HIGH-GROUND ADVANTAGES
Wise County’s high-ground advantages are powered by more than our natural elevation—it's fueled by forward-thinking. Once the East Coast’s energy powerhouse, Wise County is again leading the way by repurposing reclaimed coal mine lands and legacy infrastructure to support the industries of tomorrow. With affordable sites, infrastructure, high-speed broadband, and a skilled and eager workforce ecosystem, we’re ready to power data centers, energy innovation, and advanced manufacturing here in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains.
Moving mountains to make it happen
Wise County doesn’t wait—we work. Our community is energized and ready to welcome new industries with the speed, support, and flexibility that today’s businesses demand. From pro-business policies and rapid permitting to customized workforce training and unique incentive solutions, we’re all in on your success.
Whether you're launching, expanding, or relocating, you'll find a region ready to move mountains to make it happen.
In Wise County, hard work is in our DNA. As we transition and diversify across new industries, we’re building the workforce of tomorrow — skilled and motivated. Here, cutting-edge workforce training opportunities meet high-achieving talent in a location where the cost of living is 30% below the national average, creating unparalleled value for employers.
Key local institutions making it happen include:
Preparing students for both college and careers through hands-on training and relevant co-curriculars.
Offering tailored workforce training and specialized programs at the MECC Center for Workforce & Innovation of Appalachia.
The only branch of the University of Virginia, UVA Wise is a nationally recognized public liberal arts institution, offering experiential learning and innovation-focused programs. As a designated APLU Innovation and Economic Prosperity (IEP) institution, the College is an invaluable asset and partner for both residents and businesses.
Powerful partnerships
Connect to a collaborative network of regional partnerships to unlock support related to capital access, technical assistance, and general know-how from organizations like these:
A place to call home
Advance your career while creating a life you love — surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, connected to welcoming communities, and supported by exceptional education, recreation, and opportunity. In Wise County, you don’t have to choose between professional success and personal fulfillment — you can have both.