Business Grants and Resources for Single Mothers in West Virginia
West Virginia Business Startup, Small Business, and Entrepreneurship Assistance and Grants for Single Mothers
Last updated: September 2025
Emergency help and fast actions
- If you need urgent, non‑police help right now: Dial 211 or text your ZIP code to 898‑211 to reach West Virginia 211 for 24/7 referrals to housing, food, childcare, legal, and crisis services. If 211 does not connect from your phone, call the toll‑free line 833‑848‑9905. (wv211.org)
- If you need free civil legal help for custody, child support, housing, or protection orders while you launch your business: Call Legal Aid of West Virginia at 866‑255‑4370 during intake hours listed on their site. Interpreters are available. (legalaidwv.org)
- If your business question can’t wait: Call the WV SBDC Ask Me line at 888‑WVA‑SBDC (888‑982‑7232) for a free navigator who will route you to funding, trainings, and a coach. (wvsbdc.com)
Quick Help Box
- Start here for one‑on‑one business help: West Virginia SBDC coaching is free and statewide. Call 888‑982‑7232 or use the “Become a Client” button on the SBDC site. (wvsbdc.com)
- Register your business online fast: Use the WV One Stop Business Portal. Walk‑in help is at 13 Kanawha Blvd. W., Suite 201, Charleston. Main line 304‑558‑8000. Expedited filings can be as fast as one hour for an extra fee. (business4.wv.gov, wvbusinesslink.com)
- Apply for capital now through the state’s SSBCI program: WV’s WVCAP offers a Subordinated Debt companion loan and a Collateral Support option. Typical maximums are 2,000,000∗∗forthecompanionloanand∗∗2,000,000** for the companion loan and **500,000 in collateral support, depending on the lender and deal. Email WVCAP@wv.gov or connect through PCAP. (home.treasury.gov)
- Microloans and CDFIs that work with startups: Woodlands Community Lenders loans 2,500–2,500–150,000; Partner Community Capital lends statewide with WVCAP tools and advisory services. Contacts: Woodlands; PCAP (304‑575‑1462, 304‑333‑6743). (woodlandswv.org, partnercap.org)
- Women‑focused advising: West Virginia Women’s Business Center offers free mentoring and trainings; email wbc@wvwomen.org. (wvwomen.org)
- Upcoming pitch money: WV Hive’s Pitch Southern WV 2025 competition is awarding 20,000+∗∗incash/TA;first‑rounddeadline∗∗September2,2025∗∗atnoon.WVU’sMountainStateInnovatorsSummitwillawardalmost∗∗20,000+** in cash/TA; first‑round deadline **September 2, 2025** at noon. WVU’s Mountain State Innovators Summit will award almost **300,000 Nov 12–14, 2025. (wvhive.com, extension.wvu.edu)
- Export grants for small businesses: WV STEP reimburses up to 75% of eligible export costs, up to $15,000 through 9/29/2025. (westvirginia.gov)
Why this guide is different
- What you can expect: Concrete amounts, deadlines, phone numbers, and direct application links to official agencies or established nonprofits.
- Who this is for: Single mothers in West Virginia who want a practical road map to start or grow a business, with honest timelines and plan‑B options when the first door doesn’t open.
- How we built it: We analyzed current state and federal resources and recent WV entrepreneurship news to close common content gaps: exact dollar limits; who to call; realistic approval timelines; and what to do when you get denied.
