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Beckley Today
By the People, for the People
Raleigh County Sees Surge in New Businesses in January 2026
84 new businesses registered, signaling growth in southern West Virginia
Published on Feb. 11, 2026
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Raleigh County, West Virginia has seen a significant increase in new business registrations, with 84 new businesses opening in January 2026 alone. This places the county among the top five in the state for new business growth during that time period. Local business leaders attribute this to the county's year-round tourist appeal and an overall sense of momentum and progress in the region.
Why it matters
The influx of new businesses in Raleigh County is a positive sign for the local economy, indicating that entrepreneurs see potential for growth and are willing to take risks. This could lead to job creation, increased tax revenue, and an overall boost in economic activity for the southern West Virginia region.
The details
According to Michelle Rotellini, President of the Beckley Raleigh County Chamber of Commerce, the new businesses span several sectors, including services, retail, and restaurants. One retail business, Beckley Downtown Market, opened a permanent location last month after previously operating as a seasonal market. The Chamber of Commerce has provided support to help new business owners through the registration process.
- In January 2026, Raleigh County registered 84 new businesses.
The players
Michelle Rotellini
President of the Beckley Raleigh County Chamber of Commerce.
Sarah Carter
Owner of Beckley Downtown Market, a new permanent retail business in the county.
What they’re saying
“That businesses are willing to take a risk and they see potential, that's great news. You know, I think we all feel that this county is moving forward, that we are having some great progress, and it's good to see that that's matching up with what entrepreneurs are feeling right now.”
— Michelle Rotellini, President, Beckley Raleigh County Chamber of Commerce (wvnstv.com)
“Definitely give it a try, do your research, reach out to the resources that are here. There's a lot around you that want to help, there's a lot of people here that want to see new businesses here. So, definitely give it a try.”
— Sarah Carter, Owner, Beckley Downtown Market (wvnstv.com)
What’s next
The Beckley Raleigh County Chamber of Commerce plans to continue supporting new businesses and entrepreneurs in the region, helping them navigate the registration process and connect with resources to aid their growth.
The takeaway
Raleigh County's surge in new business registrations is a promising sign for the local economy, indicating that the region's tourist appeal and overall sense of progress are attracting entrepreneurs who are willing to take risks and invest in the community. This could lead to job creation, increased tax revenue, and a boost in economic activity for southern West Virginia.
