LG Electronics’ North America Innovation Center, LG NOVA, announced the launch of Elevate WV, a structured venture-building program designed to support entrepreneurs across the Appalachian region in developing next-generation AI-first businesses.
The initiative aims to transform early-stage startups into globally scalable companies across sectors, including healthtech, cleantech, and transformational technologies. As part of the program’s kickoff, LG NOVA will host the Elevate WV Challenge Competition during Bridging Innovation Week on April 29, where five selected West Virginia entrepreneurs will pitch their ventures for a chance to advance into the full venture-building program.
Selected participants may enter a 9-to-12-month incubation process focused on developing pre-seed startups into high-growth, AI-first companies. The program offers non-dilutive funding to support proof-of-concept and minimum viable product development, along with access to experienced advisors, collaboration opportunities within LG NOVA’s global network, and go-to-market support, including visibility at major industry events.
Elevate WV is part of a broader strategic collaboration between LG NOVA and the State of West Virginia to establish an “Innovation Corridor” across the region. The initiative is designed to expand access to capital, drive high-tech job creation, and foster long-term economic development through startup growth and ecosystem expansion.
The program is open to pre-seed startups headquartered in West Virginia that are building AI-driven solutions with global scalability. Participants retain ownership of their intellectual property while leveraging LG NOVA’s venture-building model and resources.
KEY QUOTES:
“West Virginia is home to passionate entrepreneurs who are ready to build the future and make a difference in their communities. Elevate WV brings the full power of LG NOVA’s global ecosystem, including our advisors, our investor network, our technology resources and our proven venture-building model, directly to this community. Our challenge competition shows that West Virginia’s entrepreneurial talent is ready to compete on a global stage.”
Sokwoo Rhee, Corporate Executive Vice President for Innovation, LG Electronics
