Annual Report 2024

Our Mission and Impact

Appalachia Book Company (ABC) builds essential literary infrastructure in our region, creating meaningful opportunities for local writers and readers while preserving and promoting authentic Appalachian narratives. We address both cultural and economic challenges through our comprehensive approach to publishing, education, and community engagement.

Made in Appalachia Chapbook Series

Our flagship program, the Made in Appalachia chapbook series, provides crucial platforms for emerging regional voices. This series is specifically designed to give emerging authors their first book publication, raising their visibility in the literary world. Through our growing collection of chapbooks, available on our website, we are building a diverse library of authentic Appalachian voices and curating a modern interpretation of our region's rich literary history.

Podcast Development

In 2024, we began development of an innovative podcast project that reimagines Appalachian balladry through radio plays. This initiative adapts well-known ballads into dramatic productions, targeting general interest listeners while creating new opportunities for Appalachian playwrights. The project represents our commitment to preserving and reinventing traditional storytelling forms for contemporary audiences.

Community Impact

ABC's work extends deep into our rural communities through:

  • Free book distribution to local book clubs

  • Online literary programming

  • Publishing internships and educational partnerships

  • Professional development pathways that retain creative talent within Appalachia

Our efforts directly counter regional "brain drain" while challenging persistent cultural stereotypes about central Appalachia and eastern Kentucky. By carefully curating authentic local voices and stories, we build cultural pride and strengthen our community's literary foundation.

Executive Summary

Appalachia Book Company successfully secured significant grant funding in 2024 for its podcast project, while maintaining efficient operations and strong financial health. The company's focus on mission-driven projects, supported by grants and donations, has enabled substantial program development while maintaining a healthy financial position.

Financial Highlights

  • Total Revenue: $16,467.66

  • Grant Income: $14,124.00 (85.8% of total revenue)

  • Donations: $1,350.00 (8.2% of total revenue)

  • Net Profit: $10,192.29

  • Total Assets: $10,364.05

  • Total Equity: $9,889.05

Financial Performance Analysis

Revenue Sources

The company's 2024 revenue was primarily composed of:

  • Grants: $14,124.00

  • Donations: $1,350.00

  • Sales: $317.34

  • Reading Fees: $18.80

  • Other Income: $657.52

Grant funding represented 85.8% of total revenue, demonstrating strong success in securing institutional support for the podcast project. We’re pleased to report funding from three new sources: Kentucky Humanities Council, Berea College Appalachian Fund, and Gilliam Family Foundation. 2024 was our first year to participate in Kentucky Gives Day, and we reached new supportors with this initiative. Additional community support through donations (8.2% of revenue) further strengthened our financial foundation.

Program Costs and Efficiency

The company maintained excellent cost management with direct costs of only $669.67, primarily related to design ($55.66) and printing ($614.01). Operating expenses totaled $5,605.70, with key investments in:

  • Contractor Payments: $2,006.49

  • Technology Infrastructure:

    • Hosting: $639.91

    • Software: $275.85

    • Internet: $39.99

  • Writer Compensation: $300.00

Program Achievements and Value Creation

In 2024, ABC advanced its mission through two key programs:

  1. Made in Appalachia Chapbook Series

  • Continued to provide publishing opportunities for emerging regional authors

  • Expanded our collection of authentic Appalachian voices

  • Distributed books to local book clubs, extending our reach into rural communities

  • Maintained efficient production costs while ensuring high-quality publications

  1. Podcast Development

  • Secured significant grant funding for our innovative ballad adaptation project

  • Began development of radio play formats that will bring traditional Appalachian ballads to new audiences

  • Created opportunities for regional playwrights and performers

  • Invested in technology infrastructure to support high-quality audio production

These programs create value by:

  • Preserving and promoting authentic Appalachian narratives

  • Creating professional opportunities for regional creative talent

  • Building essential literary infrastructure in underserved communities

  • Challenging stereotypes while strengthening cultural identity

  • Providing educational and professional development pathways

Operational Efficiency

Despite the complexity of managing grant-funded projects, the company maintained strong operational efficiency:

  • Program delivery costs remained low relative to funding received

  • Technology infrastructure investments support scalable operations

  • Efficient use of contractor and creative talent resources

Looking Forward

With its strong grant funding base and efficient operational structure, Appalachia Book Company is well-positioned to continue developing and expanding its podcast project and related initiatives. The company's healthy cash position and proven ability to secure institutional support provide a strong foundation for future program development.

Management's Statement

The 2024 financial results reflect our success in securing and efficiently managing grant funding for our podcast project. Our strong financial position and lean operational structure enable us to maximize the impact of every dollar received through grants and donations. We look forward to building on this foundation to expand our program reach and impact in the coming year.