Ascend West Virginia (Ascend WV), a leading program dedicated to attracting and retaining talent in the state has announced an exciting new Homeownership Incentive for its members. This initiative offers a $12,000 check to those who purchase a home as their primary residence in West Virginia. The incentive is set to boost the state’s economy and encourage Ascend participants to make long-term commitments by settling in the Mountain State.
Setting Roots in West Virginia
Co-founded by Brad D. Smith and spearheaded by the West Virginia Department of Tourism, West Virginia University (WVU), and the Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative (OEDC), Ascend WV has been instrumental in welcoming remote workers from around the world. Governor Jim Justice expressed his enthusiasm for the program’s success, emphasizing the appeal of West Virginia as a place to live, work, and raise a family. This new incentive aims to strengthen that appeal by making homeownership more accessible and supporting Ascend members as they integrate into local communities.
“It is so great to see more people moving to our state because of the program,” said Gov. Justice. “West Virginia has become such a sought-after place to start a business, live in paradise, and raise a family, and I could not be happier about that. We have four beautiful seasons and the most amazing people on the planet. I am incredibly proud of how this program continues to succeed and introduce people to the Great State of West Virginia.”
A Path to Almost Heaven
As more Ascend members choose to make West Virginia their home, Brad D. Smith, Co-Founder of the Wing 2 Wing Foundation and President of Marshall University, sees this incentive as a significant step forward.
“It’s incredible to witness the ongoing success of the Ascend WV program,” Brad shared. “The momentum continues to grow around this program while maintaining a 97% retention rate. The Homeownership Incentive is yet another great accomplishment of this thriving program. Providing Ascenders with the opportunity to receive the $12,000 in a lump sum sets them on the path to making Almost Heaven their home. We are excited to see the positive impact this initiative has on the local economy and communities for years to come.”
Diverse Community Appeal
The program appeals to remote workers seeking a lifestyle centered around natural beauty, adventure, and embracing communities. According to Danny Twilley, Assistant Vice President for Outdoor, Community, and Asset Development at WVU, remote workers are drawn to West Virginia for its outdoor recreation, affordability, and welcoming communities. These, combined with the new Homeownership Incentive, are expected to encourage even more participants to make the Mountain State their home.
“We are finding that the primary reasons remote workers are choosing West Virginia are outdoor recreation access, friendly communities, and affordable home ownership. Many are choosing to buy their first home and put down roots here, because they’ve found a place to belong. We believe this new approach will continue to build on this momentum,” Twilley stated.
Ascend’s Growth and Future Impact
Since its inception in 2021, Ascend WV has received more than 55,000 applications, with participants from 44 states and seven countries now calling West Virginia home. Ascend members have made a lasting impact on the state’s economy and communities. At present, more than 40% of Ascend participants have purchased homes, and that number is expected to grow with this new incentive.
As the program continues to expand, Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby is optimistic about the growing interest in West Virginia.
“The Ascend program continues to grow by leaps and bounds and granting these once-in-a-life-time opportunities is a testament to the increased interest and excitement around West Virginia,” Ruby said. “This new incentive helps make it easier for new residents to put down roots in our friendly communities and great state. I’m looking forward to all of the Ascenders who will call Almost Heaven their home.”
A Region for Every Adventurer
Ascend WV spans five distinct regions across the state, each offering unique experiences tailored to the specific interests of remote workers looking to make the move:
- Greenbrier Valley: Known for its scenic rivers, arts scene, and numerous biking trails, the Greenbrier Valley is close to major metros while still offering the perks of serene mountain living.
- Morgantown Area: Centered around a lively college town with cultural richness and extensive outdoor recreational activities, the Morgantown area is for anyone who thrives on action and adventure.
- Eastern Panhandle: Just a short drive from Washington, D.C., the Eastern Panhandle is home to historic small towns and diverse outdoor activities.
- Greater Elkins: A hub for music, small-town charm, and outdoor recreation in the Monongahela National Forest, the Greater Elkins community is located in the Potomac Highlands and offers a vibrant arts scene, festivals, events, and more.
- New River Gorge: New River Gorge is a paradise for nature lovers. Home to an abundance of trails, rivers, and local culture, it’s an ideal location to work remotely with close proximity to outdoor recreation.
By offering diverse settings and easy access to the state’s rich natural beauty, West Virginia has become a destination of choice for remote workers seeking a life of adventure, community, and opportunity. The Homeownership Incentive is set to make this vision more attainable than ever for those who choose to live and work in the Mountain State.
Learn more about Ascend WV and how to apply for the Homeownership Incentive.