Where Outdoor Businesses Grow and Community Thrives
Connecting outdoor businesses with the people, resources, and opportunities needed to grow business and be a collective voice in shaping the future of the outdoor economy.
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WNC is the Outdoor Industry Hub of the East
Western North Carolina is more than a beautiful place to play outside; it’s a thriving outdoor economy comprising makers, manufactures, outfitters, retailers, conservation and tourism organizations, and service providers who have collectively made this region the outdoor industry Hub of the East.
Since OBA’s founding in 2013 we’ve proudly served 175+ (and growing) member companies and organizations who represent Western North Carolina’s outdoor industry ecosystem, generating $8.3 million dollars in local sourcing and over 1,062 jobs that are growing our local economy.
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Great Outdoor Businesses Grow Together
OBA gives outdoor entrepreneurs and businesses the connections, resources, and collective brainpower to solve problems, find opportunities, and build something bigger than any one company could build alone.
Meet Our MembersYou're in good company here
Good companies make good company. By collaborating, we elevate one another, lifting the outdoor economy and our profitability.
Outdoor Industry Jobs
OBA member organizations provide more than 760 jobs region-wide, and well over $8M in local sourcing of materials and contracts in our region. Our new job board provides opportunities for businesses and individuals to match skills and talent to positions as we grow the WNC outdoor economy.
The OBA played a huge part in my decision to move to Asheville and start my business. At the time, I believed the OBA would help provide the encouragement, mentorship, and resources I needed to get my work off the ground. Looking back, 5 years later, the people and companies of the OBA have exceeded all expectations.
—Greg Hardy, Rockgeist
Check Us Out
Whether your brand is new or well-established, your leadership and staff have something to gain by being a part of the larger outdoor community. We encourage you to join us for our next event to find out more. Sign up to be notified of upcoming events and opportunities here:
