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, April 27, 2024
World Tai Chi Day + Qigong Day
Apr 27 @ 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Carrier Park

World Tai Chi Day & Qigong Day!

ALL are welcome at this FREE event that is open to the public on April 27th. You’ll meet up with others at the Carrier Park pavilion. Classes will be held from 10am – 3pm. This event is to help introduce new people to the various forms of Tai Chi, or Taiji, practice. Learn why the ancient form of Tai Chi offers benefits for everyone- no experience necessary.

Sunday, April 28, 2024
ASAP: How Does Western North Carolina Shop for Food SURVEY
Apr 28 all-day
online

ASAP (Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project) has released a survey to learn more about how people in Western North Carolina shop for food and why they choose the food they do. The survey, part of a three-year project by ASAP’s Local Food Research Center, is for any resident of Western North Carolina over the age of 18, no matter where or how they shop for food. It can be completed online at surveymonkey.com/r/WNCFoodASAP or over the phone by calling ASAP at 828-236-1282. It should take approximately 8 to 12 minutes to complete and will be open through Oct. 31, 2024. Respondents are encouraged to share the survey widely with families, friends, and co-workers.

 

“By completing this survey, you are helping local farmers understand and connect with consumers,” said Amy Marion, ASAP Associate Director and lead researcher. “The challenges of our food system are constantly evolving. Improving it requires active participation from all community members. With this research we can better understand consumer values and the barriers they face, and help farmers and food producers improve communications with their customers and their communities.”

 

The survey is part of a three-year research project, “Connections in Direct Markets: Assessing the feedback loop between consumer values and farmers’ marketing strategies,” which will examine and improve communication and alignment between farmers and consumers in Western North Carolina. The research phase will also employ consumer focus groups, farmer interviews and case studies, and more targeted surveying. The broad consumer survey provides an update to the last consumer survey conducted by the Local Food Research Center in 2014. Results from the current research project will be shared in 2025.

 

ASAP founded the Local Food Research Center in 2011 to study the economic, environmental, and social impacts of localizing food systems. From its inception, ASAP’s programs and services have been grounded in research and evaluation, adjusting based on a strong feedback loop and observation of current conditions in the food system.

 

This project is supported in part by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, U.S. Department of Agriculture, under award number 2022-38640-37488 through the Southern Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program under subaward number LS23-382. USDA is an equal opportunity employer and service provider.

Celebrate National Small Business Week: Virtual Summit
Apr 28 all-day
Asheville Area + online

 

The National Small Business Week 2-day virtual summit is happening Tuesday, April 30 – Wednesday, May 1, 2024.

This year’s event will include educational presentations by experts, exhibit booths, free business resources, multiple peer-to-peer networking rooms, and expert business advice from SCORE mentors.

The event is free to attend for both established and aspiring business owners. However, you must first register to gain entry.

See the schedule of events below, or download a PDF version of the schedule.

Tuesday, April 30

Time (ET) Session Cosponsored by
10:00 a.m. Virtual Doors Open! Explore the Environment
11:00 a.m. – 11:30 p.m. Accelerate Business Growth with the Help of AI Visa
11:45 p.m. – 12:45 p.m. Securing Your Small Business in a Work-From-Anywhere World T-Mobile
1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Learn About the No-Cost SBA T.H.R.I.V.E Educational Program SBA
2:15 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Unlock AI’s Potential for Your Small Business Grow with Google
2:40 p.m. – 3:40 p.m. Building a Foundation for Online Marketing Success: Review, Plan, and Execute Constant Contact
3:55 p.m. – 4:55 p.m. Leveraging E-Commerce to Scale Your Business Amazon
5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. How to Start a Food Truck Business: A Step-by-Step Guide SCORE

Wednesday, May 1

Time (ET) Session Cosponsored by
10:00 a.m. Virtual Doors Open! Explore the Environment
11:00 a.m. – 11:40 p.m. 8 Practical Skills to Run a Successful Business Visa
11:45 p.m. – 12:45 p.m. Small Business Strategies for Collaboration and Productivity T-Mobile
12:50 p.m. – 1:50 p.m. Navigating Your Cash Flow Chase for Business
1:55 p.m. – 2:55 p.m. How to Turn Your Side Hustle into a Business & Securing Your First Loan NerdWallet
3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Future of Commerce 2024 Square
4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. My SBA SBA
5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. How to Write a Grant Proposal for Your Business SCORE

Networking rooms

Between sessions, make sure you check out our other rooms:

  • Exhibit hall: Chat with our cosponsors and pick up free resources for your business.
  • Mentoring hall: Get answers to your business questions from one of our experienced mentors.
  • Networking lounge: Make new connections with fellow aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners.
  • Inspiration hall: View small business success stories and get inspired to achieve greatness.

 

  • At the Asheville Chamber, we’ll be celebrating Small Businesses during the week of May 13 – May 17 with events like the Sky High Growth AwardsSmart Series and a Surprise Patrol of local goodies to small businesses. We’ll also be celebrating small businesses throughout the month of May on social media and here in our newsletter!
    Support the Downtown Business Improvement District!
    The proposed Business Improvement District (BID) in Downtown Asheville aims to enhance the community’s vitality and functionality. With a focus on safe and clean services, such as a hospitality and safety ambassador program, the BID will address pressing issues while fostering a vibrant downtown environment.

    Learn more about the BID and sign the petition at downtownashevillebid.com.

    Anyone can sign the bid whether you work, live or simply enjoy Downtown Asheville. By coming together to advocate for the BID’s establishment, we can ensure Downtown Asheville continues to thrive as a dynamic economic and cultural hub!

