The Governor’s Office of Appalachia works to foster economic and community development and partnership endeavors to improve the lives of those living in the region.

As part of our mission, the office works to execute the Appalachian Regional Commission’s five goals in Ohio:

• Building Appalachian Businesses: Investments in entrepreneurship and home-grown business development helps communities build sustainable, diverse economies.
• Building Appalachia's Workforce Ecosystem: Expanding and strengthening community systems, including education, healthcare, housing and childcare, will help Appalachians obtain a job, stay on the job, and advance their careers.
• Building Appalachia's Infrastructure: Access to reliable and affordable utilities and infrastructure ensure that Appalachia's residents can successfully live and work in the Region.
• Building Regional Culture and Tourism: Preserving and investing in the Region's local, cultural heritage, and natural assets will strengthen Appalachia's economic potential.
• Building Community Leaders and Capacity: Investing in the capacity of local leaders, organizations, and communities to address local challenges will strengthen the Region's economic prosperity.

Mission

The mission of the Governor's Office of Appalachia is to support local, regional, state and federal initiatives that allow the people of Ohio's Appalachian region to attain economic prosperity.

Ohio's four Local Development Districts and the Governor's Office of Appalachia collaborate to prioritize projects in the state's Appalachian counties and to administer Appalachian Regional Commission and state project funds. They also partner with local organizations, agencies, and individuals working to foster economic growth and improve the quality of life for all citizens in the region.