products in Ravenswood, West Virginia-made aluminum plays a critical role in aerospace, defense, space, and transportation markets worldwide. The facility supplies materials used in commercial and military aircraft, rockets, armored vehicles, railcars, ships, and trucking equipment — exporting products to more than 40 countries. Company leaders say West Virginia's skilled workforce, strong retention of experienced employees, and a growing focus on supporting existing employers make the state an ideal place to serve global markets from a rural Appalachian community.

Watch the video:
https://youtu.be/BDH_4Kxtfpc?si=GhGlMhgijqtWY0GX

#3 – From YAHOO! LIFESTYLE - This West Virginia state park is being called 'nearly perfect'

A national travel feature is spotlighting Beech Fork State Park as one of the most appealing outdoor destinations in the country. The park's scenic beauty, hiking trails and year-round recreation make it ideal for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation. The recognition underscores how West Virginia's state parks continue to draw national attention for their natural beauty and visitor experience. Visit wvstateparks.com and start planning your getaway today!

Read more:
https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/articles/state-park-west-virginia-perfect-204500556.html

Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304.

The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty, and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.

That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.

Today is Tuesday, December 16, 2025.

#1 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT - West Virginia's chemical & polymer industry offers opportunity

West Virginia's chemical and polymer sectors trace their roots back generations and remain vital to the state's economy, with abundant natural gas feedstock, skilled workers, and established industrial parks that support production and research. From materials science to advanced materials and polymer production, the industry continues to drive innovation, high-wage employment, and global market connections across sectors like automotive, healthcare, and coatings.

Read more:
https://westvirginia.gov/industries/chemical-polymer/

#2 – From WV SBDC - WV Small Business Development Center fuels entrepreneurship statewide

The West Virginia Small Business Development Center (WV SBDC) provides no-cost coaching and business support for entrepreneurs across the Mountain State — covering business planning, marketing, finance, cybersecurity guidance, and growth strategies. Whether you're launching a startup, expanding a storefront, or navigating digital threats, the WV SBDC remains a key resource for small businesses looking to thrive in West Virginia's diverse economy. To get started, visit the website and click on "Become a client."

Learn more:
https://wvsbdc.com/

#3 – From WV EXPLORER - Why West Virginia's state parks matter now more than ever

As West Virginia's state park system approaches its centennial, officials say the network of 48 parks and forests is more important than ever — not only for recreation and tourism but also for community well-being, conservation, and local economic impact. State parks protect iconic landscapes, create outdoor opportunities for all seasons, and serve as anchors for local pride and regional vacation planning across the Mountain State.

Read more:
https://wvexplorer.com/2025/12/10/west-virginia-state-parks-matter/

Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304.

The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty, and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.

That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Heroes often rise from the place where they were born, and Frank Keeney is just such an example. Born in Cabin Creek, he grew up in the epicenter of the labor struggle of West Virginia's southern coalfields. He did not wait for things to get fixed but decided to fix them himself, getting elected to the UMWA and leading the miners to the first major strike in the state.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zh8tHZUT41o