Empowering Appalachia Small Businesses
Inspired by Family & Community.
Born and raised in Johnson City, Tennessee, President & Founder Amisha Agrawal grew up around her family’s small business. For years, she watched her parents pour their hearts into building a thriving small business, while also serving their community with pride and resilience.
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, many small businesses were heavily impacted. In the Appalachia region, they are not only economic anchors but cultural lifelines for Appalachian communities.
This awareness became the spark behind Appalachia Advisory. What started as a personal connection grew into a mission: to support the small businesses that are the backbone of Appalachia communities.
Our Why: Bridging the Gap
Appalachia Advisory was founded to address a critical gap: small businesses in the Appalachian region often face systemic barriers to accessing high-quality, affordable strategic support. As students and young professionals committed to economic equity, we saw an opportunity to apply our skills where they could make the most difference.
We believe local businesses are the true engines of Appalachia’s economic prosperity, cultural preservation, and long-term revitalization.
The Appalachia region is home to more than 740,000 small businesses. Yet, only 17% ever receive consulting support. At the same time, many counties across the region, particularly in Central Appalachia, face consistent poverty rates nearing 20%.
While access to strategic resources remains limited, the resilience and potential of Appalachian entrepreneurs is undeniable.
That is why we are investing in the people and places that have long been underestimated, because we believe local entrepreneurship is the most powerful force for long-term inclusive growth.