The 6th Annual Outdoor Economy Conference kicks off in Western North Carolina, September 15-18. Returning from its 2024 cancellation in the wake of Hurricane Helene, this national convening of leaders from over 35 states, representing every aspect of the outdoor economy, is set to take place at The Cherokee Convention Center in Cherokee, NC.
This year’s conference centers on the theme Investing in the Ecosystem – exploring how businesses, agencies, and organizations can collaborate to strengthen the resilience of outdoor recreation economies, communities, and natural resources. The program emphasizes the importance of collective investment—in people, infrastructure, and place—to ensure that America’s outdoor spaces remain vibrant sources of wellbeing, revitalization, and economic opportunity for generations to come.
“The Outdoor Economy Conference reflects the momentum we’re seeing across North Carolina and the nation—where outdoor recreation is not only a driver of health and well-being, but also a powerful economic engine for our communities,” said Amy Allison, Director of North Carolina’s Outdoor Economy Office. ”By bringing together stakeholders from across the outdoor ecosystem, we’re creating space for meaningful collaboration—and showcasing what’s possible when we invest in people, partnerships, and the places that connect us all.”
With over 80 speakers, deep-dive workshops, and immersive outdoor networking excursions, this year’s conference offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to connect with key stakeholders and leaders in the outdoor recreation economy. Attendees will experience an Expo Hall with over 40 exhibitors, a featured Accessible Outdoor Recreation & Adaptive Sports Workshop led by Tourism Impact Services, Waypoint Adventure and Catalyst Sports, and keynote sessions from national organizations including the Outdoor Foundation, Outdoor Industry Association, and Outdoor Recreation Roundtable. The event also includes curated networking receptions, the World Trails Film Festival, and a full menu of outdoor excursions in Western North Carolina—giving participants a firsthand look at the region’s thriving outdoor economy in action.
The Outdoor Economy Conference is made possible by the invaluable support of many dedicated sponsors. Presenting partners include the Made by Mountains Partnership, North Carolina Outdoor Economy Office, The Outdoor Business Alliance of WNC, and Mountain BizWorks, whose collaboration and commitment contribute to making this conference an exceptional and impactful experience.
About Made by Mountains Partnership
The Made By Mountains Partnership (MADE X MTNS) is working to expand the outdoor industry and economy across North Carolina’s Appalachian region and catalyze rural development by building vibrant outdoor communities, growing outdoor businesses, and amplifying outdoor culture. For more information, visit madexmtns.com or @madexmtns