Sponsor a Tree for Arbor Day
Apr 28 all-day
online w/   Asheville GreenWorks

Individuals, groups, and businesses are invited to honor a loved one or show your commitment to environmental stewardship by sponsoring a tree for the Sand Hill community orchard. This April, join others from the community in celebrating Arbor Day by helping GreenWorks plant additional native fruit trees in the space. Each year, the community orchard provides fresh fruit for local food pantries, and access to learning and volunteering opportunities.

 

If your family or business is interested in sponsoring a tree for our April 26th Arbor Day event, please call us at 828-254-1776 to learn more.

Monday, April 29, 2024
ASAP: How Does Western North Carolina Shop for Food SURVEY
Apr 29 all-day
online

ASAP (Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project) has released a survey to learn more about how people in Western North Carolina shop for food and why they choose the food they do. The survey, part of a three-year project by ASAP’s Local Food Research Center, is for any resident of Western North Carolina over the age of 18, no matter where or how they shop for food. It can be completed online at surveymonkey.com/r/WNCFoodASAP or over the phone by calling ASAP at 828-236-1282. It should take approximately 8 to 12 minutes to complete and will be open through Oct. 31, 2024. Respondents are encouraged to share the survey widely with families, friends, and co-workers.

 

“By completing this survey, you are helping local farmers understand and connect with consumers,” said Amy Marion, ASAP Associate Director and lead researcher. “The challenges of our food system are constantly evolving. Improving it requires active participation from all community members. With this research we can better understand consumer values and the barriers they face, and help farmers and food producers improve communications with their customers and their communities.”

 

The survey is part of a three-year research project, “Connections in Direct Markets: Assessing the feedback loop between consumer values and farmers’ marketing strategies,” which will examine and improve communication and alignment between farmers and consumers in Western North Carolina. The research phase will also employ consumer focus groups, farmer interviews and case studies, and more targeted surveying. The broad consumer survey provides an update to the last consumer survey conducted by the Local Food Research Center in 2014. Results from the current research project will be shared in 2025.

 

ASAP founded the Local Food Research Center in 2011 to study the economic, environmental, and social impacts of localizing food systems. From its inception, ASAP’s programs and services have been grounded in research and evaluation, adjusting based on a strong feedback loop and observation of current conditions in the food system.

 

This project is supported in part by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, U.S. Department of Agriculture, under award number 2022-38640-37488 through the Southern Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program under subaward number LS23-382. USDA is an equal opportunity employer and service provider.

Celebrate National Small Business Week: Virtual Summit
Apr 29 all-day
Asheville Area + online

 

The National Small Business Week 2-day virtual summit is happening Tuesday, April 30 – Wednesday, May 1, 2024.

This year’s event will include educational presentations by experts, exhibit booths, free business resources, multiple peer-to-peer networking rooms, and expert business advice from SCORE mentors.

The event is free to attend for both established and aspiring business owners. However, you must first register to gain entry.

See the schedule of events below, or download a PDF version of the schedule.

Tuesday, April 30

Time (ET) Session Cosponsored by
10:00 a.m. Virtual Doors Open! Explore the Environment
11:00 a.m. – 11:30 p.m. Accelerate Business Growth with the Help of AI Visa
11:45 p.m. – 12:45 p.m. Securing Your Small Business in a Work-From-Anywhere World T-Mobile
1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Learn About the No-Cost SBA T.H.R.I.V.E Educational Program SBA
2:15 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Unlock AI’s Potential for Your Small Business Grow with Google
2:40 p.m. – 3:40 p.m. Building a Foundation for Online Marketing Success: Review, Plan, and Execute Constant Contact
3:55 p.m. – 4:55 p.m. Leveraging E-Commerce to Scale Your Business Amazon
5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. How to Start a Food Truck Business: A Step-by-Step Guide SCORE

Wednesday, May 1

Time (ET) Session Cosponsored by
10:00 a.m. Virtual Doors Open! Explore the Environment
11:00 a.m. – 11:40 p.m. 8 Practical Skills to Run a Successful Business Visa
11:45 p.m. – 12:45 p.m. Small Business Strategies for Collaboration and Productivity T-Mobile
12:50 p.m. – 1:50 p.m. Navigating Your Cash Flow Chase for Business
1:55 p.m. – 2:55 p.m. How to Turn Your Side Hustle into a Business & Securing Your First Loan NerdWallet
3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Future of Commerce 2024 Square
4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. My SBA SBA
5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. How to Write a Grant Proposal for Your Business SCORE

Networking rooms

Between sessions, make sure you check out our other rooms:

  • Exhibit hall: Chat with our cosponsors and pick up free resources for your business.
  • Mentoring hall: Get answers to your business questions from one of our experienced mentors.
  • Networking lounge: Make new connections with fellow aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners.
  • Inspiration hall: View small business success stories and get inspired to achieve greatness.

 

  • At the Asheville Chamber, we’ll be celebrating Small Businesses during the week of May 13 – May 17 with events like the Sky High Growth AwardsSmart Series and a Surprise Patrol of local goodies to small businesses. We’ll also be celebrating small businesses throughout the month of May on social media and here in our newsletter!
    Support the Downtown Business Improvement District!
    The proposed Business Improvement District (BID) in Downtown Asheville aims to enhance the community’s vitality and functionality. With a focus on safe and clean services, such as a hospitality and safety ambassador program, the BID will address pressing issues while fostering a vibrant downtown environment.

