PA Wilds Center for Entrepreneurship

The PA Wilds Center for Entrepreneurship, Inc. (PA Wilds Center) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit whose mission is to integrate conservation and economic development in a way that strengthens and inspires communities in the Pennsylvania Wilds. The Pennsylvania Wilds, one of the states 11 official tourism regions, is a large rural area that covers about a quarter of the Commonwealth and is home to about 4 percent of the states population. The 12 1/2 county landscape is known for its two million acres of public land more than Yellowstone National Park. It also boasts two National Wild & Scenic Rivers, the largest wild elk herd in the Northeast and some of the darkest skies in the country. It has a rich oil and lumber heritage. Tourism currently accounts for about 11 percent of the regions economy. It is not the only piece of the pie, but it is an important piece, because in addition to the jobs it creates, it also creates amenities that make it easier for our regions larger employers t...