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
New White Paper: Clean Energy Investment In Appalachia
CLEAN energy development in Appalachia is an important part of the REGION'S transition to a more just, sustainable, and resilient economy. Investment is a major barrier to an otherwise promising solar sector. What can be done? This white paper examines the current barriers to investment and proposes a focus on "catalytic capital" to unlock more solar investment in the region and accelerate the clean energy sector in Appalachia.
Read MoreIn Clean Energy, Climate Change, Guest Post, Policy, Publication, Research
2019 CAN Regional Peer-to-Peer Convening
This past November, the Central Appalachian Network hosted its 2nd Regional Peer-to-Peer Convening at Tamarack in Beckley, WV. Over 100 […]
Read MoreIn Clean Energy, Creative Placemaking, Equity, Food systems, StoriesMore 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
#WhyILoveCoalfieldCouncilDay “I work remotely a lot of the time, so it’s nice to see everyone’s faces.” - Jessi, Refresh Appalachia #CoalfieldCouncilDay
Tecumseh Land Trust and the Arthur Morgan Institute for Community Solutions will host a conference on sustainable agriculture and land conservation practices, and local food systems next month, and ACEnet's Leslie Schaller is one of the featured speakers! Growing Green 2020: Investing in Conservation and Local Food Conference, March 13-15.
Today we are at the Eastern Kentucky Farmers conference in Morehead, talking to farmers about energy efficiency and solar!
Environmental Education Council of Ohio has a great conference coming up April 2-5, including a student wildlife symposium on April 2. Check out the agenda and registration at eeco.wildapricot.org; early bird registration ends March 4th!