CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The “Come In, We’re Open” campaign launched in June by the West Virginia Small Business Development Center (WV SBDC) is now being extended through the end of 2021.

The campaign encourages small business owners to showcase that they are open and ready for West Virginians to show them support. To participate, small business owners can download, print or pick up a “Come In, We’re Open” sign, hang it somewhere visible in their storefronts, and then post to their social media channels with #WeAreOpenWV.

“The ‘Come In, We’re Open’ signs and “WeAreOpenWV” social media hashtag help small business owners spread the word that despite COVID-19 challenges, they are resilient and that their business endures. Now they are back to work for you, for all of us,” said Debra Martin, WV SBDC state director. “The effort asks West Virginians to put their money where their hearts are: with the small businesses that shape the character and economy of their local communities.”

The WV SBDC is extending the campaign to continue to muster support for businesses, especially in light of the ongoing pandemic.

“The campaign has seen great success. More than 70 small businesses have participated so far,” Martin said. “Keeping the message in front of the public reminds us all to get behind our small businesses. They are the backbone of our state’s economy.”

The WV SBDC “Come In, We’re Open” website landing page, wvsbdc.com/weareopenwv, provides resources for business owners and the public.

The site includes:
• Instructions for how to get involved and supporting downloadable materials.
• Locations where business owners can pick up free, professionally printed “Come In, We’re Open” signs.
• Blog features on businesses participating in the campaign, their services or wares, and how they pivoted to get through pandemic challenges.

To learn more about the WV SBDC, business coaching services and resources for small businesses and entrepreneurs, visit WVsbdc.com.