Amesville Community Resources for Entrepreneurs (ACRE)


The mission of the Amesville Community Resources for Entrepreneurs (ACRE) is to develop and support enterprises that contribute to social, economic, and environmental sustainability – living in a manner that does not compromise the needs of future generations. We discover, build, and grow ventures that embrace the three elements of true sustainable success – People, Planet, and Prosperity.

Our mission includes providing access to funding, expertise, and a shared workspace – both physical and virtual – for startups, existing businesses, and nonprofits with sustainable business initiatives. We grow both artisan and non-artisan entities, including clean energy, water, and sustainable materials companies, as well as groups focused on efficiency and conservation. ACRE serves as a sustainability advocate for local communities and promotes the entrepreneurial spirit.

ACRE also provides space for workshops, seminars, and classes. As of late 2012, we have added the ACRE computer lab for training in word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and various other software. We started the New Coonskin Library during the summer of 2012 and are accepting donations of used books to make available to the general public. The library is based on the micro-library concept, where people take books or donate books at any time (no check-out).   

ACRE is now a certified Wildlife Habitat, per the National Wildlife Federation. Come see our landscape improvements and long-term plans for a diverse habitat. Certify Your Habitat to Help Wildlife! - Certified Wildlife Habitat

ACRE also houses the "New Coonskin Library," a FREE lending library featuring books donated by residents of Amesville. Books are located on the front patio area of ACRE (on the East side of the building, facing Franklin Street). This Micro Library houses about 1,000 books on topics ranging from gardening, history, travel, classics, and modern fiction. Take a book any time. Return it when you can and donate other books if you want. JOIN US EVERY FIRST TUESDAY AT 8:30 A.M. FOR THE NEW COONSKIN CAFE, FEATURING COFFEE, TEA, AND PASTRIES WHILE THE MUSEUM AND LIBRARY ARE OPEN. 

In addition to the library, ACRE also hosts the "Amesville Micro Museum". This small display highlights the importance of the Coonskin Library, the Underground Railroad, and local agriculture to Amesville. The original books from the Coonskin Library are housed either at the Ohio History Connection in Columbus or at the Ohio University Archives. Find more detailed information about the Coonskin Library at: http://www.ohio.edu/people/deanr/coonskin.html