    Learn more about the BID and sign the petition at downtownashevillebid.com.

    Anyone can sign the bid whether you work, live or simply enjoy Downtown Asheville. By coming together to advocate for the BID’s establishment, we can ensure Downtown Asheville continues to thrive as a dynamic economic and cultural hub!

Tuesday, April 30, 2024
Celebrate National Small Business Week: Virtual Summit
Apr 30 all-day
Asheville Area + online

 

The National Small Business Week 2-day virtual summit is happening Tuesday, April 30 – Wednesday, May 1, 2024.

This year’s event will include educational presentations by experts, exhibit booths, free business resources, multiple peer-to-peer networking rooms, and expert business advice from SCORE mentors.

The event is free to attend for both established and aspiring business owners. However, you must first register to gain entry.

See the schedule of events below, or download a PDF version of the schedule.

Tuesday, April 30

Time (ET) Session Cosponsored by
10:00 a.m. Virtual Doors Open! Explore the Environment
11:00 a.m. – 11:30 p.m. Accelerate Business Growth with the Help of AI Visa
11:45 p.m. – 12:45 p.m. Securing Your Small Business in a Work-From-Anywhere World T-Mobile
1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Learn About the No-Cost SBA T.H.R.I.V.E Educational Program SBA
2:15 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Unlock AI’s Potential for Your Small Business Grow with Google
2:40 p.m. – 3:40 p.m. Building a Foundation for Online Marketing Success: Review, Plan, and Execute Constant Contact
3:55 p.m. – 4:55 p.m. Leveraging E-Commerce to Scale Your Business Amazon
5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. How to Start a Food Truck Business: A Step-by-Step Guide SCORE

Wednesday, May 1

Time (ET) Session Cosponsored by
10:00 a.m. Virtual Doors Open! Explore the Environment
11:00 a.m. – 11:40 p.m. 8 Practical Skills to Run a Successful Business Visa
11:45 p.m. – 12:45 p.m. Small Business Strategies for Collaboration and Productivity T-Mobile
12:50 p.m. – 1:50 p.m. Navigating Your Cash Flow Chase for Business
1:55 p.m. – 2:55 p.m. How to Turn Your Side Hustle into a Business & Securing Your First Loan NerdWallet
3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Future of Commerce 2024 Square
4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. My SBA SBA
5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. How to Write a Grant Proposal for Your Business SCORE

Networking rooms

Between sessions, make sure you check out our other rooms:

  • Exhibit hall: Chat with our cosponsors and pick up free resources for your business.
  • Mentoring hall: Get answers to your business questions from one of our experienced mentors.
  • Networking lounge: Make new connections with fellow aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners.
  • Inspiration hall: View small business success stories and get inspired to achieve greatness.

 

  • At the Asheville Chamber, we’ll be celebrating Small Businesses during the week of May 13 – May 17 with events like the Sky High Growth AwardsSmart Series and a Surprise Patrol of local goodies to small businesses. We’ll also be celebrating small businesses throughout the month of May on social media and here in our newsletter!
    Support the Downtown Business Improvement District!
    The proposed Business Improvement District (BID) in Downtown Asheville aims to enhance the community’s vitality and functionality. With a focus on safe and clean services, such as a hospitality and safety ambassador program, the BID will address pressing issues while fostering a vibrant downtown environment.

    Learn more about the BID and sign the petition at downtownashevillebid.com.

    Anyone can sign the bid whether you work, live or simply enjoy Downtown Asheville. By coming together to advocate for the BID’s establishment, we can ensure Downtown Asheville continues to thrive as a dynamic economic and cultural hub!

Sponsor a Tree for Arbor Day
Apr 30 all-day
online w/   Asheville GreenWorks

Individuals, groups, and businesses are invited to honor a loved one or show your commitment to environmental stewardship by sponsoring a tree for the Sand Hill community orchard. This April, join others from the community in celebrating Arbor Day by helping GreenWorks plant additional native fruit trees in the space. Each year, the community orchard provides fresh fruit for local food pantries, and access to learning and volunteering opportunities.

 

If your family or business is interested in sponsoring a tree for our April 26th Arbor Day event, please call us at 828-254-1776 to learn more.

Adult Mental Health Series: Communication 101
Apr 30 @ 10:00 am
Enka-Candler Library

Want to learn more about managing depression and nervous energy? Got questions about medications or  emotional implications of chronic illness? Join Vaya Health’s Geriatric and Adult Mental Health Specialty team for a series of classes at the Enka-Candler and Leicester Libraries

Classes are free to attend, but registration is required. Please visit the Vaya Health calendar to register. Everyone is welcome.

 

Communication is the string that ties us all together. If that string isn’t strong enough or is broken, relationships tend to unravel. Effective communication cultivates strong relationships and supports one’s voice being heard. This curriculum is designed to look at ways to neutralize barriers and methods to enhance clear, concise, and deliberate exchanges.

Policy On Tap
Apr 30 @ 3:30 pm – 5:00 pm
White Labs Brewing Co.
MHO’s own Adeline Wolfe will be featured on the speaker panel at the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce’s Policy On Tap event. Join us for “Getting to YES on Housing” on Tuesday, April 30 from 3:30-5 pm at White Labs Brewing Co. Learn more or register now by clicking here. Policy on Tap is the Chamber’s quarterly discussion series highlighting topics that matter to our business community with insights shared by key leaders and experts.
Empower Hour
Apr 30 @ 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Stuller Power Solutions

Celebrate the incredible women in your life by joining us for a distinctive and casual networking experience. Athena of Henderson County proudly presents this exclusive opportunity crafted to inspire and foster connections among women. There’s no entrance fee – simply bring your business cards and relish the chance to expand your network!

