Working for a more just and sustainable Appalachia.
The Central Appalachian Network (CAN)’s mission is to develop and deploy economic strategies that build wealth in local communities, conserve natural and cultural resources, and empower marginalized communities. We work in collaboration across sectors, partnering with other non-profits, community groups, funders, educational institutions, local government, and private business. CAN actively pursues economic transition in Central Appalachian communities through a variety of economic sectors and market-based strategies, and currently focuses on:
How We Work
CAN is a network of networks, anchored by a Steering Committee of 7 non-profit organizations. CAN’s sector-focused networks coordinate regional analysis and strategies in areas like Food & Ag, Clean Energy, and Creative Placemaking. Our network of practitioner partners includes over 50 different organizations working on community economic development, including non-profits, local government agencies, lenders, community groups, social enterprises, and academic institutions. CAN’s roles include supporting peer-to-peer learning, collaborative strategies, organizational capacity-building, cross-sector partnership, demonstration projects, in-person convening, and field-building research & publications.
Events & Happenings
There is a lot happening across our region every day! To help share, promote, and keep track of all the activities CAN partners are involved in, use this shared calendar to share information about your upcoming events and learn about other happenings.
Stories & Resources
Sassafrass Moon Festival – Celebrating East Tennessee’s Herbal Heritage
A summary of the first ever "Sassafrass Moon" herbal heritage festival, held in Erwin, Tennessee to celebrate the region's herbal heritage.
Read MoreIn Agroforestry, Creative Placemaking, Forest farming, Non-timber Forest Products, Public Health, Stories
Farm on the Ridge: Farm Enterprises takes Grit and Gumption
A necessity for every gourmand, and our last entry, is Farm on the Ridge. Another staple at the Athens Farmer’s Market, you may have seen them on Saturday morning where they sell amazing pork products. In their own words, read how they got their start:
Read MoreIn Food Hub, Food systems, Guest PostMore posts by topic:
Clean Energy Creative Placemaking Food Hub Food systems Guest Post Healthy Food Access Publication Public Health Research Stories Value ChainsGet social on
🎊 The CFA Squad is set up and ready to go in the Home Grown Village at #FarmAid2019! ☀
We are extremely excited to share the mission and hard work of farmers from across the state!
Its a pleasure to get to highlight the great farmers of our nation with many of our partners! 👏👏
#CFAKY #PlantYourBets
If you're a business looking to grow customers and revenue, consider the "7 Secrets to Growing Your Business" workshop next Tues, Sep 24 in Berea.
We are partnering with Kentucky Small Business Development Center and City of Berea, KY Government to offer this free workshop!
Register ➡️ secretstogrowingbusiness.eventbrite.com/
🧀 CFA Squad made it to Wisconsin! 🧀
On the final leg to #FarmAid2019
Look out for updates as they hit the Homegrown Village tomorrow!
#CFAKY #PlantYourBets
Anne EvansBaysJamesPatrickCathrynForester
Go team!!
Refresh Appalachia working hard as usual getting ready for to start planting for the fall!
Proud of Benedum grantees!