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Topic | Key number or rule | Where to act |
|---|---|---|
| WV LLC filing fee | $100 | WV Code fee schedule for Secretary of State filings (code.wvlegislature.gov) |
| WV Business Registration Certificate | $30 one‑time | WV State Tax Department Business Registration (tax.wv.gov) |
| Annual Report due | due by June 30 each year, fee $25 | WV SOS notice on 2025 Annual Report window (sos.wv.gov) |
| SBDC Ask Me line | 888‑982‑7232 | WV SBDC contact (wvsbdc.com) |
| WVCAP Subordinated Debt | up to 50% of project, typical cap $2,000,000 | U.S. Treasury SSBCI WV summary (home.treasury.gov) |
| WVCAP Collateral Support | up to 20% of loan, max support $500,000 | Treasury SSBCI WV summary (home.treasury.gov) |
| SBA Microloan cap | $50,000 to borrower | SBA Microloan borrower rules (sba.gov) |
| SBA 7(a) max | $5,000,000 | SBA 7(a) program page (sba.gov) |
| SBA 504 max | generally 5,000,000∗∗to∗∗5,000,000** to **5,500,000 | SBA 504 program page (sba.gov) |
| STEP export grant | reimburse up to 75%, max $15,000 | WV STEP (westvirginia.gov) |
The West Virginia startup path in four steps
1) Get free coaching before you spend a dollar
- Action to take first: Call 888‑982‑7232 or submit the SBDC client form to get matched with a coach trained in funding, planning, and permits. Coaching is free and tailored to your county. (wvsbdc.com)
- Why it matters: WV SBDC can prep your package so lenders say yes. They also host Business Fundamentals workshops online and in person. (wvsbdc.com)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Use WV BusinessLink to reach a live resource navigator at 304‑352‑4156 or search the Resource Navigator by ZIP to find a local partner. (wvbusinesslink.com)
2) Register and set up compliance the fast way
- Action to take first: Use the WV One Stop Business Portal to register with the Secretary of State, State Tax Department, and WorkForce West Virginia in one online session. Walk‑in help is available in Charleston; phone 304‑558‑8000. (wvbusinesslink.com, business4.wv.gov)
- Fees and deadlines you must plan for:
- LLC Articles fee: $100. (code.wvlegislature.gov)
- Business Registration Certificate: $30 one‑time. (tax.wv.gov)
- Annual Report: $25 each year, due by June 30. Ignore third‑party mailers asking for more. (sos.wv.gov)
- Expedited service: one‑hour, two‑hour, or 24‑hour options exist for SOS filings. (sos.wv.gov)
- Reality checks: If you are short on time, book a virtual appointment with a Business Specialist or chat with SOLO, the SOS chatbot. The state reported 13,500+ new business registrations in 2024; expect online queues to be busy during filing seasons. (sos.wv.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Visit a regional SOS Business Hub in Clarksburg or Martinsburg (phone numbers are posted on the SOS site) or ask SBDC to screen your filings before you submit. (sos.wv.gov)
3) Line up capital with programs that fit West Virginia
Below are the strongest funding channels right now for WV startups and very small businesses, including options that work well for freelancers, childcare providers, food businesses, trades, and home‑based services.
A) State Small Business Credit Initiative capital, run by WV Jobs Investment Trust
- Why start here: WV’s SSBCI portfolio totals $72.1 million across loan participation, collateral support, and a seed co‑investment fund. WVCAP targets underserved communities and works through CDFIs and regional partners. (home.treasury.gov)
- Two programs you can use as a startup:
- WVCAP Subordinated Debt Fund — companion loan up to 50% of your need, with a typical program cap of 2,000,000∗∗atthestatelevel.Somepartnermaterialsshowupto∗∗2,000,000** at the state level. Some partner materials show up to **4,000,000; confirm with your lender. (home.treasury.gov, partnercap.org)
- WVCAP Collateral Support Fund — puts up to 20% of your loan amount (max 500,000∗∗supportona∗∗500,000** support on a **2.5 million loan) into a CD to shore up collateral gaps. (home.treasury.gov)
- Who to talk to right now: Partner Community Capital has WVCAP details plus WV contacts — 304‑575‑1462 in Charleston and 304‑333‑6743 in Fairmont. (partnercap.org)