This quarter, let’s gather at Stuller Power Solutions, a local electric generator and Generac Authorized Dealer. Cheryl Stuller, a valued member of our EMPOWER Her Committee, and the Presenting Sponsor of our Empower Hours, will be hosting us. Join us for a delightful hour of connection, delicious food, and a celebration of our collective achievements!

Wednesday, May 1, 2024
ASAP: How Does Western North Carolina Shop for Food SURVEY
May 1 all-day
online

ASAP (Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project) has released a survey to learn more about how people in Western North Carolina shop for food and why they choose the food they do. The survey, part of a three-year project by ASAP’s Local Food Research Center, is for any resident of Western North Carolina over the age of 18, no matter where or how they shop for food. It can be completed online at surveymonkey.com/r/WNCFoodASAP or over the phone by calling ASAP at 828-236-1282. It should take approximately 8 to 12 minutes to complete and will be open through Oct. 31, 2024. Respondents are encouraged to share the survey widely with families, friends, and co-workers.

 

“By completing this survey, you are helping local farmers understand and connect with consumers,” said Amy Marion, ASAP Associate Director and lead researcher. “The challenges of our food system are constantly evolving. Improving it requires active participation from all community members. With this research we can better understand consumer values and the barriers they face, and help farmers and food producers improve communications with their customers and their communities.”

 

The survey is part of a three-year research project, “Connections in Direct Markets: Assessing the feedback loop between consumer values and farmers’ marketing strategies,” which will examine and improve communication and alignment between farmers and consumers in Western North Carolina. The research phase will also employ consumer focus groups, farmer interviews and case studies, and more targeted surveying. The broad consumer survey provides an update to the last consumer survey conducted by the Local Food Research Center in 2014. Results from the current research project will be shared in 2025.

 

ASAP founded the Local Food Research Center in 2011 to study the economic, environmental, and social impacts of localizing food systems. From its inception, ASAP’s programs and services have been grounded in research and evaluation, adjusting based on a strong feedback loop and observation of current conditions in the food system.

 

This project is supported in part by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, U.S. Department of Agriculture, under award number 2022-38640-37488 through the Southern Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program under subaward number LS23-382. USDA is an equal opportunity employer and service provider.

Celebrate National Small Business Week: Virtual Summit
May 1 all-day
Asheville Area + online

 

The National Small Business Week 2-day virtual summit is happening Tuesday, April 30 – Wednesday, May 1, 2024.

This year’s event will include educational presentations by experts, exhibit booths, free business resources, multiple peer-to-peer networking rooms, and expert business advice from SCORE mentors.

The event is free to attend for both established and aspiring business owners. However, you must first register to gain entry.

See the schedule of events below, or download a PDF version of the schedule.

Tuesday, April 30

Time (ET) Session Cosponsored by
10:00 a.m. Virtual Doors Open! Explore the Environment
11:00 a.m. – 11:30 p.m. Accelerate Business Growth with the Help of AI Visa
11:45 p.m. – 12:45 p.m. Securing Your Small Business in a Work-From-Anywhere World T-Mobile
1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Learn About the No-Cost SBA T.H.R.I.V.E Educational Program SBA
2:15 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Unlock AI’s Potential for Your Small Business Grow with Google
2:40 p.m. – 3:40 p.m. Building a Foundation for Online Marketing Success: Review, Plan, and Execute Constant Contact
3:55 p.m. – 4:55 p.m. Leveraging E-Commerce to Scale Your Business Amazon
5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. How to Start a Food Truck Business: A Step-by-Step Guide SCORE

Wednesday, May 1

Time (ET) Session Cosponsored by
10:00 a.m. Virtual Doors Open! Explore the Environment
11:00 a.m. – 11:40 p.m. 8 Practical Skills to Run a Successful Business Visa
11:45 p.m. – 12:45 p.m. Small Business Strategies for Collaboration and Productivity T-Mobile
12:50 p.m. – 1:50 p.m. Navigating Your Cash Flow Chase for Business
1:55 p.m. – 2:55 p.m. How to Turn Your Side Hustle into a Business & Securing Your First Loan NerdWallet
3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Future of Commerce 2024 Square
4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. My SBA SBA
5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. How to Write a Grant Proposal for Your Business SCORE

Networking rooms

Between sessions, make sure you check out our other rooms:

  • Exhibit hall: Chat with our cosponsors and pick up free resources for your business.
  • Mentoring hall: Get answers to your business questions from one of our experienced mentors.
  • Networking lounge: Make new connections with fellow aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners.
  • Inspiration hall: View small business success stories and get inspired to achieve greatness.

 

  • At the Asheville Chamber, we’ll be celebrating Small Businesses during the week of May 13 – May 17 with events like the Sky High Growth AwardsSmart Series and a Surprise Patrol of local goodies to small businesses. We’ll also be celebrating small businesses throughout the month of May on social media and here in our newsletter!
    Support the Downtown Business Improvement District!
    The proposed Business Improvement District (BID) in Downtown Asheville aims to enhance the community’s vitality and functionality. With a focus on safe and clean services, such as a hospitality and safety ambassador program, the BID will address pressing issues while fostering a vibrant downtown environment.

    Learn more about the BID and sign the petition at downtownashevillebid.com.

