Who we are

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Verdant Futures Appalachia (VFA) is a newly formed nonprofit social enterprise recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) organization. Our mission is to align, strengthen, and grow the plant-forward ecosystem across Appalachia.

By “plant-forward,” we mean an emphasis on plants and the foods, materials, and other products they make possible. We connect people, organizations, and enterprises to build on Appalachia’s strengths and advance opportunities that support our communities, economies, and land.

 Our Integrated Impact Model brings together four pillars of impact, three core strategies, three development lanes, and four Signature Initiatives to guide our work across Appalachia. 

A regional network connecting organizations, institutions, and communities to strengthen alignment, convene partners, and activate collaborative solutions across Appalachia’s plant-forward ecosystem.

A cultural activation platform celebrating Appalachian foodways, beverages, wellness, makers, and storytelling through immersive experiences and public engagement.

Learning and support pathways that build skills, confidence, and plant-forward literacy while connecting people to coaching, mentoring, and trusted partners who help remove barriers to education, employment, entrepreneurship, and leadership.

An enterprise accelerator supporting entrepreneurs, makers, growers, botanical innovators, and regenerative enterprises through mentorship, technical assistance, business development, funding readiness, and connections to markets.