The Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation
Local giving, regional impact fueling long-term growth.
The Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation (BACCF) is the giving arm of the Chamber, created to support projects and initiatives that help Boone and surrounding areas thrive. As a 501(c)3 nonprofit, the Foundation helps gather and distribute funding and resources that fuel long-term growth in our region.
Donate to the Foundation
Local gifting, regional impact. Every gift helps power programs that build a stronger, more vibrant High Country — thank you for investing in our community’s future. Here's how your gift makes an impact:
PRIORITIES
For more than 25 years, WLI has been the High Country's premier leadership development program, bringing together professionals each year for seven full-day sessions of community site visits, expert speakers, and growth. Spring 2026 marked the first year of WLI operating under the Foundation — formalizing its role in the region's long-term workforce development strategy. Graduates join a 500+ alumni network spanning every sector of the regional economy, from healthcare and education to agriculture and local government. Learn More →
The Foundation administers this fund in support of the goals established in the Elevate Watauga initiative, directing resources toward workforce development and educational attainment for Watauga County's early childhood workforce. In 2025, the fund directed more than $75,000 to childcare workers and providers — allowing parents to stay in the workforce and keep every licensed childcare center in the county operating. The Foundation aims to continue connecting the High Country business community with childcare support. Learn More →
The Foundation actively supports efforts to expand attainable and affordable housing in Watauga County, including involvement in the Watauga County Housing Council and the Watauga Community Housing Trust. Funds directed here support projects, studies, and initiatives that create real housing solutions for local residents and employers.
STABLE — Staff Training and Business Leadership for Evolving workplaces — launched in Watauga County in 2024 with a vision of thriving workplaces sustained by a stable workforce. The Foundation serves as the financial partner of this effort, seeking grants to help subsidize the STABLE curriculum and support local businesses in building stronger, more resilient teams. Learn More →
Since moving into its new facility at Greenway Commons in 2023, the Chamber has been committed to maintaining a welcoming space for staff and members alike. Contributions to this area help cover facility needs, ensuring that membership dollars stay focused on serving the business community. 
Unrestricted gifts to the Foundation give us the flexibility to respond where the need is greatest; whether that's business grants, scholarships, community event support, or emerging priorities not covered by membership dues or events; every dollar stays in the High Country.PRIORITIES IN ACTION
Early Childhood Development & Education Fund - Foundation Launches Campaign to Provide Retention Bonus to Childcare Workers in Watauga County
BACCF continues the tradition of linking the High Country business community to ongoing support for the childcare industry and its critical workforce. Learn More →
High Country Business Resiliency Disaster Grant
The High Country Business Resiliency Disaster Grant was established in response to Hurricane Helene, this emergency grant program has since distributed more than $975,000 to over 200 small businesses across Watauga, Ashe, and Avery Counties — helping them keep their doors open and their employees working. Learn More →
BACCF Receives $250,000 Grant to Support Long-Term Economic Recovery and Small Business Resilience
Grant funds awarded from the Center for Disaster Philanthropy's Truist Foundation Western NC Recovery and Resieliency Fund. Learn More →
STABLE Workplaces - BACC Receives Grant for STABLE Workplaces
STABLE — Staff Training and Business Leadership for Evolving workplaces — is a workforce initiative focused on workplace culture, employee retention, and building a supported local workforce. This initiative helped businesses across Watauga County better recruit and retain the talent they depend on. Learn More →
CONTACT
For any questions please contact: Ethan Dodson at ethan@boonechamber.com.
