What we do
The Mountain Association is a nonprofit, established in 1976, that invests in people and places in Eastern Kentucky to advance a just transition to a new economy that is more diverse, sustainable, equitable and resilient.
We serve this mission in a number of ways. Our Lending team offers loans to existing and startup businesses and organizations. Because we are a Community Development Financial Institution and a nonprofit, we can offer greater flexibility and lend to those who may not otherwise qualify. Unlike most traditional lenders, we offer flexible payment schedules and a variety of other services.
Our Business Support program connects business owners and nonprofit leaders to consultants who can help them succeed – from website development to social media marketing, and more.
Our Energy experts help businesses, organizations and public agencies find much-needed energy savings. We do this through utility bill analysis, on-site energy efficiency and solar assessments, grant application support, and financing.
We also engage in research, communications and advocacy for policy and narrative change, and work with partners on a variety of projects to demonstrate what’s possible in Eastern Kentucky.
We serve communities across
Appalachian Kentucky
Adair
Bath
Bell
Boyd
Breathitt
Casey
Carter
Clark
Clay
Clinton
Cumberland
Edmonson
Elliott
Estill
Fleming
Floyd
Garrard
Green
Greenup
Harlan
Hart
Jackson
Johnson
Knott
Knox
Laurel
Lawrence
Lee
Leslie
Letcher
Lewis
Lincoln
Madison
Magoffin
Martin
McCreary
Menifee
Metcalfe
Monroe
Montgomery
Morgan
Nicholas
Owsley
Perry
Pike
Powell
Pulaski
Robertson
Rockcastle
Rowan
Russell
Wayne
Whitley
Wolfe
Our Affiliates and Fiscal Sponsorships:
We also provide support to networks and non-profits that are aligned with our mission. Currently, we provide fiscal sponsorship and support for three networks and two affiliates that are advancing a just transition to a new economy: Central Appalachian Network, Ridgeway Leadership, What’s Next EKY?!, Kentucky Natural Lands Trust and Kentucky Center for Economic Policy.
Our Equity Goal & Updates:
The Mountain Association is committed to building a strong and sustainable Appalachian Kentucky, rooted in hope and inclusion, with an economy that is more diverse, sustainable, equitable and resilient. We strive to foster an inclusive environment internally for our team and externally through program development and implementation, equitable lending practices, and partnerships in the communities we serve.
Since 2018, we have been on an intentional journey to make our work more equitable, inclusive and accessible. We are sharing regular updates on our progress through this site: mtassociation.org/equity
Additionally, we are further held accountable to these goals by our Equity Advisory Council made up of community members.