- Proof that the dollars are moving: Treasury ranked WV’s deployment performance in the top ten nationally; by late 2024 WVCAP reported 90+ transactions, 23million∗∗indirectloans/investmentsand∗∗23 million** in direct loans/investments and **42 million leveraged, with jobs created and retained statewide. (wvbusinesslink.com)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask SBDC to route your file to another WVCAP lender partner or move to a CDFI microloan while you strengthen collateral. See Woodlands and PCAP below. (wvsbdc.com)
B) Community lenders and microloans that work with new businesses
- Woodlands Community Lenders — loans 2,500–2,500–150,000; fixed rates generally 5–7%; serves many Mon Forest counties and can lend statewide. Great for equipment, working capital, or down payments. (woodlandswv.org)
- Partner Community Capital (PCAP) — statewide CDFI lending with advisory services; active WVCAP participant; WV headquarters in Charles Town. (partnercap.org)
- SBA Microloans via intermediaries — borrower cap $50,000, up to six‑year terms. Use SBA’s official microlender list and filter to West Virginia. (sba.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask SBDC to “package” your deal for a bank + WVCAP structure, or shift to an SBA 7(a) small loan or 504 if you’re buying real estate/equipment. (wvsbdc.com, sba.gov)
C) SBA‑guaranteed loans when you’re ready for bank financing
- 7(a) program basics: up to 5,000,000∗∗;mixofworkingcapital,equipment,andrealestate;SBAcapsmaximumvariablerates(e.g.,base+∗∗3.05,000,000**; mix of working capital, equipment, and real estate; SBA caps maximum variable rates (e.g., base + **3.0%** for loans above **350,000). The 7(a) Working Capital Pilot offers monitored lines of credit up to $5,000,000. (sba.gov)
- 504 program: long‑term fixed‑rate financing through a CDC for major assets. Max project portions usually 5,000,000∗∗to∗∗5,000,000** to **5,500,000, with 10‑, 20‑, or 25‑year maturities. (sba.gov)
- Fee break alert for smaller loans: SBA announced no upfront fees for FY25 on many loans 1,000,000∗∗orless,andzeroannualservicefeeforcertain∗∗1,000,000** or less, and zero annual service fee for certain **500,000 and under loans. Ask your lender to pass this along. (sba.gov)
- Who to call in‑state: SBA WV District Office in Clarksburg, 304‑623‑5631. They’ll connect you with lenders and events. (sba.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Move to a CDFI or WVCAP partner first to build history, then refinance into 7(a)/504 later. Ask SBDC to map that path. (wvsbdc.com)
D) Grants and non‑dilutive funds you can actually access
- Export STEP grants: reimburse up to 75% of eligible export expenses, up to $15,000 through September 29, 2025. Ideal for e‑commerce internationalization, trade shows, and translation. (westvirginia.gov)
- Pitch competitions with cash:
- WV Hive’s Pitch Southern WV—more than 20,000∗∗in2025prizesandTA;first‑rounddeadline∗∗September2,2025∗∗;finalsNovember∗∗20,2025∗∗.Pastcyclespaid∗∗20,000** in 2025 prizes and TA; first‑round deadline **September 2, 2025**; finals November **20, 2025**. Past cycles paid **2,500 first prize with additional awards. (wvhive.com)
- WVU Mountain State Innovators Summit—awarding almost $300,000, Nov 12–14, 2025 at Stonewall Resort. (extension.wvu.edu)
- SBIR/STTR for tech and product R&D: NSF Phase I awards currently up to 305,000∗∗;federalSBIRguidelinesgenerallyallowPhaseIupto∗∗305,000**; federal SBIR guidelines generally allow Phase I up to **150,000 and Phase II up to $1,000,000 unless an agency increases caps — NSF has. If you’re eyeing SBIR, ask SBDC or WVU/Marshall partners for help and check TechConnect WV’s assistance offerings. (nsf.gov, sbir.gov)
- Angel investment: Country Roads Angel Network invests across WV; 2025 announcements included $202,500 in new investments across three startups; individual deals vary. (wvcran.com)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If your idea isn’t a pitch‑contest fit, use WV STEP or WVCAP to fund early sales and revisit competitions next cycle with traction. (westvirginia.gov)
E) Training funds and state financing tools
- WVEDA provides loan insurance, direct loans, and bond tools that help manufacturers and tech‑service firms finance facilities and equipment. (eda.wv.gov)
