INVEST APPALACHIA

We’re working to build healthier communities, build wealthier communities, and in doing so, build the power of folks in Central Appalachia not only to write their own next chapter, but also to tell it.

We need an economy where everyone can see a place for themselves, and Invest Appalachia will help move the region in that direction. IA is rooted in place and designed to meet the needs of Appalachia’s underserved communities. This deeply collaborative model puts impact and community interests first, while also providing a large-scale opportunity for national impact investors. IA’s investment dollars are important, but I believe the focus on values, ecosystem capacity, and partnerships is the real key to creating a more equitable and resilient future for the region.

It was important for Invest Appalachia to build on what works, and help existing community finance actors go further with their capital. We are stronger when we work together, and that mindset is what drives IA.

Invest Appalachia is an example of what’s possible when partners come together to think beyond their usual boundaries and create community-centered, regional-scale solutions.

Appalachia is a region known for its creativity, hard work, and long-standing tradition of people helping people. At the Appalachian Regional Commission, the key to creating transformational growth throughout our region lies in drawing upon Appalachia’s history of collaboration. As such, we are pleased to support organizations like Invest Appalachia, which works across county and state borders to build capacity and bring new investment and vision into Central Appalachia.