Upcoming events and things to do in Asheville, NC. Below is a list of events for festivals, concerts, art exhibitions, group meetups and more.

Interested in adding an event to our calendar? Please click the green “Post Your Event” button below.

Saturday, May 21, 2022
AmeriCorps opportunities with Asheville Habitat
May 21 @ 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity

Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity is seeking six
AmeriCorps members for a year-long service opportunity beginning in August. Positions
are Construction Crew Leader, New Homes  (2) Construction Crew Leader, Repair (3),
and Volunteer Services Coordinator (1). Members receive a living allowance and other
benefits. Those with a passion for affordable housing, an adventurous spirit, and a
sincere desire to serve others are encouraged to apply.
At Asheville Habitat, AmeriCorps members play an important role in providing
leadership on project sites, engaging volunteers to become champions for the mission,
and creating new tools and systems to build capacity. During a year of service,
members gain insight into a non-profit organization and receive hands-on experience in
leadership, team building, public speaking, and community development. For some,
AmeriCorps is an experiential gap year before college, grad school, or a career; for
others it is a stepping stone towards a job in the non-profit sector.

Sunday, May 22, 2022
AmeriCorps opportunities with Asheville Habitat
May 22 @ 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity

Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity is seeking six
AmeriCorps members for a year-long service opportunity beginning in August. Positions
are Construction Crew Leader, New Homes  (2) Construction Crew Leader, Repair (3),
and Volunteer Services Coordinator (1). Members receive a living allowance and other
benefits. Those with a passion for affordable housing, an adventurous spirit, and a
sincere desire to serve others are encouraged to apply.
At Asheville Habitat, AmeriCorps members play an important role in providing
leadership on project sites, engaging volunteers to become champions for the mission,
and creating new tools and systems to build capacity. During a year of service,
members gain insight into a non-profit organization and receive hands-on experience in
leadership, team building, public speaking, and community development. For some,
AmeriCorps is an experiential gap year before college, grad school, or a career; for
others it is a stepping stone towards a job in the non-profit sector.

Monday, May 23, 2022
Buncombe County Organizations: Apply For Free Hotspots and Service
May 23 all-day
online w/ US Cellular

Buncombe County Organizations Can Apply For Free Hotspots and Service As Part of $13 Million Dollar Pledge From UScellular

ASAP- Call for Apps FINAL

Access to reliable internet connectivity causes a divide between Asheville area youth who have access and those who do not. Millions of children nationwide and many right here in our area rely on public Wi-Fi to study when away from school. We are thrilled to announce that UScellular is providing $13 million dollars in free mobile hotspots and service to bridge this issue knows as the “homework gap”.

We encourage nonprofits working with youth in afterschool programs to apply and use this resource to enhance the important work they are already doing. Nonprofit organizations that meet the following criteria are encouraged to apply:

– Certified 501c3 nonprofit organizations
– Operate within UScellular’s service area
– Focused on kindergarten through 12th grade
– Not a school or government entity

To apply, click here.

If you’re not currently set up as an applicant on Grants Connect, you will need to set up an applicant profile first. Once you’ve set up your profile, click the above link or refresh your page to be taken to the After School Access Project landing page. If you have any questions, please email [email protected].

Students across Western North Carolina deserve the tools and resources they need to succeed. Hotspots are stand-alone Wi-Fi networks that can connect several devices at once wirelessly and have proven to be a vital tool for youth to access the internet, study and complete homework. In 2021, UScellular donated 2,800 hotspots and service to 33 Boys & Girls Clubs across the country, a $2.6 million investment. Clubs have used them to boost their connectivity on site and loaned the devices out to youth and their families to support reliable access at home. Now more organizations have the opportunity to apply.

Multifamily Recycling Grant Program
May 23 all-day
online w/ North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality
 

NC DEACS Accepting Applications Now!

Last month DEACS launched a Multifamily Recycling Grant to support recycling at multifamily properties in North Carolina. Local governments, recycling businesses, and property management companies are all eligible to apply for funding. Grant funding can be used to purchase equipment and site developments to establish or expand recycling access for multifamily units. The maximum award is $250,000.

