Marshall University Partners with gener8tor to Launch a Second Cohort of West Virginia Innovation Accelerator
Huntington, WV - Marshall University, in partnership with global venture firm and startup accelerator gener8tor, today announced a second cohort of the gBETA at Marshall’s iCenter Powered by Quality Insights startup accelerator program, focused on founders located in West Virginia. The program expansion is made possible through a $1.2 million gift from Quality Insights to support entrepreneurship through Marshall University’s Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (iCenter). The investment will fund three years of startup programming, strengthening Marshall’s efforts to support early-stage founders and grow West Virginia’s innovation ecosystem.
gBETA at Marshall’s iCenter is a free, seven-week program from the gold-rated startup accelerator and venture capital firm gener8tor, designed to support early-stage founders through hands-on coaching, concierge programming, and access to a broad network of mentors, customers, and investors. The program helps startups build momentum and prepare for future equity-based accelerators and investment opportunities.
gBETA at Marshall’s iCenter marks the second gBETA program launched in West Virginia, building on the inaugural cohort and the momentum it created for founders across the state. To date, the program has supported five companies that have raised $3M+ in growth capital and created 3 jobs.
“For more than 50 years, Quality Insights has been committed to improving rural health, and innovation is essential to that mission,” said Sven Berg, CEO of Quality Insights. “This $1.2 million investment in gBETA at Marshall’s iCenter Powered by Quality Insights supports West Virginia’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and aligns with the state’s vision to become a national leader in rural health innovation. Through partnerships like this and our Thinkspace accelerator, we’re helping entrepreneurs develop breakthrough health care solutions that will transform care delivery in West Virginia and rural communities nationwide.”
The iCenter launched its gBETA accelerator in June 2025 with five startups from across West Virginia, representing industries in agriculture, digital infrastructure, medical technology, advanced manufacturing, and artificial intelligence.
“The momentum around entrepreneurship in West Virginia continues to grow,” said Tricia Ball, executive director of Marshall University’s iCenter. “Programs like this create pathways for the entrepreneurs already building incredible things across our state, and we’re excited to welcome a second cohort and continue strengthening the startup ecosystem here.”
Program Eligibility
The program is open to founders and early-stage, pre-seed companies in West Virginia with high-growth and high-impact potential. Program partners will actively source innovation-driven, scalable startups from across West Virginia, with a preference for Marshall University’s areas of distinction: advanced energy, advanced manufacturing, aviation, cyber security, health care, and entrepreneurship.
“We’re proud to continue our partnership with Marshall University’s iCenter to help more early-stage founders across West Virginia,” said Vanessa Huerta, gBETA Vice President and Partner at gener8tor. “The level of interest we’re seeing from entrepreneurs in the region reinforces how important programs like gBETA at Marshall’s iCenter are for supporting and growing the local startup ecosystem.”
The gBETA at Marshall’s iCenter program is now recruiting startups and will kick off in mid-May 2026. Startup companies and founders interested in applying or learning more about the program are encouraged to visit the gBETA at Marshall's iCenter website or reach out to Linda Janes, gBETA Managing Director at linda@gener8tor.com
About gener8tor
gener8tor is a global venture firm and accelerator network that supports startups, workers, employers, artists and musicians across race, place and gender. gener8tor partners with companies, governments, universities and nonprofits to operate programs and conferences in more than 45 communities across 25 states and three countries. Fast Company named gener8tor one of the Best Workplaces for Innovators in 2021 and 2022. The International Trade Council recognized gener8tor as the Global Venture Capital Firm of the Year in 2022.
About gBETA
gBETA is a non-equity accelerator that facilitates the growth of early-stage companies through a network-driven program. This accelerator supports five startups per cohort and requires no fees for startups and takes no equity. Since launching in 2015, gBETA accelerator alumni have
Raised more than $1B+ in capital and created more than 6,900 jobs across the U.S. and internationally.
About Marshall University iCenter
The Marshall University Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (iCenter), founded in 2018, serves as Marshall University’s hub for innovation and entrepreneurial development. The iCenter supports students, faculty, founders, and community partners by building the infrastructure, networks, and programs that help ideas move from idea to impact. Through experiential learning, startup support, and cross-campus collaboration, the iCenter is helping strengthen the culture of innovation at Marshall University and across West Virginia.
About Quality Insights
Quality Insights is dedicated to improving health through dynamic partnerships, evidence-based practices, and a patient-first philosophy. With a track record of driving significant improvements in healthcare outcomes, Quality Insights remains at the forefront of quality innovation and healthcare transformation. Learn more at www.qualityinsights.org.