Media Inquiries
Stay up to date on all Ascend WV news and announcements.
Press Center
In West Virginia, every resident, small town and winding country road has a story to tell. Want to know more about the Ascend WV remote work program? We’d love to share with you the story and connect you with exclusive contacts who can give you the full scoop.
For media inquiries:
Chelsea Ruby
West Virginia Department of Tourism
Chelsea.A.Ruby@wv.gov
In the News
PREMIER REMOTE WORKER PROGRAM IN THE U.S. OPENS APPLICATIONS FOR THE NATION’S NEWEST NATIONAL PARK
6/20/2023
Read Release
Gov. Justice congratulates first three cities selected for Brad & Alys Smith remote work program
3/23/2021
Read release
Gov. Justice submits legislation to make West Virginia a haven for remote workers by reforming corporate tax laws
2/18/2021
Read release
WVU receives $25 million gift to support outdoor economic development, develop new remote worker program
8/5/2020
Read releaseRelated Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ascend WV?
Ascend WV is a talent attraction program for remote workers seeking a high-quality lifestyle in the mountains of West Virginia. The best news? Ascend WV pays participants $12,000 to move, and provides a free outdoor recreation package and coworking space after they’ve made the move. Once you get here, the Ascend WV team will make sure you get settled in and can start exploring Almost Heaven, West Virginia right away.
Explore More FAQsWhen did Ascend WV begin?
The idea for Ascend WV was born in early 2020, at the Inaugural Marshall University CEO Panel, just weeks before the world would face a major pandemic. Inspired by the discussion between Brad Smith and the CEOs of Adobe and Paypal, the seed for Ascend WV was planted. With a generous gift, Brad and Alys Smith created WVU’s Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative and in partnership with West Virginia Tourism, the vision came to life. The Ascend WV program officially launched in April of 2021 as Ascend Morgantown opened for applicants.
Explore More FAQsWhat exactly is remote work?
Remote work is growing more and more popular each year! Remote workers are employed by a company, but do not have to commute to a central location and instead can work from anywhere. Some remote workers choose to travel the world while telecommuting and others look to lay down roots. There is no better place for remote work than Almost Heaven, West Virginia, where outdoor adventure is a way of life.
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