Resources
Recognizing that the Coalfield Counties have a unique culture and history, the VA General Assembly created the Heart of Appalachia Tourism Authority in 1993 to tell our authentic story and promote this region as an attractive tourism destination. Focusing on our exciting outdoor adventure and relaxing scenic beauty, Heart of Appalachia promotes the westernmost counties of Buchanan, Dickenson, Lee, Russell, Scott, Tazewell, Wise and the City of Norton.
Entrepreneurial ecosystems describe communities or regions that foster an overall business climate supportive of entrepreneurship. These communities portray a positive, enthusiastic attitude that infuses an entrepreneurial culture; one that asks “how can we help you start and succeed at business?” There are many resources and incentives that communities can offer to new and existing entrepreneurs to build a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. Check out a few helpful tools to help strengthen your entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Launch an Entrepreneur Challenge Toolkit
Community Entrepreneur Package Examples
Main Street America – Entrepreneurial Ecosystems and the Role of Commercial Districts
Virginia Main Street – Creating a Successful “Entrepreneurial Ecosystem”
The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) provides free and confidential one-on-one counseling as well as business education opportunities and resources to help entrepreneurs, small business owners and managers improve their business. Many of the Virginia Small Business Development Centers are located at colleges across the commonwealth. Each site has trained counselors to assist entrepreneurs in starting and managing a business. Services available consist of management training, research data, business plan, financial analysis and etc. The mission of the SBDC is to foster small business success and grow Southwest Virginia’s economy.
Mplans offers a variety of information regarding all marketing aspects. The website has free sample marketing plans, how to articles, marketing plan outline and etc.
Bplans provides a wealth of information on how to prepare a business plan. The website has free templates, sample business plans, outlines, and etc. This is a great resource to use in conjunction with your Small Business Development Counselor.
Templates
- Pitch Deck
Venture Capital Template provides assistance on composing a meaningful and successful presentation regarding your business venture. - Cash Flow Template
- Strategic Plan Outline
For information regarding human resources, visit the Virginia Employment Commission website.
The Virginia Department of Business Assistance works with existing businesses to foster growth and prosperity and assisting entrepreneurs in forming a lucrative business. They host a variety of educational events throughout the Commonwealth weekly. Topics range from selling to the state, social media, mobile marketing & eCommerce, iPad for business, accessing capital, and other business resources.
SCORE is a nonprofit association dedicated to helping small businesses get off the ground, grow and achieve their goals through education and mentorship. We have been doing this for nearly fifty years.
Because our work is supported by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), and thanks to our network of 12,000+ volunteers, we are able to deliver our services at no charge or at very low cost.
Appalachian Sustainable Development is working to make a difference in Central Appalachia. They focus on giving Appalachians the tools they need to fight poverty, revitalize their communities and protect their natural resources.
Accelerating Appalachia is a nature-based business accelerator, connecting innovative businesses, investors and mentors aligned with people, place and prosperity.
“…a system of recreational trails and appurtenant facilities, including trailhead centers, parking areas, camping facilities, picnic areas, recreational areas, historic or cultural interpretive sites, and other facilities…”
Experience the cultural heritage of southwestern Virginia’s coal mining towns on over 300 miles of scenic byways. Driving through seven counties, travelers can see a range attractions such as working mines, museums, outdoor thrills, and mountain music halls.
Appalachian Spring is a partnership of community and regional development, tourism, environmental stewardship, outdoor recreation, and entrepreneurial assistance stakeholders to develop and promote Southwest Virginia as a world class destination of natural and recreational assets for visitation and enjoyment.
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