Building Small Business Connections and Opportunities

At the recent Small Business Solutions for Barbour County meeting on May 13, 2024, the group had the pleasure of hosting a diverse group of attendees who shared their support, networking goals, and desire to learn more about what local businesses need to succeed. The meeting was held at Belington's historic Golden Rule Building, with the beautiful weather allowing to move the gathering to Belington Bakery's charming outdoor dining area, a former train platform!

The Belington Bakery provided delicious chicken tortilla soup and an assortment of pastries that impressed everyone in attendance. Barbour Community Health Association also provided generous financial support.

One of the highlights of this gathering was celebrating how far the group has come since our first strategic planning meeting two years ago. It is truly remarkable how this group has grown and evolved into a valuable resource for small businesses in our community.

During introductions, attendees expressed their reasons for attending these meetings. Some came with a desire to offer support and assistance to fellow small business owners. Others saw it as an excellent opportunity for networking and making meaningful connections within Barbour County's vibrant business community.

Several individuals highlighted how these meetings have been instrumental in helping their businesses grow by introducing them to people and organizations that have provided valuable guidance along the way. One attendee even expressed interest in selling their established laundromat in Belington — anyone interested can reach out via email at allanfeldman@gmail.com.

Karen Larry from the Convention & Visitors Bureau shared an exciting collaboration opportunity with local restaurants during July and August. Mountain State Quilting will be featured as one of the stops on this year's All Mid-Atlantic Shop Hop — an event that brings together sewing and quilting enthusiasts who visit various shops across several states.

Since participants often travel in tour buses, this presents a significant influx of potential customers visiting Barbour County from July 1 through August 31. Businesses that sell food, drinks or souvenirs should mark their calendars and plan to attend the next meeting on Monday, June 10 at 5:30 p.m. to learn more about this opportunity.

Battler’s Knob LLC and Erickson Alumni Center on the former Alderson Broaddus University campus will be the site for the upcoming gathering. The address is 127 Greystone Dr, Philippi, WV 26416. Shop n’ Save Express will kindly provide refreshments for the event.

The core purpose of these gatherings is promoting cooperation between businesses and offering a space for open discussions about common challenges and sustainable solutions. The aim is to provide a reliable monthly platform where Barbour County's current and potential entrepreneurs can come together in a relaxed environment, exchanging ideas and collaborating for the benefit of all.

If you haven't attended one of our Small Business Solutions meetings yet, you are encouraged to join at our next meeting on June 10. These meetings have proven invaluable in connecting businesses with resources and establishing meaningful relationships within our community.

For more information or suggestions regarding future meetings, email ahiggins.bceda@gmail.com.