  • Multifamily Recycling Grant Program – OPEN
    This special grant program offers funding to initiate or expand multifamily recycling programs within the state. Eligible applicants include local governments, recycling businesses or non-profits, multifamily property owners, or multifamily property management companies. Grant funds may be used to purchase typical equipment needs to start or expand the collection of traditional household recyclables (paper, cardboard, metal cans, glass and plastic bottles and containers) from multifamily residences. Examples of eligible purchases include carts, dumpsters, collection vehicles, concrete pads, recycling corrals and education. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis with no due date. Approved grant applications will be funded in the order in which they are received until funding is exhausted.

    Download the Multifamily Recycling Grant request for proposals (RFP) by selecting one of the following links (PDF or Word). Please submit completed applications to Tara Nattress at [email protected].

Legislative Breakfast
May 23 @ 8:00 am – 10:00 am
The Venue

The Chamber presents its top priorities of the Legislative Agenda to Western North Carolina’s legislative delegation. Based on member feedback, the Agenda is crafted by the Advocacy and Policy Committee and approved by the Chamber Board. During this event, members of the delegation will share their thoughts about the legislative session with the business community. Chamber members will have the opportunity to discuss critical issues directly with Western North Carolina members of the NC House and Senate.

 

Traditionally this is a luncheon event, however with the General Session schedule, we are pivoting to a morning event, hosted at The Venue in downtown Asheville. We will enjoy continental breakfast in a social setting, then move to the presentation area where seating is theater style.

 

Cost is $35 for Chamber members, and $55 for non-members. Space is limited and registration will close May 19th.

Influence, Champion and Signature partners (members at these tiers) should log in to use your member benefit for complimentary tickets.

Refunds available only if registration is cancelled prior to May 13th.

AmeriCorps opportunities with Asheville Habitat
May 23 @ 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity

Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity is seeking six
AmeriCorps members for a year-long service opportunity beginning in August. Positions
are Construction Crew Leader, New Homes  (2) Construction Crew Leader, Repair (3),
and Volunteer Services Coordinator (1). Members receive a living allowance and other
benefits. Those with a passion for affordable housing, an adventurous spirit, and a
sincere desire to serve others are encouraged to apply.
At Asheville Habitat, AmeriCorps members play an important role in providing
leadership on project sites, engaging volunteers to become champions for the mission,
and creating new tools and systems to build capacity. During a year of service,
members gain insight into a non-profit organization and receive hands-on experience in
leadership, team building, public speaking, and community development. For some,
AmeriCorps is an experiential gap year before college, grad school, or a career; for
others it is a stepping stone towards a job in the non-profit sector.

Tuesday, May 24, 2022
Buncombe County Organizations: Apply For Free Hotspots and Service
May 24 all-day
online w/ US Cellular

Buncombe County Organizations Can Apply For Free Hotspots and Service As Part of $13 Million Dollar Pledge From UScellular

ASAP- Call for Apps FINAL

Access to reliable internet connectivity causes a divide between Asheville area youth who have access and those who do not. Millions of children nationwide and many right here in our area rely on public Wi-Fi to study when away from school. We are thrilled to announce that UScellular is providing $13 million dollars in free mobile hotspots and service to bridge this issue knows as the “homework gap”.

We encourage nonprofits working with youth in afterschool programs to apply and use this resource to enhance the important work they are already doing. Nonprofit organizations that meet the following criteria are encouraged to apply:

– Certified 501c3 nonprofit organizations
– Operate within UScellular’s service area
– Focused on kindergarten through 12th grade
– Not a school or government entity

To apply, click here.

If you’re not currently set up as an applicant on Grants Connect, you will need to set up an applicant profile first. Once you’ve set up your profile, click the above link or refresh your page to be taken to the After School Access Project landing page. If you have any questions, please email [email protected].

Students across Western North Carolina deserve the tools and resources they need to succeed. Hotspots are stand-alone Wi-Fi networks that can connect several devices at once wirelessly and have proven to be a vital tool for youth to access the internet, study and complete homework. In 2021, UScellular donated 2,800 hotspots and service to 33 Boys & Girls Clubs across the country, a $2.6 million investment. Clubs have used them to boost their connectivity on site and loaned the devices out to youth and their families to support reliable access at home. Now more organizations have the opportunity to apply.

