1. Appalachian Center for Economic Networks 1 Using Sectoral Networks as a Strategy for Community Economic Development Amy Borgstrom, Executive Director Appalachian Center for Economic Networks

2. Appalachian Center for Economic Networks 2 In this presentation... The new world economy ACEnet history Our current approach Outcomes and results What we’ve learned

3. Appalachian Center for Economic Networks 3 “Worldwide, those communities are flourishing that are flexible and adaptable, and able to respond to new opportunities.”

4. Appalachian Center for Economic Networks 4 ACEnet history Founded in 1984 as Worker Owned Network Initial focus on worker-owned cooperatives Research led us to flexible manufacturing networks Name changed in 1990 Technology becomes key amplifier for the last five years

5. Appalachian Center for Economic Networks 5 Our approach Link approximately 150 firms to three emerging market niches: specialty furniture and household products, specialty foods, computer services.

6. Appalachian Center for Economic Networks 6 Our approach Coordinate design and implementation of programs and services in 5 areas: access to capital, small business assistance, market and product development, workforce development, new technologies.

7. Appalachian Center for Economic Networks 7 Results Kitchen incubator facility Public Webmarket Southeastern Ohio Regional Freenet A more collaborative community: over twenty projects designed and carried out by community stakeholders Link to other communities around the country

8. Appalachian Center for Economic Networks 8 What we’ve learned Work with all firms in the sector Draw in all relevant support organizations as soon as possible Combine rapid prototyping of firms with rapid prototyping of products Use new technologies to support and amplify economic development efforts Build in mechanisms for evaluation and continual improvement

9. Appalachian Center for Economic Networks 9 Why a sectoral approach? Networking hub Market expertise Coordination and development of highly focused, effective services Peer technical assistance Joint ventures

10. Appalachian Center for Economic Networks 10 Financing Local Fundraising (about $12,000) Grants (about 2/3): Appalachian Regional Commission Farmer’s Home Ohio Department of Development Ohio Department of Agriculture Loans (about 1/3): Local Bank (interest bought down with Community Development Finance Fund $$$) Partners for the Common Good