The Healing Frontier Gathering
A working day for scientists, founders, clinicians, investors, and regional builders ready to shape what comes next for nature and its connection to healing in western North Carolina.
This event is invitation only. To be considered for an invitation, please email alexmsimon@gmail.com providing some indication of interest and why you would be a great addition to the event.
The opportunity
Can Western North Carolina become the epicenter for nature-related healing?
The world is rediscovering nature as a source of medicine. Modern biology, artificial intelligence, natural products chemistry, regenerative agriculture, and traditional knowledge are converging in exciting ways. Western North Carolina has many of the qualities and history to be the epicenter of discussion and work towards this convergence — and this is the moment to build.
Natural products
Working sessions
Cross-sector
Arboretum setting
The experience
Designed for real conversation
Small. Invitation-driven. Cross-disciplinary. The day is structured for meaningful exchange rather than back-to-back presentations — with time on the land, curated discussions, and space for the connections that turn ideas into action.
In good company
Partners & supporters
Organizations helping bring the region’s scientists, founders, clinicians, and builders together.
Host
The North Carolina Arboretum
Set on 434 acres within the Pisgah National Forest just outside Asheville, the Arboretum is home to the Bent Creek Institute and one of the country's foremost programs in medicinal plant research. It is the natural home for a conversation about the future of nature-derived healing.
We are looking for doers, not spectators
People excited about a possible future that resonates with the region’s past — an entrepreneurship, innovation, and economic development story that makes real sense for Western North Carolina.
This event is invitation only. To be considered for an invitation, please email alexmsimon@gmail.com with an indication of interest and why you would be a great addition to the event.
Stay connected
Stay in the loop
Get occasional updates about the gathering, future events, and activities across the region.