Mountain West Partnership is excited to announce Eli Hashemi as its new Director.
Eli brings a wealth of operational management experience, providing her with firsthand knowledge of the unique needs of organizations of all sizes. Those years have helped shape her understanding of the realities businesses face and the need for planning to ensure long-term sustainability and growth.
Before joining MWP, Eli worked with NC State University on a grant initiative designed to support local businesses in Western North Carolina’s hospitality and tourism sectors as they recovered from the impacts of the 2020 pandemic.
Since joining MWP in 2023, Eli has worked on business retention and expansion, as well as various regional economic development projects. She has been instrumental in amplifying WeSpeak WNC Business and providing ongoing support for businesses and communities across the MWP service area. She also serves on the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.
Eli brings an unwavering commitment to Western North Carolina, advancing regional projects, strengthening business and resource connections, and supporting ongoing economic development efforts. Her strategic communication and business-centered approach will help guide MWP’s next chapter with purpose and momentum.
Mountain West Partnership is poised to move forward with steady leadership and an uninterrupted commitment to Western North Carolina. As a Director, Eli will build on the organization’s existing momentum by supporting established businesses, fostering regional partnerships, and advancing initiatives that strengthen the area’s economic development.
She will also work across all industries and communities to attract new workforce and business opportunities, advance site readiness efforts, and connect businesses with critical resources that help strengthen the economic ecosystem of the seven westernmost counties and the Qualla Boundary.
As part of the Southwestern Commission, MWP will continue to support business growth, regional promotion, connect workforce and business resources, address infrastructure needs, and build the momentum of We Speak WNC Business.
We look forward to this next chapter and to continuing the work alongside the businesses, partners, and communities that make Western North Carolina such a special place to live, work, and serve.