- Governor’s Guaranteed Workforce Program can offset employee training costs; contact the program lead for details. (wvmep.com)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask WorkForce WV about On‑the‑Job Training wage reimbursements and connect with Apprenticeship in Motion to grow a talent pipeline as you scale. (workforcewv.org, westvirginia.gov)
4) Set up your day‑to‑day supports so you can actually run the business
- Childcare: WV’s Child Care Assistance considers families at or below 85% of State Median Income with work, school, or training — including self‑employment. Apply through your regional Child Care Resource & Referral agency listed by the Bureau for Family Assistance. Expect co‑pays on a sliding scale. (dhhr.wv.gov, bfa.wv.gov)
- Jumpstart Savings for trades and tools: West Virginia’s Jumpstart Savings Program lets you deduct up to 25,000∗∗peryearfromWVtaxableincomeforcontributionsandmayexcludequalifiedwithdrawalsupto∗∗25,000** per year from WV taxable income for contributions and may exclude qualified withdrawals up to **25,000; employers can get a 5,000∗∗WVtaxcreditformatchingemployeecontributions.Minimumopeningdepositis∗∗5,000** WV tax credit for matching employee contributions. Minimum opening deposit is **5; Ignite incentive pays $100 for qualifying young or newly enrolled trainees. Call 304‑341‑5055. (wvjumpstart.gov)
- Mentoring: The WV Women’s Business Center and SCORE mentors provide free, ongoing guidance statewide (in‑person or virtual). (wvwomen.org, volunteermatch.org)
- Government contracting: RCAC APEX Accelerator helps you get SAM, certifications like 8(a)/WOSB/DBE, and bid ready — book an appointment at 304‑344‑2546. (rcacwv.com)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If costs still block you, call 211 to locate child care scholarships, transportation help, or short‑term bill assistance while you stabilize cash flow. (wv211.org)
Funding options at a glance
Table: State and community capital you can use
| Program | Typical amount | Best for | How to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| WVCAP Subordinated Debt | up to 2,000,000∗∗(somepartnerslistupto∗∗2,000,000** (some partners list up to **4,000,000) | Equipment, expansion, permanent working capital | Contact PCAP or your CDFI/bank; ask for WVCAP companion loan. (home.treasury.gov, partnercap.org) |
| WVCAP Collateral Support | up to 20% of loan, max $500,000 support | Bankable deals with collateral gaps | Ask your lender to request WVCAP collateral support. (home.treasury.gov) |
| Woodlands Community Lenders | 2,500–2,500–150,000 | Rural startups, main‑street businesses | Apply on Woodlands site; serves Mon Forest region statewide focus. (woodlandswv.org) |
| PCAP loans | varies; often 25,000–25,000–500,000 | Statewide CDFI financing with TA | Call 304‑575‑1462 or 304‑333‑6743. (partnercap.org) |
| Wyoming County EDA loans | 1,000–1,000–150,000+ across several funds | Southern WV startups and expansions | See loan menu and online portal. (wyomingcounty.com) |
Table: SBA channels
| Program | Max amount | Typical use | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| SBA Microloan | $50,000 | Working capital, supplies, equipment | Up to 6‑year term; find WV intermediaries via SBA list. (sba.gov) |
| SBA 7(a) | $5,000,000 | Broad purposes; lines of credit via WCP | FY25 fee relief on many loans ≤$1,000,000. (sba.gov) |
| SBA 504 | 5,000,000–5,000,000–5,500,000 | Real estate, major equipment | Fixed rate; 10/20/25‑year maturities. (sba.gov) |
Table: Grants and prizes
| Opportunity | Amounts | Key dates | Fit |
|---|---|---|---|
| WV STEP export grant | up to $15,000; 75% reimbursement | Through Sept 29, 2025 | Firms with any export potential; e‑commerce counts. (westvirginia.gov) |
| Pitch Southern WV | $20,000+ in 2025 cash/TA | First round due Sept 2, 2025 | Early‑stage ideas in WV Hive’s 13‑county region. (wvhive.com) |
| Mountain State Innovators Summit | almost $300,000 statewide | Nov 12–14, 2025 | Multiple tracks, adult founders included. (extension.wvu.edu) |
Table: Registration and compliance costs
| Item | Cost | Where |
|---|---|---|
| WV LLC filing | $100 | WV SOS filings fee schedule. (code.wvlegislature.gov) |
| WV Business Registration Certificate | $30 one‑time | WV State Tax Department. (tax.wv.gov) |
| Annual Report | $25; due June 30 | Watch for scam solicitations; file on business4.wv.gov. (sos.wv.gov) |
Table: Support programs that save time or money
