Build a Business That Connects to Place
Outdoor businesses help shape how people experience a community.
They create jobs, support local economies, activate downtowns and trail systems, and contribute to the culture and identity of a place. Some operate directly in outdoor recreation. Others support the people, communities, and visitors connected to it.
The outdoor economy includes more than gear shops and guide services. It also includes hospitality, food and beverage, creative services, manufacturing, events, wellness, tourism support, and other businesses connected to outdoor communities and recreation.
What Is an Outdoor Business?
There is no single model for what an outdoor business looks like.
Some businesses are built entirely around outdoor recreation. Others intersect with it through tourism, manufacturing, hospitality, events, education, or community development.
You do not need to fit a narrow definition to be part of the outdoor economy.
Examples might include:
- Outfitters and guides
- Bike shops and gear retailers
- Campgrounds and lodging
- Restaurants, breweries, and coffee shops
- Manufacturers and makers
- Event organizers
- Shuttle and transportation services
- Creative and media businesses
- Wellness and recreation services
- Tourism and destination organizations
The common thread is connection to outdoor communities, recreation, and place-based experiences.
Coming Soon: Outdoor Business and Industry Association
West Virginia’s outdoor economy is made up of businesses, organizations, makers, entrepreneurs, and community leaders working across many different sectors.
Some businesses operate directly in outdoor recreation. Others support the people, places, and experiences connected to it. Together, they help shape the communities people want to visit, work in, and call home.
The Outdoor Business and Industry Association is an emerging effort focused on strengthening those connections across West Virginia’s outdoor economy.
The long-term vision is to create a network that helps businesses:
- connect with one another
- share ideas and opportunities
- strengthen partnerships
- elevate challenges and needs
- support workforce and industry development
- build a stronger collective voice for the outdoor economy in West Virginia
This effort is still taking shape, and community input will help guide what it becomes.
If you are interested in being part of the conversation, we’d love to hear from you.
Interested in Learning More?
Email us to learn more about the Outdoor Business and Industry Association or express interest in getting involved.