Multifamily Recycling Grant Program
May 24 all-day
online w/ North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality
 

NC DEACS Accepting Applications Now!

Last month DEACS launched a Multifamily Recycling Grant to support recycling at multifamily properties in North Carolina. Local governments, recycling businesses, and property management companies are all eligible to apply for funding. Grant funding can be used to purchase equipment and site developments to establish or expand recycling access for multifamily units. The maximum award is $250,000.

  • Multifamily Recycling Grant Program – OPEN
    This special grant program offers funding to initiate or expand multifamily recycling programs within the state. Eligible applicants include local governments, recycling businesses or non-profits, multifamily property owners, or multifamily property management companies. Grant funds may be used to purchase typical equipment needs to start or expand the collection of traditional household recyclables (paper, cardboard, metal cans, glass and plastic bottles and containers) from multifamily residences. Examples of eligible purchases include carts, dumpsters, collection vehicles, concrete pads, recycling corrals and education. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis with no due date. Approved grant applications will be funded in the order in which they are received until funding is exhausted.

    Download the Multifamily Recycling Grant request for proposals (RFP) by selecting one of the following links (PDF or Word). Please submit completed applications to Tara Nattress at [email protected].

Nominations accepted for the Blue Ridge Business Growth + Rising Star Awards
May 24 all-day
online

The Blue Ridge Business Growth Awards (companies in business over 3 years) and Rising Star Awards (companies in business less than 3 years) will be presented to Chamber member businesses that experienced growth in 2020 through quality management, inventiveness, old fashioned hard work and courage. Companies can be recognized for employment growth, revenue growth, or a combination.
Download a nomination form today. Deadline is August 19th
AM Power Hour
May 24 @ 8:00 am – 9:00 am
Mills River Brewery
Gather ● Relate ● Organize ● Work
Join us to stay updated on business in Mills River. With updates from the Town of Mills River and networking with neighboring businesses, let’s work to GROW your business in Mills River.
AmeriCorps opportunities with Asheville Habitat
May 24 @ 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity

Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity is seeking six
AmeriCorps members for a year-long service opportunity beginning in August. Positions
are Construction Crew Leader, New Homes  (2) Construction Crew Leader, Repair (3),
and Volunteer Services Coordinator (1). Members receive a living allowance and other
benefits. Those with a passion for affordable housing, an adventurous spirit, and a
sincere desire to serve others are encouraged to apply.
At Asheville Habitat, AmeriCorps members play an important role in providing
leadership on project sites, engaging volunteers to become champions for the mission,
and creating new tools and systems to build capacity. During a year of service,
members gain insight into a non-profit organization and receive hands-on experience in
leadership, team building, public speaking, and community development. For some,
AmeriCorps is an experiential gap year before college, grad school, or a career; for
others it is a stepping stone towards a job in the non-profit sector.

Attract New Customers to Your Business Through Google My Business
May 24 @ 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
online w/ BLUE RIDGE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

No cost due to sponsor support

BEST PRACTICE: One of the best ways to be found on the Internet to market your business is with Google My Business to attract new customers that can be repeat profitable customers. Until you are Top of Mind in marketing this helps you become Top of Search in Marketing for free.

Prior to Google my Business, you had to consistently work to be found near the top of page one on search. By being listed on Google My Business and learning how to move up in Search Engine Optimization (SEO) tools, you are near the top of page one in search. Plus, it is free.

According to Google My Business:

A. Makes it easy for your business to be in one, easy-to-use location.

B. Puts your business info on Search, Maps and Google+ so that customers can find you, no matter what device they’re using.

C. Gives customers the right info at the right time, whether that be driving directions to your business in Maps, hours of operations in Search or a phone number they can click to call you on mobile phones.

D. Helps build a loyal fan base. Customers can show their appreciation with ratings and reviews, use the +1 button to endorse your content, and re-share your Google+ posts across the web.

This seminar is good for creating your Google My Business site and for those that “already” have Google My Business that want to move up in Google.


