June 20, 2024

Manchin Announces $595k To Establish National Guard Small Business Center In Charleston

Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (I-WV), member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced $595,000 from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for the West Virginia National Guard to establish a small business center in Charleston with a specific emphasis on food production and innovation. The space will include a test kitchen, recipe design spaces and offices for small business owners. This federal award is a Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) request Senator Manchin secured on behalf of West Virginia through the Fiscal Year 2024 funding bill.

“I’m pleased the SBA is investing $595,000 to support the West Virginia National Guard’s creation of an innovative small business center in Charleston,” said Senator Manchin. “This funding will support our Veterans’ entrepreneurial endeavors, especially in food production, by creating space for a test kitchen, commercial offices and areas for local food brands to showcase their products. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I will continue advocating for funding to support our nation’s Veterans as they enter their new lives as small business owners.”

“Our Patriot Guardens program serves as a catalyst assisting the veteran community in West Virginia to engage in modern agricultural and entrepreneurial endeavors,” said Maj. Gen. Bill Crane, Adjutant General. “The newly funded spaces will facilitate continued community engagement and accessibility, allowing for greater educational, financial, and business opportunities within our veteran population and beyond. We are incredibly thankful to Senator Manchin and all those who continue to support our Patriot Guardens program as it continues to mature and provide positive impact throughout the Mountain State.”

The Senate Appropriations Committee allows members of Congress to submit CDS requests, which provides an opportunity for state and local governments, non-profits, and other public entities to receive targeted funding for projects that bolster their communities and directly support West Virginians. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Manchin works to ensure taxpayer dollars are allocated to priorities that benefit all West Virginians, boost economic growth and support the needs of communities across the Mountain State while remaining fiscally responsible.