CHARLESTON, W.Va. — It’s been less than three days since out-of-state residents have been able to apply to live in West Virginia’s capitol city through the Ascend program, but there’s already dozens across the country chomping at the bid to be selected.

“We announced this at one o’clock on Friday. Since Friday, there’s been 100 applications to move to Charleston, West Virginia,” Charleston Area Alliance President and CEO Mara Boggs said Monday on “580 Live” on WCHS Radio.

Ascend West Virginia is a program that uses remote work and outdoor incentives to attract folks from all areas. Ascend was founded by Marshall University President Brad Smith and his wife Alys in 2021 through a $25 million endowment.

The program offers a large cash relocation incentive and prioritizes life outside of w

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