What we do
The Mountain Association is a nonprofit, established in 1976, that invests in people and places in order to build to a new economy in Eastern Kentucky.
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 businesses and nonprofits to consultants who can help them succeed – whether they need to develop a website, work on their social media marketing, get an accounting system set-up, etc.
Our Energy experts help businesses, organizations and public agencies find much-needed cost 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 nonprofits that are aligned with our mission. Currently, we provide fiscal sponsorship and support for three networks and two affiliates that are also working toward a new economy: Central Appalachian Network, Ridgeway Leadership, What’s Next EKY?!, Kentucky Natural Lands Trust and Kentucky Center for Economic Policy.
