What is the WNC Pulse?
The WNC Pulse is web-based one stop shop of economic data and analysis for the 23 westernmost states of North Carolina. The website was developed and proofed in the summer of 2008 and we are currently in the process of fleshing out the site with relevant tools and data. We welcome your feedback and recommend you check the site often for updates - if a feature or data set isn't on there now, odds are it soon will be.

Who operates and publishes the WNC Pulse?
The Institute for the Economy and the Future (IEF), a regional economic development think tank located on the campus of Western Carolina University in Cullowhee, North Carolina produces the WNC Pulse. To learn more about the Institute for the Economy and the Future, visit the IEF website.

Who is the WNC Pulse’s intended audience?
The WNC Pulse hopes to engage all western North Carolina community members. Political leaders, healthcare officials, business owners, members of academia, economic development practitioners, emergency preparedness officials and citizens should feel comfortable navigating the site and utilizing the information and analysis provided.

What are the 23 westernmost counties of western North Carolina?
The 23 westernmost counties in western North Carolina are: Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania, Watauga, Wilkes and Yancey.

Where does the IEF obtain the data used in the WNC Pulse?
The IEF employs the use of several databases from agencies including the U.S. Census Bureau, BEA, NC Department of Commerce, Woods and Poole, Harris as well as internal survey research conducted at the IEF. To learn more about these agencies, visit the Data Sources page

How do I view my county’s profile page?
To view your county’s profile page, scroll through the various county profile links found in the “Pulse County Websites” utility on the top level WNC Pulse page and select your county. You can also access your county’s profile through the County Profile page.

I cannot find my county’s profile page in the Pulse County Profile inventory. Where is it?
The IEF intends on creating county profile pages for the 23 westernmost counties in North Carolina. If you cannot find your county’s profile page, it most likely has not been developed yet. Profile pages are tactfully cultivated to ensure maximum utility for each individual county. Because this process takes time we ask for your patience.

How often is the WNC Pulse content updated?
The IEF updates the “top level” regional WNC Pulse page on a daily basis. County profiles will be updated as needed.

How do I view the rich media content?
You can select rich media content from the recent video box located on the WNC Pulse homepage. You can also view rich media content through the Media page.

Why am I having difficulty loading the WNC Pulse website?
We recommend using a Mozilla or Safari browser to load the WNC Pulse page. If you are using Internet Explorer 6.0, wesuggest you download Internet Explorer 7.0. You will need a Flash Media Player to view the WNC Pulse video content.

I have an economic issue that should be addressed. Will the IEF consider researching and analyzing it?
The IEF will consider any regional or county issue relevant to western North Carolina to research and analyze. Please visit our Contact Us page to make a recommendation.

How do I contact the WNC Pulse or the IEF?
General WNC Pulse questions or comments can be emailed to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or you can reach the IEF at (828) 227-7492. You can also contact individual staff members through the Contact Us page.