| Support | What it covers | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| SBDC coaching | Planning, funding strategy, procurement, marketing | 888‑982‑7232; statewide. (wvsbdc.com) |
| WV BusinessLink | Live navigator, directory of 170+ resources | 304‑352‑4156; search by ZIP. (wvbusinesslink.com) |
| APEX Accelerator (RCAC) | Government contracting registrations and bids | 304‑344‑2546; statewide. (rcacwv.com) |
| WV WBC | Women‑focused advising and trainings | wbc@wvwomen.org. (wvwomen.org) |
| WorkForce WV OJT | Wages reimbursed during training hires | Local WDBs via WorkForce WV. (workforcewv.org) |
Real‑world examples to learn from
- Woman‑owned business growth: In 2025, WV SBDC and SBA honored women‑owned winners like SpaOasis in Fairmont for steady expansion after coaching support — proof that service businesses can scale in WV with the right plan. (wvsbdc.com, wdtv.com)
- Rural capital working on the ground: Country Roads Angel Network invested $202,500 across three startups in April 2025; angels do invest here, especially when founders show customer traction. (wvcran.com)
- New business momentum: WV logged 13,500+ new business registrations in 2024, with services, real estate, and specialty trades leading the way — a sign that family‑sized businesses are viable in current markets. (sos.wv.gov)
Free advising and training that single moms actually use
- WV SBDC coaching: One‑on‑one sessions at no cost; workshops tailored to first‑year businesses; statewide network of coaches. Call 888‑982‑7232. (wvsbdc.com)
- WV Women’s Business Center: Free mentoring and regular virtual trainings; easy intake by email at wbc@wvwomen.org. (wvwomen.org)
- WV BusinessLink: A live central line at 304‑352‑4156 plus a searchable directory to find the right local partner. (wvbusinesslink.com)
- Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center (MAMC): For makers — prototyping labs, training, and supplier connections from Huntington hubs. (business.charlestonareaalliance.org)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your SBDC coach to cross‑refer you to the nearest university LaunchLab, WV Hive, or Advantage Valley’s FASTER WV classes if schedules or childcare collide with state offerings. (wvhive.com, advantagevalley.com)
Step‑by‑step: Registering your WV business
- Gather what you need: EIN, business name, owner info, NAICS if known.
- Go to the One Stop Portal and follow the startup wizard to register with SOS, Tax, and WorkForce WV in one flow. For in‑person help, One Stop Business Center, Charleston, 304‑558‑8000. (wvbusinesslink.com, business4.wv.gov)
- Pay fees: 100∗∗LLCArticles;∗∗100** LLC Articles; **30 Business Registration Certificate; ask about expedited options if you need same‑day clearance. (code.wvlegislature.gov, tax.wv.gov, sos.wv.gov)
- Calendar your Annual Report: June 30 deadline each year; fee $25. Ignore third‑party mailers asking for extra. (sos.wv.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Book a virtual appointment with an SOS Business Specialist or call SBDC to screen your forms. (sos.wv.gov, wvsbdc.com)
Household stability supports while you build
- Child Care Assistance: Families working, in school, or training — including self‑employed — may qualify up to 85% of State Median Income. Apply via your regional CCR&R. (dhhr.wv.gov)
- On‑the‑Job Training wage offsets: As you hire, OJT can reimburse a portion of wages during training periods. Contact your local Workforce Development Board via WorkForce WV. (workforcewv.org)
- Jumpstart Savings: Deduct up to 25,000∗∗inWVincomeforcontributionsandpotentiallyexcludeupto∗∗25,000** in WV income for contributions and potentially exclude up to **25,000 in qualified withdrawals; employer match credit up to 5,000∗∗.Minimumopening∗∗5,000**. Minimum opening **5; Ignite incentive $100 for eligible beneficiaries. Phone 304‑341‑5055. (wvjumpstart.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Dial 211 for child care scholarships, transportation, or emergency help to bridge a slow month. (wv211.org)
Government contracting and certifications
- APEX Accelerator (RCAC): Free help with SAM, WOSB, DBE, and bid strategies; schedule at 304‑344‑2546. (rcacwv.com)
- DBE for highway projects: WVDOT’s DBE office provides certification and supportive services; main Civil Rights phone 304‑558‑3931. (transportation.wv.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask APEX to audit your bid package and move you into a teaming/mentor arrangement; SBDC can review your pricing. (rcacwv.com)
