CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) — The West Virginia Secretary of State’s Office reported 1,274 new business registrations statewide during the month of November, according to Secretary of State Kris Warner. The month’s filings highlight continued entrepreneurial growth across the state, with several counties leading the way.
Kanawha Leads Statewide Registrations
The counties with the highest number of new business filings in November were:
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Kanawha County — 108 new registrations
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Berkeley County — 85 new registrations
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Monongalia County — 58 new registrations
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Raleigh County — 58 new registrations
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Cabell County — 50 new registrations
These five counties accounted for nearly 28% of all new registrations for the month.
Nonprofits, Fee-Waiver Programs Boost Activity
Of the 1,274 new businesses formed in November, 58 registered as nonprofit organizations, and 139 qualified for one of the Secretary of State’s fee-waiver programs. These programs help reduce startup costs for eligible entrepreneurs by waiving the initial registration fee.
The Boots to Business program, which supports veterans, active-duty service members, and military spouses, goes a step further by waiving the first four years of Annual Report fees—a potential savings of up to $250 for new business owners.
In November, the following groups qualified for WVSOS cost-saving programs:
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Veterans, active-duty military, and military spouses: 72 new registrations
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Entrepreneurs under the age of 30: 67 new registrations
Statewide Growth Continues
Over the past 12 months—from December 1, 2024, to November 30, 2025—West Virginia registered 18,741 new businesses, reflecting steady economic momentum. Currently, 171,416 businesses are registered with the Secretary of State’s Office to operate in the state.
Residents can review county-by-county business trends through the Business Statistics Database available on the Secretary of State’s website.
Annual Report Filing Opens January 1
The Secretary of State’s Office also issued a reminder that Annual Reports for 2026 can be filed beginning January 1. Businesses must file their Annual Reports by June 30 each year to remain in good standing. Filings can be completed online by visiting onestop.wv.gov, scrolling to the bottom of the page, and selecting “File Annual Report.”
Supporting West Virginia Entrepreneurs
The WVSOS Business Division partners closely with the West Virginia Department of Commerce to provide resources, guidance, and support for new and existing business owners. More information on business assistance programs is available through WV BusinessLink.
