Entrepreneurs are often admired as the spark of the economic development engine. The work is risky and success doesn’t happen overnight. Each step forward is a victory for a state in need of economic expansion. That's why West Virginia University and TechConnect WV celebrated the “2018 Innovation and Entrepreneurship Day at the Capitol” Thursday (March 1).
Eagle Manufacturing Company and Bimbo Bakeries USA were presented with Governor’s Awards as inspirational businesses. The awards were co-sponsored by the Governor’s Office and WVU’s TransTech Energy Research and Business Development Program. Erika Bailey, director of the West Virginia Small Business Development Center, presented the awards.
Eagle Manufacturing Company of Wellsburg received the “Governor’s Award for Leadership in Smart Advanced Manufacturing.” Steve Roberts, the company’s director of sales, accepted the award. Eagle’s exemplary management has helped it maintain competitive advantages and growth for almost 125 years through investing in new technologies, automation, and facility and market expansion.
“By taking the long view and investing in smart manufacturing, Eagle is truly an inspiration for other companies in the state,” said Carl Irwin, director of TransTech Energy.
Bimbo Bakeries USA of Huntington was recognized for its commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability practices. Leslie Adebayo, sustainability engineering specialist at Bimbo, accepted the “Governor’s Award for Excellence in Industrial Energy Efficiency” on behalf of the company. The award acknowledges Bimbo Bakeries’ work with WVU’s Industrial Assessment Center that implemented energy saving measures estimated at an annual savings of $65,000, said Irwin.
More than 50 organizations registered for the event that offered networking opportunities for legislators, key state officials, manufacturers, and innovators; all who want to build a successful entrepreneurial ecosystem in the state.
“Innovation and Entrepreneurship Day is an excellent opportunity to recognize the people and organizations that support innovation-based economic development,” Irwin added.
The TransTech Energy Research and Business Development Program at WVU highlights start-up companies and viable projects coming out of universities, national labs, private companies, as well as garages and basements across the multi-state area.
“TransTech” refers to transitional technologies that help to reduce carbon emissions, promote advanced smart manufacturing and help build a vibrant and sustainable economy for the future.