Speaker(s): Gary Heisey

Co-Sponsor(s): Henderson County Chamber of Commerce/Brevard Transylvania Chamber of Commerce

Webinar info will be emailed after registration

Wednesday, May 25, 2022
Buncombe County Organizations: Apply For Free Hotspots and Service
May 25 all-day
online w/ US Cellular

Buncombe County Organizations Can Apply For Free Hotspots and Service As Part of $13 Million Dollar Pledge From UScellular

ASAP- Call for Apps FINAL

Access to reliable internet connectivity causes a divide between Asheville area youth who have access and those who do not. Millions of children nationwide and many right here in our area rely on public Wi-Fi to study when away from school. We are thrilled to announce that UScellular is providing $13 million dollars in free mobile hotspots and service to bridge this issue knows as the “homework gap”.

We encourage nonprofits working with youth in afterschool programs to apply and use this resource to enhance the important work they are already doing. Nonprofit organizations that meet the following criteria are encouraged to apply:

– Certified 501c3 nonprofit organizations
– Operate within UScellular’s service area
– Focused on kindergarten through 12th grade
– Not a school or government entity

To apply, click here.

If you’re not currently set up as an applicant on Grants Connect, you will need to set up an applicant profile first. Once you’ve set up your profile, click the above link or refresh your page to be taken to the After School Access Project landing page. If you have any questions, please email [email protected].

Students across Western North Carolina deserve the tools and resources they need to succeed. Hotspots are stand-alone Wi-Fi networks that can connect several devices at once wirelessly and have proven to be a vital tool for youth to access the internet, study and complete homework. In 2021, UScellular donated 2,800 hotspots and service to 33 Boys & Girls Clubs across the country, a $2.6 million investment. Clubs have used them to boost their connectivity on site and loaned the devices out to youth and their families to support reliable access at home. Now more organizations have the opportunity to apply.

Multifamily Recycling Grant Program
May 25 all-day
online w/ North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality
 

NC DEACS Accepting Applications Now!

Last month DEACS launched a Multifamily Recycling Grant to support recycling at multifamily properties in North Carolina. Local governments, recycling businesses, and property management companies are all eligible to apply for funding. Grant funding can be used to purchase equipment and site developments to establish or expand recycling access for multifamily units. The maximum award is $250,000.

  • Multifamily Recycling Grant Program – OPEN
    This special grant program offers funding to initiate or expand multifamily recycling programs within the state. Eligible applicants include local governments, recycling businesses or non-profits, multifamily property owners, or multifamily property management companies. Grant funds may be used to purchase typical equipment needs to start or expand the collection of traditional household recyclables (paper, cardboard, metal cans, glass and plastic bottles and containers) from multifamily residences. Examples of eligible purchases include carts, dumpsters, collection vehicles, concrete pads, recycling corrals and education. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis with no due date. Approved grant applications will be funded in the order in which they are received until funding is exhausted.

    Download the Multifamily Recycling Grant request for proposals (RFP) by selecting one of the following links (PDF or Word). Please submit completed applications to Tara Nattress at [email protected].

Nominations accepted for the Blue Ridge Business Growth + Rising Star Awards
May 25 all-day
online

The Blue Ridge Business Growth Awards (companies in business over 3 years) and Rising Star Awards (companies in business less than 3 years) will be presented to Chamber member businesses that experienced growth in 2020 through quality management, inventiveness, old fashioned hard work and courage. Companies can be recognized for employment growth, revenue growth, or a combination.
Download a nomination form today. Deadline is August 19th
Ribbon Cutting: HendoLifeLine Sidewalk Mural
May 25 @ 2:30 pm – 3:30 pm
Azalea Lot Hendersonville NC
Come out to celebrate with the City of Hendersonville, the Ribbon Cutting of the completion of the connected sidewalk mural from the Good of the Hive Bee Mural on Hands On Children’s Museum to the 5th Avenue and Maple Street Murals.
Thursday, May 26, 2022
Buncombe County Organizations: Apply For Free Hotspots and Service
May 26 all-day
online w/ US Cellular

Buncombe County Organizations Can Apply For Free Hotspots and Service As Part of $13 Million Dollar Pledge From UScellular

ASAP- Call for Apps FINAL

Access to reliable internet connectivity causes a divide between Asheville area youth who have access and those who do not. Millions of children nationwide and many right here in our area rely on public Wi-Fi to study when away from school. We are thrilled to announce that UScellular is providing $13 million dollars in free mobile hotspots and service to bridge this issue knows as the “homework gap”.