    Anyone can sign the bid whether you work, live or simply enjoy Downtown Asheville. By coming together to advocate for the BID’s establishment, we can ensure Downtown Asheville continues to thrive as a dynamic economic and cultural hub!

National Small Business Week 2-DAY Virtual Summit
May 1 @ 11:00 am – 6:00 pm
online

As part of the National Small Business Week (NSBW), the U.S. Small Business Administration and SCORE will cohost the NSBW Virtual Summit that includes a variety of educational webinars, exhibit booths, free business resources, multiple peer-to-peer networking rooms and expert business advice from SCORE mentors. 

 

The 2-day event is free to attend, but registration is required to access all the value the virtual event has to offer:

  • Action-driven content that can be applied to your business immediately.

  • Expert business advice to help you navigate your business journey.

  • Downloadable business resources to collect for future use.

  • Networking opportunities to connect with business owners from across the country.

Thursday, May 2, 2024
Celebrate National Small Business Week: Virtual Summit
May 2 all-day
Asheville Area + online

 

The National Small Business Week 2-day virtual summit is happening Tuesday, April 30 – Wednesday, May 1, 2024.

This year’s event will include educational presentations by experts, exhibit booths, free business resources, multiple peer-to-peer networking rooms, and expert business advice from SCORE mentors.

The event is free to attend for both established and aspiring business owners. However, you must first register to gain entry.

See the schedule of events below, or download a PDF version of the schedule.

Tuesday, April 30

Time (ET) Session Cosponsored by
10:00 a.m. Virtual Doors Open! Explore the Environment
11:00 a.m. – 11:30 p.m. Accelerate Business Growth with the Help of AI Visa
11:45 p.m. – 12:45 p.m. Securing Your Small Business in a Work-From-Anywhere World T-Mobile
1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Learn About the No-Cost SBA T.H.R.I.V.E Educational Program SBA
2:15 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Unlock AI’s Potential for Your Small Business Grow with Google
2:40 p.m. – 3:40 p.m. Building a Foundation for Online Marketing Success: Review, Plan, and Execute Constant Contact
3:55 p.m. – 4:55 p.m. Leveraging E-Commerce to Scale Your Business Amazon
5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. How to Start a Food Truck Business: A Step-by-Step Guide SCORE

Wednesday, May 1

Time (ET) Session Cosponsored by
10:00 a.m. Virtual Doors Open! Explore the Environment
11:00 a.m. – 11:40 p.m. 8 Practical Skills to Run a Successful Business Visa
11:45 p.m. – 12:45 p.m. Small Business Strategies for Collaboration and Productivity T-Mobile
12:50 p.m. – 1:50 p.m. Navigating Your Cash Flow Chase for Business
1:55 p.m. – 2:55 p.m. How to Turn Your Side Hustle into a Business & Securing Your First Loan NerdWallet
3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Future of Commerce 2024 Square
4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. My SBA SBA
5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. How to Write a Grant Proposal for Your Business SCORE

Networking rooms

Between sessions, make sure you check out our other rooms:

  • Exhibit hall: Chat with our cosponsors and pick up free resources for your business.
  • Mentoring hall: Get answers to your business questions from one of our experienced mentors.
  • Networking lounge: Make new connections with fellow aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners.
  • Inspiration hall: View small business success stories and get inspired to achieve greatness.

 

  • At the Asheville Chamber, we’ll be celebrating Small Businesses during the week of May 13 – May 17 with events like the Sky High Growth AwardsSmart Series and a Surprise Patrol of local goodies to small businesses. We’ll also be celebrating small businesses throughout the month of May on social media and here in our newsletter!
    Support the Downtown Business Improvement District!
    The proposed Business Improvement District (BID) in Downtown Asheville aims to enhance the community’s vitality and functionality. With a focus on safe and clean services, such as a hospitality and safety ambassador program, the BID will address pressing issues while fostering a vibrant downtown environment.

    Learn more about the BID and sign the petition at downtownashevillebid.com.

    Anyone can sign the bid whether you work, live or simply enjoy Downtown Asheville. By coming together to advocate for the BID’s establishment, we can ensure Downtown Asheville continues to thrive as a dynamic economic and cultural hub!

Sponsor a Tree for Arbor Day
May 2 all-day
online w/   Asheville GreenWorks

Individuals, groups, and businesses are invited to honor a loved one or show your commitment to environmental stewardship by sponsoring a tree for the Sand Hill community orchard. This April, join others from the community in celebrating Arbor Day by helping GreenWorks plant additional native fruit trees in the space. Each year, the community orchard provides fresh fruit for local food pantries, and access to learning and volunteering opportunities.

 

If your family or business is interested in sponsoring a tree for our April 26th Arbor Day event, please call us at 828-254-1776 to learn more.

8 Week Series A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls
May 2 @ 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Pack Memorial Library

A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls

Many older adults experience concerns about falling and restrict their activities. A Matter of Balance is an award-winning program designed to manage falls and increase activity levels.This program emphasizes practical strategies to manage falls.

You Will Learn To:
· view falls as controllable
· set goals for increasing activity
· make changes to reduce fall risks at home
· exercise to increase strength and balance

Who Should Attend?
· anyone concerned about falls
· anyone interested in improving balance, flexibility and strength
· anyone who has fallen in the past
· anyone who has restricted activities because of falling concerns

Classes are held once a week for 8 weeks for 2 hours each. Participants are expected to attend the entire series. Registration is required and will be limited.

This class will be facilitated by Heather Bauer, master trainer. The series is sponsored by the Land of Sky Area Agency on Aging.

