Wheeling Heritage’s Show of Hands Applications Now Open

WHEELING, W.Va. – July 15, 2026 – Entrepreneurs, small business owners and community members with ideas to strengthen Wheeling are invited to apply for the next Show of Hands, a crowdfunding event hosted by Wheeling Heritage.

The event will take place on Wednesday, Sept. 23, at 6 p.m. on the third floor of the Wheeling Artisan Center, 1400 Main St. Applications are open through Friday, Aug. 7, and can be submitted at wheelingheritage.org/show-of-hands.

Sponsored by Orrick, Show of Hands gives four finalists the opportunity to present their ideas to a live audience, who vote to determine the winner. The winning project typically receives more than $4,000 in prize funding through sponsorships and audience contributions.

This fall’s event will mark more than $170,000 in total funding awarded through Show of Hands, supporting local businesses and community initiatives throughout Wheeling for more than a decade.

In addition to funding, finalists receive valuable exposure, networking opportunities, and presentation support. Each finalist will work with a mentor to refine their pitch and receive a professionally produced 90-second video highlighting their project, supported by funding from the Truist West Virginia Foundation.

The Show of Hands process includes:

Application: Submit a proposal by Aug. 7. A selection committee will choose four finalists.
Presentation: Finalists will present their ideas during the Sept. 23 event, with four minutes to pitch followed by a brief question-and-answer session.
Audience Voting: Attendees make a $5 donation at the door, which contributes to the prize pool, and vote for their favorite project.
Winner Announcement: The project receiving the most votes will receive the funding award.

To apply or learn more, visit wheelingheritage.org/show-of-hands.

Community members interested in supporting local entrepreneurs can become a Friend of Show of Hands sponsor. For more information, contact Wheeling Heritage at info@wheelingheritage.orgor (304) 232-3087.

About Wheeling Heritage:

Wheeling Heritage is a catalyst for the revitalization of Wheeling. Through historic preservation, community development, and the arts, we help to tell Wheeling’s story and shape its future. We seek to improve the quality of life in Wheeling by preserving and investing in our city, collaborating with others, and engaging the citizens of Wheeling in our work.