Join Us for the 7th Appalachian Conference on Social Enterprise

 

A premier collaboration featuring, in 2025, Shawnee State University's Kricker Innovation Hub and regional partners

The Appalachian Conference on Social Enterprise, building on our history of regional strength in mission-driven, revenue-producing enterprise development, will be our region's most significant gathering of social entrepreneurs this year! This transformative event, anchored this year by the innovative partnership with Shawnee State University's Kricker Innovation Hub, will bring together visionary entrepreneurs embracing community-driven business models alongside seasoned practitioners and impact-focused investors ready to connect and expand their reach.

Why Attend?

This conference represents an extraordinary opportunity to engage with some of te most creative and compassionate leaders building sustainable businesses throughout our Appalachian communities. The Kricker Innovation Hub brings deep expertise in fostering entrepreneurship that strengthens local economies while addressing pressing social needs.

What Makes This Different?

Unlike traditional business conferences, this gathering celebrates enterprises that prioritize both profit and community impact. You'll discover how locally-rooted, replicable, sustainable businesses models can create lasting change while building economically viable ventures that keep resources and talent within our region.

Perfect For:

- Aspiring social entrepreneurs seeking practical guidance and inspiration

- Current small business owners looking to enhance their community impact

- Investors interested in purpose-driven, sustainable ventures

- Community leaders committed to economic development from within

- Practitioners focused on building resilient local economies

 

Join us as we explore how homegrown enterprises can drive meaningful economic development while addressing the unique challenges and opportunities within our communities. This is about building the collaborative ecosystem our region needs to thrive from the ground up.

 

*Registration details and agenda information available soon.*

 

Organizing Partners

 

Andi Chatfield Social Enterprise Director - Rural Action

 

Dreama Buck

Lead Training and Education Coordinator - Coalfield Development Corporation

Will Warren

EKY Runway Program Officer - Shaping Our Appalachian Region (SOAR)

 

Debbie Phillips CEO - Rural Action

 

Josiah Hannah

Workforce Development Director - Coalfield Development Corporation

Dr. Amanda Hedrick

Shawnee State University Kricker Innovation Hub

 

Brandon Dennison Vice President - Economic and Workforce Development Marshall University

Tricia Ball

Executive Director - Marshall University Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Clarissa Schauseil

Economic Recovery Corps Fellow - International Economic Development Counsel