Western North Carolina Economic Development Group

Achievements

A model for rural economic development, AdvantageWest is one of the best investments of public funds in North Carolina. We have created partnerships and provided leadership in almost every aspect of the economy in Western North Carolina. AdvantageWest has:

• During 2005 and 2006, AdvantageWest ED Group's efforts in the advanced manufacturing sector contributed to economic development announcements of 2,345 new jobs and $902.5 million in capital investment. The Blue Ridge Industrial Council division of AdvantageWest includes the 25-economic development professionals in region and corporate allies ready to assist existing and new companies with their expansion needs.

• Helped increase the economic impact of tourism in Western North Carolina 53% since 1995, in part through by spearheading the effort for the region to become designated as the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area. AdvantageWest also established MountainSouth USA, a multi-state membership program that promotes international travel in the Southern Highlands.

• Fueled entrepreneurial development and company formation for job creation through the Blue Ridge Entrepreneurial Council, the Blue Ridge Angel Investors Network and Blue Ridge Food Ventures.

• Established Carolina Connect, the first ever venture conference in Western North Carolina and the second largest in the state.

• Created the Western North Carolina Film Commission, which has been involved in film projects that have had an economic impact of more than $85 million to date.

• Secured grants for the region that have been matched and leveraged into over $500 million of financial commitments in Western North Carolina.

AdvantageWest Economic Development Group and its visionary board and hardworking staff have been recognized nationally by the U.S. Department of Commerce, the National Association of Manufacturers, the Southeast Tourism Society, the Georgia Tech Economic Development Institute, Entrepreneur magazine, and the Southern Economic Development Council.

We are stronger together than we are as individuals. Regionalism is critically important for local developers as we work to improve the economy and quality of life for our citizens. AdvantageWest provides the means for us to think and act regionally.

Dr. Patricia Mitchell
Chair/Local Developers Advisory Council
Ashe County Director of Economic Development