Stacie Dei

CEO & Founder

stacie@appalachianinnovation.org

Stacie Dei is the founder and director of the Appalachian Innovation Collective, a nonprofit initiative focused on growing leaders, building community, and sparking innovation across rural communities. With more than two decades of experience in nonprofit leadership, civic engagement, and community development, Stacie brings a heart-forward, action-driven approach to her work.

Under her leadership, the Collective houses initiatives such as Grow West Virginia, which engages communities in civic life and grassroots change, and the Mountain State Leadership Lab, which provides accessible leadership development for emerging and nontraditional leaders across the region.

Stacie’s work is rooted in the belief that rural communities are rich with potential — and that when people are equipped with the right tools, support, and connections, they can lead transformative change from wherever they are. She is passionate about helping people find their voice, their power, and their path forward — especially those who don’t always see themselves as “leaders.”

Her approach blends visionary thinking with practical action, and her programs reflect a deep commitment to equity, authenticity, and inclusive growth.