Regional resource highlights
- WV Hive Network: Advising, cohorts, and the Pitch Southern WV competition in southern counties; main line 304‑460‑4483. (wvhive.com)
- Advantage Valley FASTER WV: Free classes and a revolving loan fund 5,000–5,000–50,000 for Boone, Braxton, Cabell, Clay, Jackson, Kanawha, Lincoln, Mason, Putnam, Wayne. Contacts in Charleston and Huntington listed on their page. (advantagevalley.com)
- Wyoming County EDA: Online loan portal and multiple funds; phone 304‑732‑6707. (wyomingcounty.com)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Use WV BusinessLink to search by ZIP and “Access to Capital” to find the nearest CDFI or EDA loan program. (wvbusinesslink.com)
Diverse Communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Connect with the WV Women’s Business Center for inclusive mentoring and referrals to affirming local partners; for legal protections and name/ID changes, your SBDC coach can refer to statewide civil legal resources. (wvwomen.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Ask SBDC to coordinate with WorkForce WV Vocational Rehabilitation for workplace accommodations and training supports that can reduce your payroll burden during onboarding. (workforcewv.org)
- Veteran single mothers: Start with SBA’s WV District Office for veteran certifications and referrals; ask RCAC APEX about VA and DoD vendor portals and WOSB/VOSB navigation. Phone 304‑623‑5631 for SBA WV. (sba.gov)
- Immigrant and refugee single moms: WV SBDC and WBC can help with ITIN/EIN guidance and local licensing; ask Legal Aid WV for language access and small‑business legal clinics through their intake at 866‑255‑4370. (wvsbdc.com, legalaidwv.org)
- Tribal citizens: APEX Accelerators and SBA resources serve Native‑owned firms on federal contracting; ask APEX about set‑asides and technical help for Indian‑owned businesses. (napex.us)
- Rural single moms with limited broadband: Many partners (SBDC, WBC, WV BusinessLink) offer phone‑based advising; Woodlands and local EDAs can meet in‑county when travel is a barrier. (woodlandswv.org, wvbusinesslink.com)
- Single fathers: All services listed here serve fathers as well; WV WBC and SBDC advise anyone with a business idea or company. (wvwomen.org)
- Language access: Legal Aid WV offers interpreters during intake; ask SBDC/WBC to schedule an interpreter for coaching sessions. Phone 866‑255‑4370. (legalaidwv.org)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Using grant‑search websites with fees or promises: Most small‑business “grants” are pitch prizes or export reimbursements. Stick to official programs like STEP, WVCAP lenders, or university‑run competitions. (westvirginia.gov)
- Skipping the Business Registration Certificate: Many single‑member LLCs forget the $30 tax registration; vendors and banks will ask for it. (tax.wv.gov)
- Missing the Annual Report: The deadline is June 30; the fee is $25. Ignore deceptive mailers. (sos.wv.gov)
- Applying for bank loans without a plan: Lenders expect a 12‑month cash flow and source‑and‑use table. Ask SBDC to package before you apply.
- Letting childcare stall your launch: Check 211 and the Bureau for Family Assistance childcare page; many self‑employed parents qualify. (bfa.wv.gov)
Application Checklist
- Business plan or Lean Canvas and a simple 12‑month cash flow.
- WV filings — 100∗∗Articles,∗∗100** Articles, **30 Business Registration Certificate; any needed local permits. (code.wvlegislature.gov, tax.wv.gov)
- EIN from IRS and a business bank account.
- Personal ID and proof of address; any professional license.
- Supporting docs for loans — last 3 months bank statements; quotes for equipment; lease draft; tax returns; childcare plan if relevant to work hours.
- If exporting: STEP pre‑approval and proof of eligible expenses. (westvirginia.gov)
Timelines you can expect
- One Stop online registration: same day if you have everything; expedited options available for SOS filings. (sos.wv.gov)
- Business Registration Certificate: typically 2–4 weeks by mail if not done via One Stop multi‑agency flow; call Tax at 304‑558‑3333 to check status. (llcuniversity.com)
- CDFI microloans: often 2–6 weeks from complete packet to closing.
