Western Carolina University

The Rapid Center, an EDA-designated university center, and Western Carolina University are situated in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains – and in one of 10 “Megapolitan” geographical regions in the U.S.*

These functional economic regions transcend political borders and are connected by factors including commuter and goods movement, business linkages and cultural commonality. The Rapid Center serves businesses and industries throughout the Southeast and beyond, providing access to “mega” product development resources and working to achieve our goals of economic transformation and engaged learning.

*“Beyond Megalopolis: Exploring America’s New “Megapolitan” Geography,” 2005 Metropolitan Institute at VA Tech Census Report Series.

Learn More

If you want to know more about the work of the Rapid Center, or if you would like to talk with faculty or tour our facilities, please contact Patrick Gardner or Ryan Taylor.

Visit the School

Please visit the Kimmel School to learn more about what the school is doing as a leader in higher education and as a partner in technology-led economic development throughout the region.