daily304 – Episode 05.14.2026

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Thursday, May 14, 2026. #1 – From WVDN-TV - AI pitch competition highlights WV innovation West Virginia entrepreneurs are gaining support and recognition through the West Virginia Small Business Development Center's AI Pitch Competition. The event, held during Bridging Innovation Week 2026, awarded professional services and technology support packages to several West Virginia-based businesses. Winners included companies focused on manufacturing, cybersecurity, senior care, and artificial intelligence solutions — highlighting the growing role of innovation and tech entrepreneurship across the state. Read more: https://wvdn.com/195285/   #2 – From WV PUBLIC BROADCASTING - Mon Forest partnership launches trail maintenance effort Communities surrounding the Monongahela National Forest are working together to improve trail conditions and visitor access. The Mon Forest Towns Partnership has launched a fundraising campaign to support a dedicated seasonal trail crew for the forest's North Zone. Leaders say maintaining trails and improving drainage will help protect natural resources while supporting tourism and outdoor recreation economies across the region. Read more: https://wvpublic.org/story/energy-environment/mon-forest-partnership-hopes-to-fund-trail-maintenance/amp/   #3 – From WDTV - Pepperoni Roll Trail expands after first year West Virginia's Pepperoni Roll Trail is celebrating its first anniversary with new stops and prizes for visitors. The trail highlights bakeries, restaurants, and local businesses serving unique takes on the state's iconic snack. Organizers say the growing attraction continues to promote food tourism while showcasing the culture and history tied to one of West Virginia's best-known foods. Read more: https://www.wdtv.com/2026/04/29/pepperoni-roll-trail-celebrates-1-year-anniversary-with-new-stops-prize/   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.