Following the lead of several international locations, West Virginia launched the nation’s premiere remote-worker program. The program is aimed at recruiting outdoor-enthusiast professionals to the Mountain State. Called Ascend WV, this platform allows adventurers to enjoy world-class outdoor recreation, uncrowded spaces, and a low cost of living while staying fully connected to their jobs.

And it comes with the country’s best remote worker incentive package: $12,000 and a year’s worth of free outdoor recreation.

A Generous Donation Leads to a Chance of a Lifetime for Many Remote Workers

The Ascend WV Remote Work Program was made possible by a $25 million gift to West Virginia University’s Brad and Alys Smith Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative (Smith OEDC) from Intuit executive chairman Brad D. Smith and his wife, Alys.

Remote Work Program Offers $12,000 Cash, Free Outdoor Recreation and More

A Gartner survey found 47% of company executives will allow employees to work from home full-time after the pandemic. The fact remote work is here to stay has prompted programs around the country; however, West Virginia is the only state to use its natural assets to recruit and retain talent. To ensure participants experience West Virginia’s extraordinary landscapes, roaring rivers and vibrant small towns, the program includes these incentives: 

• Cash: $12,000 in cash with no strings attached. The funds can be used to assist with moving and living expenses or explore new passions and hobbies in West Virginia. 
• Free Outdoor Recreation: One year of free outdoor recreation to fully explore 2,032 miles of whitewater, 4,000 rock climbing routes, 1.5 million acres of public lands, 1,500 miles of public trails and America’s newest national park: New River Gorge Park and Preserve. The package is valued at more than $2,500 and encourages a healthy work-life balance filled with hiking, ATV-ing, ziplining, rafting, rock climbing, golfing, skiing, and more. 
• Free coworking space: A break free from the ordinary with access to inspiring spaces in the heart of thriving mountain towns. Here, remote workers will have modern amenities to stay connected and access to more than $1,200 in free outdoor gear rentals for use with family and friends. 
• Professional advancement: The ability to earn remote work certifications through West Virginia University and access to John Chambers College of Business and Economics’ entrepreneurship ecosystem. 
• Networking: The chance to be a guest at a variety of exclusive events to connect entrepreneurs with state business leaders and guided excursions to experience West Virginia’s abundant outdoor recreation assets. 

The full relocation package is valued at more than $20,000 and can be viewed at www.AscendWV.com.

Applications Now Open for Morgantown With More to Come in the Future

Applications for the Ascend WV Remote Work Program are now open for the first 50 spots in the host city of Morgantown, which is known for its bustling college town atmosphere, cuisine, culture and proximity to outdoor recreation opportunities. Applicants interested in this first host city will be surrounded by nearly 100 paddling runs, 1,400 climbing routes, nearly 200 mountain bike trails and access to seven different ski areas. 

To learn more and apply to the Ascend WV Remote Work Program, visit www.AscendWV.com.