Introduction to the FASTER WV Entrepreneurship Program

The FASTER WV Entrepreneurship Program, a partnership between Advantage Valley and Marshall Skills Exchange, offers a flexible and affordable way for aspiring founders and small business owners to build real-world skills and confidence. This program provides online courses that play a crucial role in offering a cost-effective, targeted approach to training and upskilling.

FASTER WV Entrepreneurial Learning Path

The FASTER WV Entrepreneurial Learning Path includes 12 stackable courses designed to guide learners from idea to launch. These courses are:

• Identifying & Validating Your Business Idea: Learn how to brainstorm, refine, and validate business ideas through market research and customer discovery.
• Market Research and Understanding Your Customer: Explore techniques to understand market demand, identify customer personas, and analyze competitors.
• Legal Business Structures and Registrations: Choose the right legal structure and learn how to register your business in West Virginia.
• Mastering the Business Model Canvas: Design a practical, working business model that supports planning, funding, and growth.
• Understanding Small Business Finances: Gain foundational financial literacy, including revenue models, cost structure, and profitability.
• Business Bookkeeping and Basic Accounting: Learn to organize your books, track expenses, and understand your financial reports.
• Building Your Brand and Marketing Strategy: Create a clear brand identity and simple marketing plan that connects with your audience.
• Social Media and Digital Marketing for Beginners: Use digital tools to build visibility and customer loyalty through practical social media strategies.
• Pricing Strategies and Sales Tactics: Understand how to price competitively and close more sales with confidence.
• Building a Business Plan: Develop a concise, fundable business plan to guide your business forward.
• Accessing Capital: Grants, Loans and Crowdfunding: Explore funding options and learn how to prepare to access them successfully.
• Launching and Growing Your Business: Prepare for launch, measure early success, and plan for long-term growth.

Course Details

Each course is priced at $49.99. However, FASTER WV clients working with a business coach may qualify for a free coupon.

Why Microcredentials?

The FASTER WV Entrepreneurship Program offers microcredentials that are:

• Flexible & Focused: Learn one skill at a time, on your schedule.
• Affordable: Pay as you go, or qualify for free access through FASTER WV.
• Practical: Every course delivers hands-on, real-world business tools.
• Recognized: Earn a Marshall University Microcredential for each completed course.

About FASTER WV

FASTER WV, Advantage Valley's Entrepreneurship Program, helps entrepreneurs with free or discounted training opportunities, business coaching and technical assistance, and connections to funding and resources. Support for this program is provided by The Greater Kanawha Valley Foundation.

Marshall University

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Overview:

Marshall University is a public research university located in Huntington, West Virginia. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as online and professional degrees. The university is known for its strong academic programs, vibrant campus life, and commitment to community outreach.

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Services Offered:

Admissions:

The university offers admissions services for first-year freshmen, transfer students, international undergraduate students, graduate students, international graduate students, and online students.

Financial Aid:

Marshall University provides financial aid options including tuition assistance, scholarships, and grants.

Student Resources:

Students have access to various resources such as residence halls, student affairs, student health services, and student policies.

Campus Resources:

The university offers libraries, online research tools, internship and career development services, and a campus bookstore.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Student Organizations:

Students can participate in various clubs, organizations, student government, Greek life, and athletics.

Student Activities:

The university offers opportunities for community service, leadership development, and campus recreation.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Academic Programs:

Marshall University boasts a variety of academic programs across various disciplines.

Vibrant Campus Life:

The university provides a lively campus environment with numerous student organizations, activities, and events.

Community Engagement:

Marshall University is deeply involved in the local community through outreach programs and initiatives.

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Academic Programs:

Undergraduate:

The university offers a wide range of undergraduate programs across various colleges and schools.

Graduate:

Marshall University provides graduate programs in various fields, including medicine and pharmacy.

Online:

The university offers online degree programs for students seeking flexible learning options.

Professional:

Marshall University offers professional programs designed to enhance career skills and knowledge.