The Plan

In 2004, the Network published a market study and a strategic plan. The market study suggested that several sectors offered development opportunities (wood products, tourism, handcraft) but that future regional prosperity could not rely on any single sector (no single sector strong enough). Instead of a single sector approach, the strategic plan suggests development in several sectors organized around a single regional brand.

To provide a frame for its sector development and branding activities, the Network's strategic plan adopts the "heritage area" model employed by many other regional development efforts across the United States and the world. In 2006, the Network held a "Rally for the Maine Mountain Heritage Area" in which the basic aspects of the strategic plan were reaffirmed by a wide range of stakeholders.

Structure and Communications

To implement the plan, the Network resolved to operate as a true network, organizing action teams around emerging opportunities and objectives, aligning action across teams through a coordinating committee. Mountain Counties Heritage, Inc. acts as steward of the coordinating committee and provides communications support for the Network as a whole.

The Network publishes an electronic newsletter four times per year. Read Network News online or send an email requesting to receive it.

Programs

Knowledge Power - Building an integrated knowledge and communications system.

Woods and Waters - Supporting multiple, sustainable uses of natural resources.

Village Works - Promoting investment in hub communities.

Mountain Made - Supporting production networks for signature products.

Investment Opportunity Portfolio

The Network is developing a portfolio of "investment opportunities" – local projects that seek capital to move the regional development agenda forward.