Facilitating wealth building that’s rooted in the region
Across Appalachia, small businesses are the backbone of the region’s economy, making up 99% of total businesses and employing nearly half of the region’s workforce. Yet generations of disinvestment have disrupted access to funding opportunities that are needed to drive economic growth and prosperity.
In this region, we’re leading with innovative financing ― offering inclusive employers patient and flexible capital, along with technical assistance, to improve job quality. In partnership with regional universities, we’re also seeding the local impact investment talent pipeline. And we’re convening employers and workforce nonprofits to advance and expand policy initiatives and public programs to further economic power for workers.
Active Appalachia Programs
Appalachian Emerging Investors Fund
Through the AEIF, students at Marshall University, WVU, and Ohio University gain hands-on experience in venture investing — fueling local businesses, supporting economic growth, and shaping the future of their communities.
Appalachian Growth Fund
AGF offers investments that prioritize small businesses, which employ nearly half of Appalachia’s workforce, with the goal of building wealth that stays in the local economy.
2026 SNAP E&T Technical Assistance Cohort
In this program, organizations prepare to become SNAP Employment & Training providers. Our 2026 cohort focuses on Appalachian enterprises.
Our Core Partners
Leading Inclusive Employers in Appalachia​
Partner Universities
