In a U.S. News & World Report opinion piece, David Brodwin of the American Sustainable Business Council describes a “new movement” that drives economic development “at the local level, with local leadership, guided by a more robust and sustainable vision.”
Asheville is home to vision, drive, entrepreneurial spirit and a love of place, so it’s no surprise this emerging idea was addressed here at the D.I.Y. Economy Retreat last month, at which over 60 social entrepreneurs, designers, foundation members, and community organizers gathered.
The U.S. News & World Report article doesn’t explore a direct Asheville connection other than the conference happening here, but it’s ideas about a D.I.Y economy resonate. Asheville is popping with creative, unusual ideas that can shape an economy of place: Asheville Grown’s Go Local Card, the possible arrival of an accelerator within Mojo Coworking, the new Mycelium School, and a place-based social entrepreneurship accelerator possibly branching off from the Unreasonable Institute and arriving in Asheville.
Are these efforts the wave of the future?
From the article:
Americans are taking matters into their own hands. A new movement called the “D.I.Y. economy” is emerging. But in this context “D.I.Y.” takes on a different meaning: It’s not about going to Home Depot to get the parts you need to fix your sink; it’s about driving economic development at the local level, with local leadership, guided by a more robust and sustainable vision.
A conference was held in July in Asheville, N.C., organized by Ashoka, Rebuild the Dream, and Mycellium School to explore the potential for a D.I.Y. economy. I spoke at this event, representing New Economy Network and American Sustainable Business Council.
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The D.I.Y. economy idea offers a very different approach to economic development. It brings together different elements in a new and creative mix.
- Collaborative consumption
- Community capital
- Local procurement
- Local industrial development
Read the full article here: Americans Leading a ‘Do It Yourself Economy’ As Washington Stalls