Business After Hours
May 2 @ 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Union Transfer & Storage Co., Inc.

Come join us for Business After Hours at Union Transfer & Storage!

Union Transfer and Storage and GoMinis Portable Storage invite you to Business After Hours. As local, family-owned businesses operating in Western NC and Eastern TN for nearly 100 years, they are thrilled to host you on May 2nd.  Please join them for an evening of games, live music, food and beer from Oskar Blues Brewery. They look forward to connecting with you and hearing how we can best serve you in our community.

Feel free to bring a gift to be raffled off as door prizes towards the end of the evening. Bring your business cards for networking and a chance to win prizes!

 

Friday, May 3, 2024
ASAP: How Does Western North Carolina Shop for Food SURVEY
May 3 all-day
online

ASAP (Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project) has released a survey to learn more about how people in Western North Carolina shop for food and why they choose the food they do. The survey, part of a three-year project by ASAP’s Local Food Research Center, is for any resident of Western North Carolina over the age of 18, no matter where or how they shop for food. It can be completed online at surveymonkey.com/r/WNCFoodASAP or over the phone by calling ASAP at 828-236-1282. It should take approximately 8 to 12 minutes to complete and will be open through Oct. 31, 2024. Respondents are encouraged to share the survey widely with families, friends, and co-workers.

 

“By completing this survey, you are helping local farmers understand and connect with consumers,” said Amy Marion, ASAP Associate Director and lead researcher. “The challenges of our food system are constantly evolving. Improving it requires active participation from all community members. With this research we can better understand consumer values and the barriers they face, and help farmers and food producers improve communications with their customers and their communities.”

 

The survey is part of a three-year research project, “Connections in Direct Markets: Assessing the feedback loop between consumer values and farmers’ marketing strategies,” which will examine and improve communication and alignment between farmers and consumers in Western North Carolina. The research phase will also employ consumer focus groups, farmer interviews and case studies, and more targeted surveying. The broad consumer survey provides an update to the last consumer survey conducted by the Local Food Research Center in 2014. Results from the current research project will be shared in 2025.

 

ASAP founded the Local Food Research Center in 2011 to study the economic, environmental, and social impacts of localizing food systems. From its inception, ASAP’s programs and services have been grounded in research and evaluation, adjusting based on a strong feedback loop and observation of current conditions in the food system.

 

This project is supported in part by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, U.S. Department of Agriculture, under award number 2022-38640-37488 through the Southern Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program under subaward number LS23-382. USDA is an equal opportunity employer and service provider.

Celebrate National Small Business Week: Virtual Summit
May 3 all-day
Asheville Area + online

 

The National Small Business Week 2-day virtual summit is happening Tuesday, April 30 – Wednesday, May 1, 2024.

This year’s event will include educational presentations by experts, exhibit booths, free business resources, multiple peer-to-peer networking rooms, and expert business advice from SCORE mentors.

The event is free to attend for both established and aspiring business owners. However, you must first register to gain entry.

See the schedule of events below, or download a PDF version of the schedule.

Tuesday, April 30

Time (ET) Session Cosponsored by
10:00 a.m. Virtual Doors Open! Explore the Environment
11:00 a.m. – 11:30 p.m. Accelerate Business Growth with the Help of AI Visa
11:45 p.m. – 12:45 p.m. Securing Your Small Business in a Work-From-Anywhere World T-Mobile
1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Learn About the No-Cost SBA T.H.R.I.V.E Educational Program SBA
2:15 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Unlock AI’s Potential for Your Small Business Grow with Google
2:40 p.m. – 3:40 p.m. Building a Foundation for Online Marketing Success: Review, Plan, and Execute Constant Contact
3:55 p.m. – 4:55 p.m. Leveraging E-Commerce to Scale Your Business Amazon
5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. How to Start a Food Truck Business: A Step-by-Step Guide SCORE

Wednesday, May 1

Time (ET) Session Cosponsored by
10:00 a.m. Virtual Doors Open! Explore the Environment
11:00 a.m. – 11:40 p.m. 8 Practical Skills to Run a Successful Business Visa
11:45 p.m. – 12:45 p.m. Small Business Strategies for Collaboration and Productivity T-Mobile
12:50 p.m. – 1:50 p.m. Navigating Your Cash Flow Chase for Business
1:55 p.m. – 2:55 p.m. How to Turn Your Side Hustle into a Business & Securing Your First Loan NerdWallet
3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Future of Commerce 2024 Square
4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. My SBA SBA
5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. How to Write a Grant Proposal for Your Business SCORE

Networking rooms

Between sessions, make sure you check out our other rooms:

  • Exhibit hall: Chat with our cosponsors and pick up free resources for your business.
  • Mentoring hall: Get answers to your business questions from one of our experienced mentors.
  • Networking lounge: Make new connections with fellow aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners.
  • Inspiration hall: View small business success stories and get inspired to achieve greatness.

 

  • At the Asheville Chamber, we’ll be celebrating Small Businesses during the week of May 13 – May 17 with events like the Sky High Growth AwardsSmart Series and a Surprise Patrol of local goodies to small businesses. We’ll also be celebrating small businesses throughout the month of May on social media and here in our newsletter!
    Support the Downtown Business Improvement District!
    The proposed Business Improvement District (BID) in Downtown Asheville aims to enhance the community’s vitality and functionality. With a focus on safe and clean services, such as a hospitality and safety ambassador program, the BID will address pressing issues while fostering a vibrant downtown environment.

    Learn more about the BID and sign the petition at downtownashevillebid.com.

