Business

Uncover the Thriving Business Climate of Lewis County, WV

Welcome to Lewis County, West Virginia—a place where opportunity meets growth in a vibrant community. Our county is the perfect environment for businesses to flourish, offering a unique blend of economic potential and scenic beauty. Nestled in nature’s serene landscape, Lewis County provides a picturesque setting that inspires success. Whether you’re an experienced entrepreneur or just starting out, Lewis County warmly invites you to join us and experience the dynamic business climate that sets our region apart. Come be a part of the magic happening in Lewis County.

Doing Business in Lewis County

Tax Incentives

Lewis County, in collaboration with the State Development Office, offers a variety of tax incentives to businesses looking to expand or establish themselves in our region. West Virginia has significantly reduced the business tax burden, cutting $126 million in FY 2012 alone and more than $450 million over the past six years.

West Virginia Tax Credits for Business

Corporate Headquarters Credit

Companies that relocate their corporate headquarters to West Virginia can benefit from tax credits by creating at least 15 new jobs (including relocated employees) within the first year. This credit can offset up to 100% of the tax liability for business and occupational tax, business franchise tax, corporate net income tax, and personal income tax on certain pass-through income, for up to 13 years.

Economic Opportunity Tax Credit

Qualified companies that create at least 20 new jobs within specified time limits (or 10 jobs for small businesses) can offset up to 80% of specified business taxes for up to 13 years. If these jobs pay more than the state’s average non-farm payroll wage, the company can offset 100% of the taxes for 13 years. For companies creating fewer than 20 new jobs, or small businesses creating fewer than 10, a $3,000 credit per new full-time job is available for 5 years, provided the position pays at least $32,000 annually and includes employer-provided health insurance.

Small Business Tax Credit

Small businesses creating at least 10 new West Virginia jobs within 12 months may receive a credit similar to the Economic Opportunity Tax Credit, with a credit equal to 10% of their qualified investment.

Manufacturing Investment Credit

Businesses can receive a tax credit of up to 60% of the corporate net income tax and business franchise tax based on qualified investment in eligible manufacturing property. No new job creation is required, with 5% of the qualified investment taken proportionally over 10 years.

The Freeport Amendment

The Freeport Amendment provides exemptions from West Virginia ad valorem property tax in two key areas:

Manufactured products produced and stored temporarily in West Virginia before entering interstate commerce are exempt from property tax.
Goods transported into West Virginia from out of state, stored briefly in a warehouse, and then shipped out of state are also exempt from property tax.
*Note: This exemption does not apply to inventories of raw materials or goods in process.

Additional Tax Credits in Lewis County

Lewis County offers a wide range of tax credits to support various industries and businesses:

Aircraft Valuation

Special tax valuation provisions for aircraft, reducing the tax burden on aviation-related businesses.

Construction Trades Apprenticeship Training Tax Credit

Businesses engaged in construction trades can receive tax credits for apprenticeship training, promoting skill development within the workforce.

Economic Opportunity Tax Credit

Tax incentives for businesses creating jobs and driving economic growth within West Virginia.

West Virginia Film Industry Investment Act

A tax credit program designed to attract film production to the state, encouraging investment in the local economy.

“Five-For-Ten” Program

Offers a reduced tax rate for qualifying businesses, providing significant savings over a ten-year period.

High-Tech Manufacturing Credit

Tax credits available for companies engaged in high-tech manufacturing, fostering innovation and advanced production in the state.

High-Tech Business Property Valuation Act

Special property tax valuation for high-tech businesses, reducing property tax liabilities.

Special Property Tax Valuation

Unique valuation methods that provide tax relief for specific property types, enhancing the viability of certain business operations.

Commercial Patent Incentives Credit

Encourages innovation by offering tax credits for commercial patents, supporting businesses that invest in new technologies.

Strategic Research and Development Credit

Tax credits for businesses conducting strategic research and development, driving advancements in various industries.

Research & Development Sales Tax Exemption

Exemption from sales tax for certain research and development activities, reducing costs for innovative businesses.

Manufacturing Inventory Credit

Credits for manufacturers based on inventory levels, reducing the tax burden on manufacturing operations.

Manufacturing Sales Tax Exemption

Exemption from sales tax on certain manufacturing equipment and supplies, lowering operational costs for manufacturers.

Lodging Exemptions

Tax exemptions available for lodging providers under specific circumstances, encouraging tourism and hospitality growth.

For more information regarding these tax credits, please get in touch with the LCEDA or visit the WV State Tax Department website.

Business Incentives

Lewis County offers a variety of resources to support businesses in their operations, training, funding, and more. Our programs are designed to help businesses thrive and grow in our community.

Business-to-Business Support

Facilitating connections and collaborations between local businesses to strengthen the regional economy.

Community Support

Engaging with the local community to create a supportive environment for businesses, fostering growth and sustainability.

Education & Training

Providing access to educational resources and training programs to enhance workforce skills and business operations.

Job Recruitment

Assisting businesses in attracting and retaining top talent through targeted recruitment initiatives.

Regional Partnerships

Collaborating with regional organizations to offer additional resources and opportunities for business development.

Partnerships

Lewis County collaborates with a wide range of organizations to support local businesses and promote economic growth. Our partners include:

Chamber of Commerce

Engaging with the business community to advocate for local businesses and provide valuable resources and networking opportunities.

Convention and Visitors Bureaus (CVBs)

Lewis County is home to two active CVBs that promote tourism and local attractions:

Lewis County CVB
Mountain Lakes CVB

State Economic Development Authority

The West Virginia Economic Development Authority (WVEDA) plays a crucial role in enhancing the state’s economic prosperity. WVEDA provides financial assistance through loans, direct financing, and operating leases to support industrial development agencies and enterprises, encouraging the growth and retention of businesses in the state.

West Virginia Development Office/Department of Commerce

The Department of Commerce is dedicated to improving the well-being of West Virginia citizens by fostering diverse economic growth and expanding employment opportunities. Through cooperative interagency efforts, the Department promotes sustainable economic development across the state.

WorkForce West Virginia – Region VI

WorkForce West Virginia is a network of services designed to help the state’s citizens and employers compete in the global economy. The organization offers workforce development programs and resources to boost employment and business success.

County Government

Lewis County is part of the 12th Senate District, the 46th House District, and the 2nd Congressional District. The county government includes elected officials serving as County Commissioners, County Clerk, Sheriff, County Assessor, Magistrate, Circuit Clerk, Prosecuting Attorney, and the Board of Education.

Hardwood Alliance Zone

The Hardwood Alliance Zone is a nine-county region in the heart of West Virginia’s hardwood industry. It offers a competitive advantage for businesses in the hardwood sector looking to relocate, expand, or develop in the area.

I-79 Development Council

The I-79 Development Council is a regional organization focused on marketing and business development in North Central West Virginia. The Council promotes economic diversity and business growth while fostering collaboration between public and private sectors to capitalize on regional opportunities.

Southern Economic Development Council

One of the oldest and largest regional economic development associations in North America, the Southern Economic Development Council includes members from 17 Southern states, including West Virginia. The Council works to advance economic development across the region.

Region VII

The Region VII Planning & Development Council, established in 1971, serves as one of West Virginia’s eleven development districts, helping local communities access and maximize funding for community and economic development. By partnering with local jurisdictions and regional affiliates, they promote stability, growth, and intergovernmental cooperation throughout the state.