Remote work has changed the lives of many, even before the pandemic. Some digital nomads work internationally in Dubai and Barbados, but if you want to stay within the United States, Americans can check out the latest remote worker program in West Virginia.
Ascend WV Remote Worker Program
The newest remote worker program is called Ascend WV, hosted by the state of West Virginia, and supported by a $25-million grant from Brad D. Smith, a WV native, and his wife Alys.
“We want you to experience work-life balance in a brand new way- through community, purpose, and the outdoors you can bring your remote work to in the mountains of West Virginia.”
Nicknamed “Almost Heaven,” by singer John Denver’s Take Me Home, Country Roads, that’s what the remote worker program hopes you’ll experience.
If accepted into the program, you’ll get:
- $12,000 Cash
- A year of free outdoor recreation. Plus free outdoor gear rentals for you & your family/friends
- Access to free coworking space
- Access to social events to connect you with local ambassadors and the community
- Professional development or entrepreneurial assistance. Earn a Remote Worker or Remote Manager Certification through the John Chambers College of Business and Economics at WV University or help in growing your own business!
Qualifications and Expectations
To start, applicants must be 18+ with a full-time remote job outside of West Virginia. Those looking for a better work/life balance and enjoys the great outdoors would be a great fit!
You’ll submit an online application, and if chosen, you’ll participate in a virtual interview before the Ascend WV team make their final 50 choices.
Currently Morgantown, WV is available to apply for and you can do so by May 31, 2021. Eventually, Lewisburg and Shepherdstown will be available to apply for next year in 2022.
When chosen, you’ll be expected to move to WV within 6 months of receiving the acceptance notification (they’ll work with you if your situation is different) and to live in WV for 2 years to complete the program. If for some reason, you don’t stay the full 2 years, you don’t have to pay back the money you’ve already received as it’s paid on a monthly basis.
Good luck and picture yourself in #AlmostHeaven! 🌳