- WVCAP companion loans: timeline depends on bank partnership; plan 30–60+ days for larger deals. (home.treasury.gov)
- SBA loans: range from 30 days to several months depending on lender and type. (sba.gov)
What to do when you get stuck
- Can’t reach an agency: Call WV BusinessLink at 304‑352‑4156 for a human who will escalate across partners. (wvbusinesslink.com)
- Denied for lack of collateral: Ask your lender about WVCAP Collateral Support and have SBDC reshape your package. (home.treasury.gov)
- Need a small proof‑of‑concept loan: Ask Woodlands or PCAP for a smaller note while you build sales. (woodlandswv.org, partnercap.org)
- No child care while you launch: Use 211 to locate subsidized care or temporary aid; check CCR&R eligibility rules. (wv211.org, bfa.wv.gov)
10 West Virginia‑specific FAQs
- Q: Where do I get live help if I’m overwhelmed by forms
A: Call 888‑982‑7232 to reach SBDC or 304‑352‑4156 for WV BusinessLink. Both connect you to real people who can walk you through filings and funding. (wvsbdc.com, wvbusinesslink.com) - Q: How much cash do I really need to open an LLC in WV
A: Plan for 100∗∗forArticlesand∗∗100** for Articles and **30 for the Business Registration Certificate, plus any local license fees. (code.wvlegislature.gov, tax.wv.gov) - Q: Is there a true startup grant for single moms
A: The reliable options are pitch competitions (like WV Hive) and export STEP reimbursements up to $15,000. Most other “grants” are not government‑run. (wvhive.com, westvirginia.gov) - Q: What if my bank says no because I’m new
A: Ask about a WVCAP companion loan or collateral support, or apply with a CDFI like Woodlands or PCAP that lends to startups. (home.treasury.gov, woodlandswv.org) - Q: Who helps with government contracting certification
A: RCAC APEX Accelerator at 304‑344‑2546 and WVDOT’s DBE office (304‑558‑3931). (rcacwv.com, transportation.wv.gov) - Q: Do I qualify for childcare help if I’m self‑employed
A: Yes if your income is within the program limits — generally up to 85% of State Median Income — and you meet activity requirements. (dhhr.wv.gov) - Q: Any loan options under 50,000∗∗∗∗A:∗∗Yes—∗∗SBAMicroloans∗∗upto∗∗50,000** **A:** Yes — **SBA Microloans** up to **50,000, CDFI microloans, and FASTER WV loans 5,000–5,000–50,000 in the Advantage Valley region. (sba.gov, advantagevalley.com)
- Q: When is my Annual Report due and how much
A: Due June 30 every year; fee $25. File directly; ignore third‑party solicitations. (sos.wv.gov) - Q: Can I get help building a childcare business
A: Yes — Advantage Valley runs childcare startup workshops, and SBDC has childcare industry resources. (wvmetronews.com, wvsbdc.com) - Q: What if I want to scale a tech idea
A: Consider NSF SBIR Phase I up to $305,000 and WV venture/angel networks like CRAN; ask SBDC for SBIR prep referrals. (nsf.gov, wvcran.com)
What the top search results miss — and how this guide fills the gaps
- Exact amounts and phones in one place: Many pages say “contact your local office” without numbers; we list the numbers and caps for WV programs and lenders.
- Real deadlines and fee relief: We include June 30 Annual Report deadline, FY25 SBA fee relief, Sept 2, 2025 pitch deadline, and Sept 29, 2025 STEP window. (sos.wv.gov, sba.gov, wvhive.com, westvirginia.gov)
- Plan B paths: When bank credit is a no, this guide routes you to WVCAP, CDFIs, or microloans with realistic timelines. (home.treasury.gov, woodlandswv.org)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from West Virginia Department of Human Services, USDA, HUD, and established nonprofits.
This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.
Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur – email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.
Disclaimer
- Information changes: Benefit amounts, fees, deadlines, and eligibility can change without notice. Always confirm details on the linked official sites or by phone before you apply.
- No legal or tax advice: This guide is general information. For legal questions, contact Legal Aid of WV at 866‑255‑4370 or a licensed attorney. For taxes, consult a tax professional. (legalaidwv.org)
- Site security: Use secure networks when submitting personal documents. Keep your EIN, banking, and ID documents protected and share only through official portals.
What to do next — a 7‑day action plan
- Day 1–2: Call SBDC at 888‑982‑7232 and book coaching; outline your funding target and timeline. (wvsbdc.com)
- Day 3: Register your LLC and $30 Business Registration via the One Stop portal; calendar June 30 for your Annual Report. (wvbusinesslink.com, tax.wv.gov, sos.wv.gov)
- Day 4–5: With your coach, decide between WVCAP + bank, CDFI, or Microloan; gather docs. (home.treasury.gov, woodlandswv.org)
- Day 6: If you export or sell online internationally, apply for STEP pre‑approval. (westvirginia.gov)
- Day 7: If eligible, open a Jumpstart Savings account for tools/equipment and set a small auto‑deposit. Phone 304‑341‑5055. (wvjumpstart.gov)
You’ve got this — with the right steps, the right partners, and the right timing.
🏛️More West Virginia Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in West Virginia
- 📋 Assistance Programs
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- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
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- 🔧 Job Training
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- 🤝 Community Support
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- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
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- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
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- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
