Marshall University Research Corporation

This EDA investment will create the RCBI AERO, an aerospace manufacturing proof of concept center in Cabell and Wayne Counties in West Virginia. This region has traditionally relied on the coal industry but with the decline in recent years, manufacturers found an opportunity to leverage existing resources and diversify their products and services for the aerospace manufacturing industry. The Center’s focus will be on preparing manufacturers to enter the aerospace industry which will produce long-lasting economic impacts in the area. RCBI estimates that five years’ post-grant, the program would have assisted approximately 120 entrepreneurs and businesses, created 90 new jobs, and leveraged $1.65 million in private investment.