Allegany and Garrett counties in Western Maryland have unveiled an ambitious regional business and workforce attraction initiative called Make it! In the Mountains. This innovative marketing campaign aims to draw lifestyle manufacturing companies to the region, leveraging its natural assets and outdoor recreation opportunities. The initiative, which includes a newly launched website – MakeItInTheMountains.com, is a strategic move towards fostering economic development and growth within the outdoor industry.
Backed by a $75,000 grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), awarded in January 2022, Allegany County Government, Garrett County Government, and the Maryland Department of Commerce have collaborated on this joint venture titled ‘Elevating the Outdoors: A Regional Approach to Growing Western Maryland’s Outdoor Economy’. The grant supported the development of a comprehensive recruitment and strategic plan aimed at attracting outdoor recreation/lifestyle manufacturing companies to establish and expand their operations in Western Maryland.
Maryland Commerce Secretary Kevin Anderson expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, highlighting its potential to drive business investment and tourism spending in the region. The project aligns with recommendations outlined in the State of Maryland’s Maryland Outdoor Recreation Economic (MORE) Commission report, released in December 2019, which emphasized the importance of attracting outdoor lifestyle manufacturers to the state.
The initiative has received strong support from local authorities, with Paul C. Edwards, Chairman of Garrett County Commissioners, emphasizing the region’s suitability for businesses in the outdoor recreational space. Allegany and Garrett counties boast a wealth of natural resources, including over 150,000 acres of public land, extensive trail systems, and multiple state parks, positioning Western Maryland as an ideal destination for outdoor-focused businesses.
The project has resulted in the development of a detailed manufacturing analysis, tourism analysis, and a strategic recruitment plan. Key deliverables include the launch of the MakeItInTheMountains.com website, which serves as a central platform for promoting the region’s assets to potential investors and businesses.
Ashli Workman, Director of Tourism for Allegany County, highlighted the collaborative efforts between the two counties in leveraging their natural resources for economic development. The initiative reflects a concerted regional approach towards attracting business and fostering workforce development, leveraging the shared strength of the region’s outdoor amenities.
Funding for the project was provided by Allegany County Government, Garrett County Government, and the Maryland Department of Commerce. A dedicated workgroup comprising representatives from the funding agencies, including Jeffrey Barclay, Kim Durst, Marci Ross, Andrew Sargent, Siera Wigfield, and Ashli Workman, played a pivotal role in driving the initiative forward. Additional support from Steve Kelly, Director of Community Development, and Sarah Duck, Vice President of Tourism & Marketing at the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce, along with consultancy services from Downstream Strategies and InnerAction Media, further contributed to the success of the project.
Copies of the manufacturing analysis, tourism analysis, and strategic/recruitment plan are available for reference on the MakeItInTheMountains.com website, offering valuable insights into the region’s potential for outdoor industry growth.
In conclusion, the launch of the ‘Make It in the Mountains’ campaign represents a significant milestone in Western Maryland’s pursuit of economic development through the outdoor industry. By capitalizing on its natural assets and collaborative spirit, the region is poised to attract businesses, create jobs, and enhance its position as a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts and entrepreneurs alike.
