Advantage Valley has expanded its entrepreneurship support team with the addition of Sasha Strader as the third FASTER WV Business Coach. Strader’s role focuses on small business development across the Elk River Trail region, which includes all of Braxton and Clay counties, with a special emphasis on the trail towns of Clendenin, Sutton, Gassaway, and Clay.

Strader is no stranger to the world of entrepreneurship. As the founder and former owner of Appalachian Tea in Charleston, WV, she brings first-hand experience and passion for helping small businesses thrive. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in History from West Virginia State University and is deeply committed to her home state’s economic development.

"I'm excited to be working along the Elk River Trail,” said Strader. “My family has strong ties up and down the river, so being able to help people build businesses that support locals and invite others to enjoy the region is amazing. By bringing free workshops, personal coaching, and funding access to the area, I’m looking forward to being part of shaping these communities.”

In May, Strader led two “Build Your Business” workshops in Sutton and Clay. This June, she continued the momentum with a trio of “Claim Your Listing” workshops in Clay, Braxton, and Kanawha counties. The hands-on sessions are designed to help small business owners build a strong digital presence by learning to navigate platforms like Google Maps, Facebook, and Yelp.

“These workshops will help entrepreneurs learn the basics of how to claim or set up their businesses online to promote their goods and services,” said Strader. “They’re designed to support business owners who have something special to offer but may not have the tools to showcase it.”

“Being visible and credible online is crucial for small business success,” added Terrell Ellis, CEO of Advantage Valley. “We’re excited to bring this training to the Elk River Trail Towns to support local businesses and grow the outdoor recreation economy in the region.”

The FASTER WV program offers free one-on-one coaching, technical support, and access to financing for individuals starting or growing small businesses. Since its launch, the program has helped create 177 new businesses and 267 new jobs, while supporting hundreds more with business counseling and training.

Major funding for the FASTER WV program is provided by the U.S. Economic Development Administration, the Appalachian Regional Commission, and the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation. 

Funding for the Elk River area business coach position is being provided by an Appalachian Regional Commission grant to Elk RIver Trail Foundation and the Foundation’s partnership with Advantage Valley.

To get free business coaching or learn more, contact Sasha Strader at 304-352-1165 or Sasha@advantagevalley.com. Visit https://advantagevalley.com/entrepreneurship for more information.