    Anyone can sign the bid whether you work, live or simply enjoy Downtown Asheville. By coming together to advocate for the BID’s establishment, we can ensure Downtown Asheville continues to thrive as a dynamic economic and cultural hub!

Chamber Challenge: 5k Celebrating Workplace Wellness
May 3 @ 4:00 pm
Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce

The Chamber Challenge is designed to promote community wellness through friendly competition between businesses in the Asheville area. Encourage your co-workers, family and friends to participate. Whether you walk every step or sprint to the finish, we know you’re up to the challenge!

Saturday, May 4, 2024
Celebrate National Small Business Week: Virtual Summit
May 4 all-day
Asheville Area + online

 

The National Small Business Week 2-day virtual summit is happening Tuesday, April 30 – Wednesday, May 1, 2024.

This year’s event will include educational presentations by experts, exhibit booths, free business resources, multiple peer-to-peer networking rooms, and expert business advice from SCORE mentors.

The event is free to attend for both established and aspiring business owners. However, you must first register to gain entry.

See the schedule of events below, or download a PDF version of the schedule.

Tuesday, April 30

Time (ET) Session Cosponsored by
10:00 a.m. Virtual Doors Open! Explore the Environment
11:00 a.m. – 11:30 p.m. Accelerate Business Growth with the Help of AI Visa
11:45 p.m. – 12:45 p.m. Securing Your Small Business in a Work-From-Anywhere World T-Mobile
1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Learn About the No-Cost SBA T.H.R.I.V.E Educational Program SBA
2:15 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Unlock AI’s Potential for Your Small Business Grow with Google
2:40 p.m. – 3:40 p.m. Building a Foundation for Online Marketing Success: Review, Plan, and Execute Constant Contact
3:55 p.m. – 4:55 p.m. Leveraging E-Commerce to Scale Your Business Amazon
5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. How to Start a Food Truck Business: A Step-by-Step Guide SCORE

Wednesday, May 1

Time (ET) Session Cosponsored by
10:00 a.m. Virtual Doors Open! Explore the Environment
11:00 a.m. – 11:40 p.m. 8 Practical Skills to Run a Successful Business Visa
11:45 p.m. – 12:45 p.m. Small Business Strategies for Collaboration and Productivity T-Mobile
12:50 p.m. – 1:50 p.m. Navigating Your Cash Flow Chase for Business
1:55 p.m. – 2:55 p.m. How to Turn Your Side Hustle into a Business & Securing Your First Loan NerdWallet
3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Future of Commerce 2024 Square
4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. My SBA SBA
5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. How to Write a Grant Proposal for Your Business SCORE

Networking rooms

Between sessions, make sure you check out our other rooms:

  • Exhibit hall: Chat with our cosponsors and pick up free resources for your business.
  • Mentoring hall: Get answers to your business questions from one of our experienced mentors.
  • Networking lounge: Make new connections with fellow aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners.
  • Inspiration hall: View small business success stories and get inspired to achieve greatness.

 

  • At the Asheville Chamber, we’ll be celebrating Small Businesses during the week of May 13 – May 17 with events like the Sky High Growth AwardsSmart Series and a Surprise Patrol of local goodies to small businesses. We’ll also be celebrating small businesses throughout the month of May on social media and here in our newsletter!
    Support the Downtown Business Improvement District!
    The proposed Business Improvement District (BID) in Downtown Asheville aims to enhance the community’s vitality and functionality. With a focus on safe and clean services, such as a hospitality and safety ambassador program, the BID will address pressing issues while fostering a vibrant downtown environment.

    Learn more about the BID and sign the petition at downtownashevillebid.com.

    Anyone can sign the bid whether you work, live or simply enjoy Downtown Asheville. By coming together to advocate for the BID’s establishment, we can ensure Downtown Asheville continues to thrive as a dynamic economic and cultural hub!

Sponsor a Tree for Arbor Day
May 4 all-day
online w/   Asheville GreenWorks

Individuals, groups, and businesses are invited to honor a loved one or show your commitment to environmental stewardship by sponsoring a tree for the Sand Hill community orchard. This April, join others from the community in celebrating Arbor Day by helping GreenWorks plant additional native fruit trees in the space. Each year, the community orchard provides fresh fruit for local food pantries, and access to learning and volunteering opportunities.

 

If your family or business is interested in sponsoring a tree for our April 26th Arbor Day event, please call us at 828-254-1776 to learn more.

In Time for Mother’s Day: DIY Self-Care Products
May 4 @ 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Bullington Gardens

Looking for a chance to celebrate mom and make her a unique gift?  Or are you wanting to learn a new skill?  In this fun introductory class led by Judy Peacock, you will learn to make your own herbal self-care products including an oatmeal rose honey scrub, a rose clay mask, and herbal tea blend. It’s the perfect way to spend time with mom, or make something for yourself.  Each participant will take home a honey scrub, a clay mask blend, and an herbal tranquil tea blend.

Sunday, May 5, 2024
ASAP: How Does Western North Carolina Shop for Food SURVEY
May 5 all-day
online

ASAP (Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project) has released a survey to learn more about how people in Western North Carolina shop for food and why they choose the food they do. The survey, part of a three-year project by ASAP’s Local Food Research Center, is for any resident of Western North Carolina over the age of 18, no matter where or how they shop for food. It can be completed online at surveymonkey.com/r/WNCFoodASAP or over the phone by calling ASAP at 828-236-1282. It should take approximately 8 to 12 minutes to complete and will be open through Oct. 31, 2024. Respondents are encouraged to share the survey widely with families, friends, and co-workers.