We encourage nonprofits working with youth in afterschool programs to apply and use this resource to enhance the important work they are already doing. Nonprofit organizations that meet the following criteria are encouraged to apply:

– Certified 501c3 nonprofit organizations
– Operate within UScellular’s service area
– Focused on kindergarten through 12th grade
– Not a school or government entity

To apply, click here.

If you’re not currently set up as an applicant on Grants Connect, you will need to set up an applicant profile first. Once you’ve set up your profile, click the above link or refresh your page to be taken to the After School Access Project landing page. If you have any questions, please email [email protected].

Students across Western North Carolina deserve the tools and resources they need to succeed. Hotspots are stand-alone Wi-Fi networks that can connect several devices at once wirelessly and have proven to be a vital tool for youth to access the internet, study and complete homework. In 2021, UScellular donated 2,800 hotspots and service to 33 Boys & Girls Clubs across the country, a $2.6 million investment. Clubs have used them to boost their connectivity on site and loaned the devices out to youth and their families to support reliable access at home. Now more organizations have the opportunity to apply.

Nominations accepted for the Blue Ridge Business Growth + Rising Star Awards
May 26 all-day
online

The Blue Ridge Business Growth Awards (companies in business over 3 years) and Rising Star Awards (companies in business less than 3 years) will be presented to Chamber member businesses that experienced growth in 2020 through quality management, inventiveness, old fashioned hard work and courage. Companies can be recognized for employment growth, revenue growth, or a combination.
Download a nomination form today. Deadline is August 19th
Griffin Awards
May 26 @ 4:30 pm
Asheville Visitor Center

Because of the location of this year’s event at the fabulous Douglas Ellington House in Chunn’s Cove, guests will be arriving via Gray Line Trolley. There is no parking available at the event site so please come to the Asheville Visitor Center at 36 Montford Avenue. You can select from Group 1 (departing at 4:30) or Group 2 (departing at 5:15).
We expect this event to sell out fast!  Please email [email protected] to add your name to our waiting list.
Business After Hours
May 26 @ 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Southern Appalachian Brewery

Your Chance to Build Great Connections – You Don’t Want to Miss This Event!
Business After Hours is the Chamber’s premier networking event and the best chance for your to make valuable connections to build your business – all while having a great time!
With fantastic BBQ from Piggy’s and local craft beverages from Southern Appalachian Brewery, courtesy of our hosts and the chance to win great door prizes – this event is the best combination of business and fun!
State Farm Insurance and Edward Jones are both celebrating 100 years of business!
Business After Hours
May 26 @ 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Southern Appalachian Brewing
Business After Hours is the Chamber’s premier networking event and the best chance for your to make valuable connections to build your business – all while having a great time!
With fantastic food and local beverages, compliments of our host sponsor, and the chance to win great door prizes – this event is the best combination of business and fun!
We will also be celebrating 100 years of both State Farm Insurance and Edward Jones!
There is no cost to attend but registration is required.
May’s Business After Hours is hosted by:
State Farm Insurance – Judy Stroud
Edward Jones – David Maupin
Slice of Life Comedy Open Mic & Feature Comedy at Pulp Lounge
May 26 @ 8:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Pulp Lounge

Thursday May 26, 2022Slice of Life Comedy presents the return of comedy nights at The Orange Peel’s Pulp Lounge in Asheville, NC.

(Slice of Life Comedy has been producing quality, premier comedy shows at the Orange Peel for over 10 years)
Pulp Lounge is located in the Orange Peel’s basement at 103 Hilliard Ave, around the corner from the Box Office entrance

Hosted by one of Asheville’s beloved comics,Cody Hughes Featuring James Harrod:James Harrod is a stand up comedian originally from Raleigh now living in Asheville, North Carolina. In addition to hosting the Comedy Freakshow every Tuesday night at The Odditorium, he also performs around the east coast opening for comedians like Sean Patton, Yedoye Travis, Michael Palascak, Brandie Posey and many more. Out of all the comics in his scene he was voted most needy and desperate for attention.

