Unique Approaches to Rural Community Development

Abstract

Hanc!Made in America seives 22 counties in Western North Carolina. Our mission is to help build community and economic development opportunities based on the region's rich heritage. Western North Carolina covers 9,081 sq. miles and includes approximately 850,000 people. Every region has unique development challenges when it comes to building and sustaining an economy, and certainly the mountains are no different. Our topography, for example, is a significant challenge. There are 40 peaks in our mountain range that extend over 6,000 feet. North Carolina's mountains are some of the highest in the Eastern United States and some of the oldest in the world. Indeed, Mount Mitchell is the highest peak in the Eastern United States.