Entrepreneurs Wanted: CO.STARTERS Program in Wheeling Now Accepting Applications
WHEELING, W.Va. – Feb. 25, 2025 – Wheeling Heritage and the Regional Economic Development Partnership (RED) are now accepting applications for the next cohort of CO.STARTERS, a 10-week program designed to help entrepreneurs and small business owners turn their ideas into actionable business plans.
The program will take place on Monday evenings from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Wheeling Artisan Center, beginning March 17. The application deadline is March 10, or until 12 participants are enrolled, and the participation fee is $200, which includes program materials. Payment plans are available upon request. Interested individuals can apply at redp.org/costarters.
Thanks to funding from the Women’s Giving Circle, a Community Foundation for the Ohio Valley initiative, partial fee assistance will be available for women entrepreneurs participating in the upcoming cohort. Additionally, we are grateful to the Truist Charitable Fund for their support of programming assistance.
“Since 2018, more than 90 entrepreneurs have completed the CO.STARTERS program in Wheeling, many of whom had no prior business training or experience,” said Valerie Piko, program development manager at RED. “We’ve seen tremendous success with this program, and I’m excited to offer it again. Graduates leave with the tools to turn their dreams into reality. This program also serves as a resource for existing business owners who may feel stuck. No matter how long you’ve been in business, sometimes you need to step back and work on your business rather than in your business.”
Riley Carpenter, director of programming at Wheeling Heritage, added, “At Wheeling Heritage, we’re beyond excited to partner with RED to bring the CO.STARTERS program to life. As Wheeling undergoes revitalization, it’s incredibly rewarding to see the same energy and transformation happening within our small business community. Watching entrepreneurs take bold steps toward turning their ideas into thriving businesses is inspiring. Every cohort brings fresh creativity, and we’re thrilled to support these passionate individuals on their journey. Helping them learn, grow, and build sustainable businesses is a privilege, and we can’t wait to see the amazing impact this next group will have!”
CO.STARTERS connects participants with experienced entrepreneurs and startup experts to guide them through a practical, hands-on business modeling process. Instead of developing a traditional business plan, participants test and refine small-scale models based on real-time customer feedback. This approach helps entrepreneurs identify market needs, avoid costly mistakes, and build a sustainable foundation for their businesses.
Applications will be accepted through March 10, or until the class is filled. For more information or to apply, visit redp.org/costarters.
About Wheeling Heritage:
Wheeling Heritage is a catalyst for the revitalization of Wheeling. Through historic preservation, community development, and the arts, we help to tell Wheeling’s story and shape its future. We seek to improve the quality of life in Wheeling by preserving and investing in our city, collaborating with others, and engaging the citizens of Wheeling in our work.
About The Regional Economic Development Partnership (RED):
Regional Economic Development Partnership (RED) is a private, nonprofit development corporation that serves Ohio, Marshall and Wetzel Counties in the Northern Panhandle of West Virginia, with emphasis on creating jobs and stimulating the local economy through assisting with local business expansion, recruiting new business investment, and encouraging small business development through entrepreneurial activity. RED was established as Ohio Valley Industrial Corporation in 1926 and incorporated as OVIBDC in 1961.