Show Time: May 26, 8:30p (Doors at 8p— music from Buzz Radio Asheville “All Asheville Music and Comedy, All the Time”)

Ticket: $15 Tickets at theorangepeel.net and door

Craft Drink specials & snacks available
[Comics sign up to perform at door. Performing comics get in free (+free year membership). New-to-venue performers get 3-5m. Regular comics get as much time as available. Look for light, check with Cody when you get there for time and lineup]

Contact Michele Scheve at [email protected] for more info/any questions or sign up early or request a future feature comedy (paid 20m) spot.

*Pulp is one of Asheville’s finest craft cocktail lounges, located underneath The Orange Peel. This self acclaimed Bourbon bar has 284 different fine bourbon/whiskey selections, which we’re almost sure it’s the most in the entire state. Bourbon connoisseurs from thousands of miles can’t believe their eyes, but don’t worry, The Pulp has a little bit of everything.

Friday, May 27, 2022
Buncombe County Organizations: Apply For Free Hotspots and Service
May 27 all-day
online w/ US Cellular

Buncombe County Organizations Can Apply For Free Hotspots and Service As Part of $13 Million Dollar Pledge From UScellular

ASAP- Call for Apps FINAL

Access to reliable internet connectivity causes a divide between Asheville area youth who have access and those who do not. Millions of children nationwide and many right here in our area rely on public Wi-Fi to study when away from school. We are thrilled to announce that UScellular is providing $13 million dollars in free mobile hotspots and service to bridge this issue knows as the “homework gap”.

We encourage nonprofits working with youth in afterschool programs to apply and use this resource to enhance the important work they are already doing. Nonprofit organizations that meet the following criteria are encouraged to apply:

– Certified 501c3 nonprofit organizations
– Operate within UScellular’s service area
– Focused on kindergarten through 12th grade
– Not a school or government entity

To apply, click here.

If you’re not currently set up as an applicant on Grants Connect, you will need to set up an applicant profile first. Once you’ve set up your profile, click the above link or refresh your page to be taken to the After School Access Project landing page. If you have any questions, please email [email protected].

Students across Western North Carolina deserve the tools and resources they need to succeed. Hotspots are stand-alone Wi-Fi networks that can connect several devices at once wirelessly and have proven to be a vital tool for youth to access the internet, study and complete homework. In 2021, UScellular donated 2,800 hotspots and service to 33 Boys & Girls Clubs across the country, a $2.6 million investment. Clubs have used them to boost their connectivity on site and loaned the devices out to youth and their families to support reliable access at home. Now more organizations have the opportunity to apply.

GRINDfest 2022
May 27 @ 9:00 am
Black Wall Street AVL

Grindfest is BACK!

GrindFest is a free, 4-day festival that celebrates Black Business and entrepreneurship.

Grindfest is BACK! It is a free, 4-day event that celebrates the success of Black entrepreneurs + business owners in Asheville. A block-party style event will take place on 8 Rivers Arts Place! This includes a weekend full of music, games, live performance, food, local vendors + learning, employment and partnership opportunities. The goal of the festival is to highlight the progress made by people of color while also connecting folks in the community. A long weekend of fun and excitement

Over 30 sponsors will join together to celebrate this amazingly diverse and entertaining event. This year’s GRINDfest will showcase: ● World-renowned Slutty Vegan (Black, woman-owned vegan food truck recently featured in Essence Magazine) ● Curated Beer Garden by Highland Brewing ● Opportunity Tent featuring incentives, career development programs, grants, scholarships, and funding resources for businesses ● Food Trucks ● DJ Battle ● Poetry Slam ● Drag Show ● Outdoor Games ● Greater Asheville Cookoff (wings, chili, and BBQ categories); card games, and so much more!

The goal of the festival is to highlight the progress made by people of color while also connecting folks in the community. We will see you there! Let’s make HISTORY together!

