daily304 - Episode 02.12.2024

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.  

Today is Monday, Feb. 12 

As WV adopts mobile licenses, digital identity fintech could be the wave of the future. From fire towers to treehouses, escape to a unique spring getaway in Almost Heaven. And WV is poised to become a hub of Advanced Air Mobility…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From FORBES – Digital identity may be the defining factor driving fintech adoption in 2024. It is also central to efforts aimed at reducing fraud and improving national security.

A 2023 University of Maryland study found that almost one out of every 10 Americans lack a government issued photo identification card.

The U.S. Department of Labor is using $1.6 billion from the American Rescue Plan Act to address digital identity verification at the state level, including $600 million to modernize vulnerable state IT systems and $380 million for fraud prevention.

Separately, the Inflation Reduction Act included $500 million to establish Regional Technology Innovation Hubs. Out of this program, the state of West Virginia in collaboration with a consortium of Fortune 500 companies, academic institutions, extraordinary entrepreneurs and venture investors were awarded a planning grant to align existing and new capabilities for identity and authentication efforts. 

Read more:

https://www-forbes-com.cdn.ampproject.org/c/s/www.forbes.com/sites/sarahbiller/2023/12/03/digital-identity-fintech-solutions-could-save-the-us-billions-of-dollars/amp/

#2 – From WV TOURISM – Head for the rolling green hills and plan an escape to Almost Heaven this spring. Breathe in fresh, mountain air while lodging at the most unique and charming accommodations. Disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and plug in to the beauty of West Virginia in a tiny home, glamping dome, fire tower or treetop villa.

Reconnect with yourself and nature with a night away in a tiny home at Wildflower Vacation Rentals. This lovely a-frame is nestled within 20 secluded acres, powered by solar energy and a wood-fired stove. 

Originally constructed in 1935, the Thorny Mountain Fire Tower stands 53 feet above the Seneca State Forest and gives way to jaw-dropping panoramic views of Almost Heaven. Make the climb up the 69 rugged steps and find a small living space, available for rent during the warmer months.

For more spring getaway ideas, visit www.wvtourism.com.

Read  more:

https://wvtourism.com/unique-spring-stays/?_thumbnail_id=131324

#3 – From VERTX PARTNERS – Vertx Partners has announced the release of a groundbreaking Deloitte study assessing West Virginia’s potential to become a hub for Advanced Air Mobility. The comprehensive study reveals key insights into the booming AAM market in the United States and positions West Virginia as a strategic player in this transformative industry. 

Forecasted to contribute $115 billion to the U.S. economy by 2035 and create over 280,000 high-paying jobs, AAM presents a significant opportunity for West Virginia’s economic and societal growth. While many national studies on AAM concentrate on urban applications, this report uniquely explores the potential and challenges of implementing AAM in rural settings.

“This is a great opportunity for the state. West Virginia has the chance to lead an industry and build out the template that will be used not only for rural West Virginians but also for rural America as well,” Vertx President Sean Frisbee said.

You can find the full study here.

Read more:

https://vertxpartners.org/vertx-partners-unveils-groundbreaking-economic-study/

Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304.

The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo. 

That’s all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.