Smith Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative at West Virginia University Secures Major ARC POWER Initiative Grant to Propel Outdoor Recreation Economy in West Virginia
Morgantown, W.Va. — In a significant boost to West Virginia’s burgeoning outdoor economy, West Virginia University’s Brad & Alys Smith Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative (OEDC) has secured a $1,232,256 grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission with an additional $536,155 in match from local partners totaling $1,768,411. This funding will be used to launch the West Virginia Community-driven Outdoor Recreation Economies C.O.R.E.) Initiative, a strategic suite of programs designed to expand the state’s outdoor recreation economy and strengthen its local communities, serving all 55 counties. This award is part of a recently announced $68.2 million award package supporting 65 projects in 188 coal-impacted counties through ARC’s POWER (Partnerships for Opportunity and Workforce and Economic Revitalization) Initiative, which directs federal resources to economic diversification projects in Appalachian communities affected by job losses in coal mining, coal power plant operations, and coal-related supply chain industries. The CORE Initiative will launch four impactful programs aimed at building essential infrastructure, fostering statewide collaboration, and driving sustainable growth across West Virginia’s outdoor recreation economy—WV Outdoor Business Alliance, WV Outdoor Nonprofit Hub, WV Trail Training & Education Resource Center, and Strategic Convenings of WV's Outdoor Economy Ecosystem —all aimed at building infrastructure, fostering collaboration, and promoting sustainable growth across West Virginia’s outdoor sectors.
“ARC’s POWER initiative supports coal-impacted communities' preparation for the next phase of Appalachia’s economy, while ensuring that residents have a say in the course of their own futures,” said ARC Federal Co-Chair Gayle Manchin. “The investments announced in this round of POWER will help train workers, advance new industries, and build upon the progress already being made toward a brighter future full of economic opportunity for our region.”
“West Virginia’s outdoor economy is on the cusp of extraordinary growth, and this grant empowers us to scale up our efforts, create lasting economic opportunities, and position the state as a premier destination to innovate, all in line with the land-grant mission of West Virginia University,” WVU President Gordon Gee said.
The ARC POWER Initiative is a vital resource driving economic diversification and revitalization in Appalachian communities, paving the way for new opportunities in regions transitioning from coal-related industries. Built on the foundation of collaboration and over a year of assessment, engagement, and planning the grant awarded to the Smith OEDC will provide the resources necessary to:
• Bolster outdoor-related businesses through incubating an Outdoor Business Alliance, providing technical assistance, training, and networking opportunities for the many West Virginia businesses across the various outdoor ecosystems.
• Empower outdoor non-profits by advancing the capacity of local organizations offering support for leadership development, volunteer engagement, and strategic planning through an Outdoor Nonprofit Hub.
• Enhance trail stewardship through the Trail Training & Education Resource Center which facilitates training programs for volunteers and land managers, and sustainable trail management resources to preserve and enhance West Virginia’s current and future trail systems in partnership with the West Virginia Department of Natural Resources.
• Unite outdoor stakeholders through Strategic Convenings of WV's Outdoor Economy Ecosystem, including the inaugural WV Outdoor Recreation Economy Summit, hosted in partnership with The Nature Conservancy in West Virginia designed to foster collaboration and drive innovation across the ecosystem.
A Catalyst for Economic Growth
West Virginia’s outdoor economy is on the rise, with outdoor recreation contributing over $9 billion annually to the state’s economy. The CORE Initiative will leverage this momentum and fill key gaps by adding vital building blocks to the foundation of a vibrant outdoor economic ecosystem in WV to create new job opportunities, attract outdoor tourism, and enhance quality of life in local communities. By investing in the CORE Initiative, West Virginia University, the Appalachian Regional Commission, the Benedum Foundation, West Virginia Department of Natural Resources, the Nature Conservancy of West Virginia, and dozens of other state and national partners are helping to ensure that West Virginia’s natural assets become powerful economic engines for the future.
“This ARC POWER grant represents an important investment in the future of West Virginia’s outdoor economy, creating new opportunities for businesses and communities alike, and pathways for economic growth that not only support local outdoor entrepreneurs but also enrich the experiences that make West Virginia a destination to live, work, and play.” said Smith OEDC Director of Outdoor Community Development Andy Williamson. “This work would not be possible without the invaluable support of the ARC, the Benedum Foundation, and the many state and national partners who have helped shape and champion these strategic programs.”
For more information on the CORE Initiative and the WVU Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative, please visit oedc.wvu.edu.
About the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC)
The Appalachian Regional Commission is an economic development partnership entity of the federal government and 13 state governments focusing on 423 counties across the Appalachian Region. ARC’s mission is to innovate, partner, and invest to build community capacity and strengthen economic growth in Appalachia.
About the Brad & Alys Smith Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative
The Smith Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative (OEDC) mission is to empower West Virginia's communities and partners to advance the state's economy and enhance quality of life through outdoor recreation. The OEDC strives toward achieving its mission through innovative programs, partnerships, and community engagement. By supporting local businesses, fostering collaboration, and enhancing outdoor recreation, the Smith OEDC seeks to position West Virginia as a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts and a leader in outdoor economic development.
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MEDIA CONTACT: Nick Morales