GRINDfest Kickoff! Ribbon Cutting + Open Houses
May 27 @ 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Black Wall Street AVL

Join the Chamber in kicking off GRINDfest 2022 hosted by Black Wall Street AVL!

BLACK WALL STREET AVL, a North Carolina based non-profit organization, is pleased to announce the 2nd Annual GRINDfest  – a celebration of local Black business and entrepreneurship.  Black Wall Street starts, grows and expands businesses, owners and networks to Honor History and Build Wealth together.

 

GRINDfest is a free, 4-day festival that celebrates Black Business and entrepreneurship. A block-party style event will take place on 8 River Arts Place! This includes a weekend full of music, games, live performance, food, local vendors + learning, employment and partnership opportunities. The goal of the festival is to highlight the progress made by people of color while also connecting folks in the community. A long weekend of fun and excitement.

 

The ribbon cutting/kickoff will feature Brian Hamilton, the founder of Brian Hamilton Foundation and its program, Inmates to Entrepreneurs. Come enjoy drinks, snacks and help kickoff this year’s festival.

 

 

FESTIVAL DATES: MAY 27-30, 2022

 

Parking Instructions: Parking is located behind, in front of and across the street from the Black Wall Street AVL Building at 8 River Arts Place.

Saturday, May 28, 2022
GRINDfest 2022
May 28 @ 9:00 am
Black Wall Street AVL

Grindfest is BACK!

GrindFest is a free, 4-day festival that celebrates Black Business and entrepreneurship.

Grindfest is BACK! It is a free, 4-day event that celebrates the success of Black entrepreneurs + business owners in Asheville. A block-party style event will take place on 8 Rivers Arts Place! This includes a weekend full of music, games, live performance, food, local vendors + learning, employment and partnership opportunities. The goal of the festival is to highlight the progress made by people of color while also connecting folks in the community. A long weekend of fun and excitement

Over 30 sponsors will join together to celebrate this amazingly diverse and entertaining event. This year’s GRINDfest will showcase: ● World-renowned Slutty Vegan (Black, woman-owned vegan food truck recently featured in Essence Magazine) ● Curated Beer Garden by Highland Brewing ● Opportunity Tent featuring incentives, career development programs, grants, scholarships, and funding resources for businesses ● Food Trucks ● DJ Battle ● Poetry Slam ● Drag Show ● Outdoor Games ● Greater Asheville Cookoff (wings, chili, and BBQ categories); card games, and so much more!

The goal of the festival is to highlight the progress made by people of color while also connecting folks in the community. We will see you there! Let’s make HISTORY together!

Black Business Nights with The Asheville Tourists
May 28 @ 6:00 pm
McCormick Field

 The Asheville Tourists in conjunction with the Western NC Black Business Expo are proud to announce Black Business Nights Presented by UScellular.

During five designated nights during the 2022 season five local Black-owned Businesses will be able to showcase their products or professional services on the concourse during Asheville Tourists Games. The first featured game is this Saturday, May 28. The remaining four games are scheduled for June 15, June 29, July 26, and August 12.

This Saturday’s game at McCormick Field will feature the following local Black-owned Businesses: HOTWORX, The Plug Chiropractic, Makeba Loving Hands, Rita Lee & Associates, and Upstate Essential Solutions, LLC.

The initiative is part of Minor League Baseballs “The Nine” outreach platform. Prior to the 2022 season Minor League Baseball launched “The Nine,” a new, Black-community focused outreach platform specifically designed to honor and celebrate the historic impact numerous Black baseball pioneers made on the sport, provide new opportunities for youth baseball and softball participation, further diversify the business of baseball, and embrace millions of passionate fans throughout MiLB’s 120 communities nationwide.

It is named for the number Jackie Robinson wore during his only season playing in MiLB with the Triple-A Montreal Royals in 1946

The Western NC Black Business Expo is a creation of the Western NC Minority Business Association. The WNCMBA is a non-profit organization created to advocate and promote the development of minority-owned businesses in Western North Carolina through networking events, workshops, and annual business expos.

Tickets for this Saturday’s game are on sale at TouristsTickets.com and will feature the ZOOperstars entertainment.

