Small Business Investment Grant Fund

HB 2830 establishes a grant program to support West Virginia small businesses by providing up to $25,000 per qualifying investment (capped at $100,000 annually per investor) to individuals or entities making equity or debt investments in eligible businesses. The program requires businesses to meet strict criteria, including annual revenue under $1 million, West Virginia-based operations, and no more than 50 state employees. Investments must occur between July 2026 and December 2027, with the newly created West Virginia Small Business Financing Authority certifying eligible businesses and managing applications. If a business relocates outside West Virginia or closes within two years due to a criminal conviction involving a business officer, the investor must repay the grant.