Summary
An open association of businesses, non-profit organizations, and government agencies working together to bring about a more prosperous future for the Maine Mountain region. Our primary goal is to bring new revenues into the region through creative and sustainable use of our natural, historical, and cultural resources. We are guided by these principles: good stewardship of resources; true telling of stories (authenticity); equitable sharing of benefits.  

The Plan
In 2004, the Network published a market study (PDF) and a strategic plan (PDF). The market study suggested that several sectors offered development opportunities (wood products, tourism, handcraft) but that future regional prosperity could not rely on any single sector (no single sector strong enough). The strategic plan suggests development in several sectors organized around a single regional brand.

To provide a frame for its sector development and branding activities, the Network's strategic plan adopts the "heritage area" model employed by many other regional development efforts across the United States and the world. In 2006, the Network held a Rally for the Maine Mountain Heritage Area in which the basic aspects of the strategic plan were reaffirmed by a wide range of stakeholders.

Structure and Communications
To implement the plan, the Network resolved to operate as a true network, organizing action teams around emerging opportunities and objectives, aligning action across teams through a Coordinating Team. Mountain Counties Heritage, Inc. acts as steward of the Coordinating Team and provides communications support for the Network as a whole.

The Network publishes an electronic newsletter four times per year. Read Network News online or click here to subscribe and receive it in your inbox.

Programs
To learn more about the Network or to get involved, click on any of the program areas listed below.

• Knowledge Power - Building an integrated knowledge and communications system.
• Woods and Waters - Supporting multiple, sustainable uses of natural resources.
• Village Works - Promoting investment in hub communities.
• Mountain Made - Supporting production networks for signature products.
• Tourism Development - Developing heritage based tourism products.
  

Investment Opportunity Portfolio
The Network is developing a portfolio of "investment opportunities" – local projects that seek capital to move the regional development agenda forward.