Tucked in the ancient Appalachian Mountains of Southwest Virginia is a vibrant culture of tradition, food, music and craft. It’s a region of spectacular views, abundant outdoor recreation, and rich natural resources. Rooted deep in history, this culture is authentic… distinctive… alive. Together with the 19 counties, four cities and 53 towns of the region, we’re building a sustainable creative economy that preserves, protects and interprets our rich heritage and natural resources, creates jobs, and welcomes both visitors and new businesses to our region every single day. The Southwest Virginia Cultural Heritage Commission, established in 2008 by the Virginia General Assembly, works as the lead in developing a creative economy in Southwest Virginia. In 2011, the Commission became the Southwest Virginia Cultural Heritage Foundation. Through a supporting non-profit, the Friends of Southwest Virginia, businesses and individuals help artists, craftspeople, localities, nonprofits and entrepreneurs mobilize and succeed. The mission of Friends of Southwest Virginia is: • To preserve, promote and present the cultural and natural assets of Southwest Virginia; • To work in partnership in the region to generate economic development through these efforts; • To provide educational and cultural opportunities for the general public and students of the region; • To showcase the cultural assets of the Southwest Virginia Cultural Center & Marketplace. The Friends of Southwest Virginia is supported through a regional partnership program of the 19 counties, four cities and 53 towns of Southwest Virginia; while funding from the many communities varies, support across the region for a single front in economic redevelopment is unified.