Business Development

To use member expertise and resources in the support of existing business growth and prosperity.

   

The Business Development Committee is a member-driven group dedicated to strengthening the High Country's business environment — from the ground floor up. Whether supporting established businesses looking to grow, entrepreneurs ready to launch, or companies considering a move to the region, the committee connects people, resources, and ideas that move the local economy forward.

Values
  • We support existing businesses by connecting them to member expertise, resources, and peer networks that help them grow and adapt.
  • We support entrepreneurs and companies looking to launch or relocate by providing guidance and connections that make the High Country a compelling place to invest.
  • We support small businesses and start-ups through targeted programs and mentorship that lower barriers to entry and build long-term resilience.
  • We support active participation in community business councils to ensure the Chamber's voice shapes the conversations that matter.
  • We support shop local initiatives and tourism promotion that drive revenue to High Country businesses and strengthen our locally rooted economy.
  • We support the free flow of business-beneficial information by serving as a trusted resource and referral hub for our members and the broader community.
Priorities
  • Initiate programs and services targeted at the advancement of small businesses and start-ups.

  • Participate in community-based business councils to enhance discussion on key community projects.

  • Partner with tourism promotion organizations to further promote the High Country as a major tourism destination.

  • Serve as a referral, distribution, and communication source of business-beneficial information.

  • Coordinate "shop local" activities during key retail seasons.

  • Work to assist entrepreneurs and companies seeking to expand/relocate to the High Country. 

Business Development Committee

  • Heidi Ragan

    Heidi Ragan

    Watauga District Manager, Blue Ridge Energy

    Committee Chair

  • David Jackson

    David Jackson, CCEC

    President/CEO, Boone Area Chamber of Commerce

    Chamber Liaison

  • Joe Furman

    Joe Furman, AICP Certified Planner

    Director of Economic Development, Boone Area Chamber of Commerce

    EDC Liaison

  • Dr. Harry Davis

    Dr. Harry Davis

    NCBA Professor of Banking, Appalachian State University

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    (828)262-6245

    Committee Member

  • Pilar Fotta

    Assistant Director for Relocation and Dual Careers, Appalachian State University

    Committee Member

  • Stephen McDaniel

    The McDaniel Group Real Estate

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    (828)964-0325

    Committee Member

  • James Milner

    James Milner, CCIM, NC Real Estate Broker, NC Certified General Appraiser

    President & Owner, Appalachian Commercial Real Estate

    Committee Member

  • Lane Moody

    Downtown Boone Development Association

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    (828)406-1393

    Committee Member

  • Melody Pineda

    Director of Real Estate, Appalachian State University

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    (828)262-8776

    Committee Member

  • Ryan Postlethwait

    Senior VP Commercial Banking Team Lead, First National Bank

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    (828)355-2203

    Committee Member

  • Amanda White

    Amanda White

    First Horizon Bank

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    (828)263-8605

    Committee Member