WELCOME
Located between Interstate 77 and I-79, Roane County provides a strategic location for business and residential growth. The Roane County Economic Development Authority is here to help businesses start, expand or relocate in Roane County. Chartered by West Virginia State code and created by the Roane County Commission, the RCEDA is led by a board of community business leaders to promote the county as one of the state’s best business locations.
The RCEDA works to promote the county nationally, internationally and works to diversify its economy.
The Roane County Economic Development Authority (RCEDA) responds quickly to help businesses locate, grow and thrive in Roane County, West Virginia. RCEDA assist with business attraction and economic and community development efforts. This site also provides tools and information for existing Roane County businesses to learn about assistance programs available in West Virginia. We also work as a resource for new and existing businesses to learn more about coordinated state programs and incentives. The Economic Development Authority provides technical assistance, business expertise and works to provide financing to entrepreneurs and business start-ups. Whatever your needs are, we can support you and demonstrate the many facets that make Roane County a great place to live and grow your business.
The Roane County Economic Development Authority is proud to welcome Lisha Morlan as its new Executive Director. She succeeds longtime director Mark Whitley, who recently retired after years of dedicated service.
Lisha brings more than a decade of experience in economic and community development to her new role. Most recently, she served as Director of Community and Economic Development for the City of Middletown, Ohio, where she successfully led initiatives in business attraction, retention, small business growth, and community revitalization.
With a strong background in strategic leadership, Lisha is now leading Roane County’s efforts in:
- Recruiting new businesses
- Supporting and expanding existing industries
- Advancing broadband project management
- Building partnerships to promote economic vitality
She is passionate about fostering sustainable growth and is committed to working with local businesses, government agencies, and community organizations to strengthen the economic foundation of Roane County.
“I am excited for the opportunity to collaborate with community leaders and partners at the local, state, and federal levels,” Lisha said. “Together, we can attract new opportunities, support existing businesses, and help Roane County grow.”
Lisha has an established professional connection to Roane County through her prior work with the Small Business Development Center in the Parkersburg area, as well as her collaborative relationship with former director Mark Whitley. She looks forward to building on that foundation alongside Deputy Director Kim Davis.
Her professional affiliations include membership in the Ohio Economic Development Association, the Middletown Port Authority, and the Chamber of Commerce, among others. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of South Carolina and a Master of Science in Strategic Leadership from the University of Charleston.
With her extensive experience, proven leadership, and dedication to community success, Lisha Morlan is poised to guide Roane County into a strong and thriving future.
