Press Release

Quality Insights leadership visited the Marshall University Foundation today to formally present its $1.2 million gift to the university's Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (iCenter), joining Marshall University President Brad D. Smith for a check presentation during National Entrepreneurship Week.

 

"This is a game changer," said Smith. "Half of all individuals in the U.S. work in a small business, and 80 percent of all new jobs are created by startups. In West Virginia, it's above 90 percent. This gift will not only impact lives — it will change family trees."

 

The gift, announced earlier this month, funds three years of gBETA startup accelerator programming within the iCenter, operated by national accelerator gener8tor. The iCenter launched its first gBETA cohort in June 2025 with five startups from across West Virginia.

Quality Insights CEO Sven Berg said the visit underscored the significance of the organization's first major university partnership.

"We saw the impact that the iCenter's accelerator had on the individuals who participated and the ideas that came forward," said Berg. "It's all about connection, and this is just the beginning."

The presentation kicks off National Entrepreneurship Week, which Quality Insights is marking with a broader look at how its Thinkspace rural health innovation platform is creating pathways for entrepreneurs across the region.

Entrepreneurs, investors, health organizations, and community leaders interested in learning more about Thinkspace can visit qualityinsights.org/thinkspace.

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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.