Sunday, May 29, 2022
Buncombe County Organizations: Apply For Free Hotspots and Service
May 29 all-day
online w/ US Cellular

Buncombe County Organizations Can Apply For Free Hotspots and Service As Part of $13 Million Dollar Pledge From UScellular

ASAP- Call for Apps FINAL

Access to reliable internet connectivity causes a divide between Asheville area youth who have access and those who do not. Millions of children nationwide and many right here in our area rely on public Wi-Fi to study when away from school. We are thrilled to announce that UScellular is providing $13 million dollars in free mobile hotspots and service to bridge this issue knows as the “homework gap”.

We encourage nonprofits working with youth in afterschool programs to apply and use this resource to enhance the important work they are already doing. Nonprofit organizations that meet the following criteria are encouraged to apply:

– Certified 501c3 nonprofit organizations
– Operate within UScellular’s service area
– Focused on kindergarten through 12th grade
– Not a school or government entity

To apply, click here.

If you’re not currently set up as an applicant on Grants Connect, you will need to set up an applicant profile first. Once you’ve set up your profile, click the above link or refresh your page to be taken to the After School Access Project landing page. If you have any questions, please email [email protected].

Students across Western North Carolina deserve the tools and resources they need to succeed. Hotspots are stand-alone Wi-Fi networks that can connect several devices at once wirelessly and have proven to be a vital tool for youth to access the internet, study and complete homework. In 2021, UScellular donated 2,800 hotspots and service to 33 Boys & Girls Clubs across the country, a $2.6 million investment. Clubs have used them to boost their connectivity on site and loaned the devices out to youth and their families to support reliable access at home. Now more organizations have the opportunity to apply.

GRINDfest 2022
May 29 @ 9:00 am
Black Wall Street AVL

Grindfest is BACK!

GrindFest is a free, 4-day festival that celebrates Black Business and entrepreneurship.

Grindfest is BACK! It is a free, 4-day event that celebrates the success of Black entrepreneurs + business owners in Asheville. A block-party style event will take place on 8 Rivers Arts Place! This includes a weekend full of music, games, live performance, food, local vendors + learning, employment and partnership opportunities. The goal of the festival is to highlight the progress made by people of color while also connecting folks in the community. A long weekend of fun and excitement

Over 30 sponsors will join together to celebrate this amazingly diverse and entertaining event. This year’s GRINDfest will showcase: ● World-renowned Slutty Vegan (Black, woman-owned vegan food truck recently featured in Essence Magazine) ● Curated Beer Garden by Highland Brewing ● Opportunity Tent featuring incentives, career development programs, grants, scholarships, and funding resources for businesses ● Food Trucks ● DJ Battle ● Poetry Slam ● Drag Show ● Outdoor Games ● Greater Asheville Cookoff (wings, chili, and BBQ categories); card games, and so much more!

The goal of the festival is to highlight the progress made by people of color while also connecting folks in the community. We will see you there! Let’s make HISTORY together!

Monday, May 30, 2022
GRINDfest 2022
May 30 @ 9:00 am
Black Wall Street AVL

Grindfest is BACK!

GrindFest is a free, 4-day festival that celebrates Black Business and entrepreneurship.

Grindfest is BACK! It is a free, 4-day event that celebrates the success of Black entrepreneurs + business owners in Asheville. A block-party style event will take place on 8 Rivers Arts Place! This includes a weekend full of music, games, live performance, food, local vendors + learning, employment and partnership opportunities. The goal of the festival is to highlight the progress made by people of color while also connecting folks in the community. A long weekend of fun and excitement

Over 30 sponsors will join together to celebrate this amazingly diverse and entertaining event. This year’s GRINDfest will showcase: ● World-renowned Slutty Vegan (Black, woman-owned vegan food truck recently featured in Essence Magazine) ● Curated Beer Garden by Highland Brewing ● Opportunity Tent featuring incentives, career development programs, grants, scholarships, and funding resources for businesses ● Food Trucks ● DJ Battle ● Poetry Slam ● Drag Show ● Outdoor Games ● Greater Asheville Cookoff (wings, chili, and BBQ categories); card games, and so much more!

The goal of the festival is to highlight the progress made by people of color while also connecting folks in the community. We will see you there! Let’s make HISTORY together!