The Outdoor Business Alliance announced the appointment of Conner Borkowski as its new Executive Director. 

“I’m incredibly excited to join the Outdoor Business Alliance at such a pivotal moment," Borkowski said. "Western North Carolina has a deep-rooted outdoor culture and an inspiring community of businesses and leaders shaping what a resilient, inclusive outdoor economy can look like for the rest of the nation. I’m honored to be returning to North Carolina and to build on the OBA’s momentum, working alongside such a passionate network of businesses and partners to grow a more connected, inclusive, and resilient outdoor economy across the region."

This full-time Executive Director position is made possible with support from the Appalachian Regional Commissions READY Grants to Grow, that help Appalachian organizations obtain the skills, knowledge and resources necessary to strengthen their local economies – now and into the future.

Conner brings energy, ideas and vital ecosystem building experience to the role, and is ready to lead the organization through an exciting era of expansion to grow its strategic partnerships, establish localized programming in hubs across the region, and ensure the organization’s long-term sustainability.

Borkowski began work on April 1st, 2026, and will work in tandem through a transitional period with Interim Executive Director, Dorene O’Malley, that includes the organization’s flagship annual event, the 2026 Get in Gear Fest, taking place April 25, 2026 at New Belgium Brewery in Asheville. The OBA is grateful to Dorene for her service and leadership in the role of Interim Executive Director during a year of immense organizational growth and a vital need for community support as the outdoor industry and WNC region continues to recover from the impacts of Hurricane Helene, while also facing nationwide economic challenges.

Source: Outdoor Business Alliance.