WVEDC Educational Scholarship Opportunities
Invest in Your Future. Expand Your Knowledge. Strengthen West Virginia’s Economic Development Community!
WVEDC is committed to supporting the professional growth and continued success of its members. Through our scholarship programs, members have opportunities to expand their knowledge, develop new skills, and connect with fellow economic development professionals—all while advancing their ability to serve their communities.
Whether you are interested in attending a conference, participating in specialized training, or exploring another educational opportunity, WVEDC encourages you to take advantage of these valuable benefits!
Continuing Education Scholarships
Take your professional development to the next level!
WVEDC awards up to four Continuing Education Scholarships each year to help members pursue professional development opportunities. Two scholarships are awarded for the Legislative Conference, held in January or February, and two are awarded for the Annual Meeting, typically held in September.
Each scholarship provides up to $1,000 to cover registration, lodging, and meals, making it easier for members to invest in their professional growth and bring valuable new knowledge and ideas back to their communities.
Scholarship announcements and application information are distributed to WVEDC members before each application deadline. Members with questions may also contact the WVEDC Scholarship Committee Chair, currently Jennifer Smith, at [email protected].
Ready to apply? Choose the application method that works best for you:
Important Deadline: December 1, 2026
Applications for the 2027 WVEDC Legislative Conference Continuing Education Scholarships must be submitted by December 1, 2026.
If an approved conference or training opportunity is canceled, the scholarship may be applied to a future educational opportunity upon the applicant’s written request and approval by the Scholarship Committee.
Patty Barnhart Memorial Registration Scholarships
Your opportunity to connect, learn, and grow with WVEDC!
WVEDC also offers up to 10 Patty Barnhart Memorial Registration Scholarships for the Legislative Conference. These scholarships provide members with an opportunity to participate in this important WVEDC event by covering the conference registration fee.
The Legislative Conference brings together economic development professionals to share ideas, learn about important legislative developments, and strengthen connections across West Virginia’s economic development community. This scholarship helps make participation more accessible to WVEDC members.
Please note that this scholarship covers conference registration only and must be used for the conference immediately following the award.
Application Deadline: December 1, 2026
Don't miss this opportunity to participate in the 2027 WVEDC Legislative Conference!
Make the Most of Your WVEDC Membership!
Professional development is an investment in you, your organization, and the communities you serve. We encourage all eligible WVEDC members to explore these scholarship opportunities, apply by the deadline, and take the next step in their economic development journey.
Learn more. Build connections. Bring new ideas home. Let WVEDC help you get there!
