HUNTINGTON, W.Va. — West Virginia officials have launched a new statewide program recognizing veteran‑owned businesses, unveiling the initiative during the American Legion State Convention in Huntington.
Secretary of State Kris Warner announced the Certified Veteran‑Owned Business Program on Friday, July 10, at the DoubleTree Hotel. The program, authorized by lawmakers during the 2026 legislative session, allows qualifying businesses to apply for certification and display a distinctive CVOB logo on storefronts, marketing materials and websites.
House Bill 5227, which took effect July 1, makes West Virginia the 15th state to establish a formal certification program for veteran‑owned businesses. Certified businesses will be listed on a dedicated page on the Secretary of State’s website.
Warner was joined at the convention by Ryan Kennedy, Cabinet Secretary of the West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance, as the state recognized the first five businesses to earn certification.
“West Virginia has a proud tradition of military service,” Warner said. “Many of our veterans continue serving their communities long after leaving the armed forces by starting businesses, creating jobs and driving economic growth. The Certified Veteran‑Owned Business Program is a meaningful way to recognize those contributions.”
The program will be administered by the Secretary of State’s Business Division. Warner said the initiative reflects the state’s commitment to honoring veterans not only for their service but also for their role as entrepreneurs.
“Supporting veteran‑owned businesses is about more than just recognition,” he said. “It is about expressing our gratitude to the men and women who served our nation. As I do for all businesses, I hope that they have every opportunity to achieve success in their next mission.”
Veterans who own a business in West Virginia can apply online or pick up applications at the Secretary of State’s Office. Applicants must submit a completed form and a copy of their DD‑214. Veterans already qualified for the Boots to Business Program must apply separately for CVOB certification but do not need to resubmit documentation.
The program is open to veterans; active‑duty servicemembers may qualify for the Boots to Business initiative.