 

“By completing this survey, you are helping local farmers understand and connect with consumers,” said Amy Marion, ASAP Associate Director and lead researcher. “The challenges of our food system are constantly evolving. Improving it requires active participation from all community members. With this research we can better understand consumer values and the barriers they face, and help farmers and food producers improve communications with their customers and their communities.”

 

The survey is part of a three-year research project, “Connections in Direct Markets: Assessing the feedback loop between consumer values and farmers’ marketing strategies,” which will examine and improve communication and alignment between farmers and consumers in Western North Carolina. The research phase will also employ consumer focus groups, farmer interviews and case studies, and more targeted surveying. The broad consumer survey provides an update to the last consumer survey conducted by the Local Food Research Center in 2014. Results from the current research project will be shared in 2025.

 

ASAP founded the Local Food Research Center in 2011 to study the economic, environmental, and social impacts of localizing food systems. From its inception, ASAP’s programs and services have been grounded in research and evaluation, adjusting based on a strong feedback loop and observation of current conditions in the food system.

 

This project is supported in part by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, U.S. Department of Agriculture, under award number 2022-38640-37488 through the Southern Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program under subaward number LS23-382. USDA is an equal opportunity employer and service provider.

CMDA National Convention
May 5 all-day
Ridgecrest Conference Center

This convention provides great opportunities for you to transform as you fellowship with Christian healthcare professionals, learn about current health and social issues, renew your faith through worship and network with exhibiting organizations. You don’t want to miss this event!

 

 

Who should attend the National Convention?

Physicians, Physician Assistants, Nurse Practitioners, Dentists, Optometrists, Nurses, Dental Hygienists, Administrators and Office Staff, Residents, Students, all other healthcare professionals, and spouses of all healthcare professionals.

Safeguarding the Sacred: Integrating Ceremony and Medical Safety in Psychedelic Healing
May 5 @ 2:30 pm – 5:00 pm
Art Garden AVL

Location: Art Garden AVL, 191 Lyman St #316, Asheville, NC 28801, USA

Dive into the intersection of ritual and the modern therapeutic model at ‘Safeguarding the Sacred: Integrating Ceremony and Medical Safety in Psychedelic Healing.’

This event will be held at the wonderful art gallery and event space “Art Garden AVL” in the River Arts District. The mushroom cafe “The Pot Stirred” at this location will be open for guests during the event!

Join acclaimed author Matt Zemon (author of Psychedelics for Everyone: A Beginner’s Guide to These Powerful Medicines for Anxiety, Depression, Addiction, PTSD, and Expanding Consciousness and Beyond the Trip, A Journal for Psychedelic Preparation and Integration) and Tiffany Sauls, MD, Owner and Founder of Asheville Integrative Psychiatry, as they explore the harmonious fusion of ceremonial wisdom and medical expertise in the realm of psychedelic healing. From the structured environments of mental health clinics to the rich tapestries of ceremonial practices, this event delves into how both approaches can coalesce to ensure safety, efficacy, and respect for the sacred in the transformative journey of healing with psychedelics. Discover how integrating ceremony and medical safety can enhance therapeutic outcomes and also honor the diverse cultural roots of psychedelic traditions while maintaining ethical standards and ensuring the well-being of participants.

There will be time for audience Q & A at the end of the event.

Monday, May 6, 2024
ASAP: How Does Western North Carolina Shop for Food SURVEY
May 6 all-day
online

ASAP (Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project) has released a survey to learn more about how people in Western North Carolina shop for food and why they choose the food they do. The survey, part of a three-year project by ASAP’s Local Food Research Center, is for any resident of Western North Carolina over the age of 18, no matter where or how they shop for food. It can be completed online at surveymonkey.com/r/WNCFoodASAP or over the phone by calling ASAP at 828-236-1282. It should take approximately 8 to 12 minutes to complete and will be open through Oct. 31, 2024. Respondents are encouraged to share the survey widely with families, friends, and co-workers.

 

“By completing this survey, you are helping local farmers understand and connect with consumers,” said Amy Marion, ASAP Associate Director and lead researcher. “The challenges of our food system are constantly evolving. Improving it requires active participation from all community members. With this research we can better understand consumer values and the barriers they face, and help farmers and food producers improve communications with their customers and their communities.”

 

The survey is part of a three-year research project, “Connections in Direct Markets: Assessing the feedback loop between consumer values and farmers’ marketing strategies,” which will examine and improve communication and alignment between farmers and consumers in Western North Carolina. The research phase will also employ consumer focus groups, farmer interviews and case studies, and more targeted surveying. The broad consumer survey provides an update to the last consumer survey conducted by the Local Food Research Center in 2014. Results from the current research project will be shared in 2025.

 

ASAP founded the Local Food Research Center in 2011 to study the economic, environmental, and social impacts of localizing food systems. From its inception, ASAP’s programs and services have been grounded in research and evaluation, adjusting based on a strong feedback loop and observation of current conditions in the food system.

 

This project is supported in part by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, U.S. Department of Agriculture, under award number 2022-38640-37488 through the Southern Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program under subaward number LS23-382. USDA is an equal opportunity employer and service provider.

New Moon Sound Bath
May 6 @ 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
The Restoration Asheville

Join us for a guided meditation session by Asheville Wellness Tours under the magical pull of the new moon! Immerse yourself in the soothing sounds of a wide variety of instruments including crystal bowls, gongs, didgeridoo, handpans, flutes, chimes, and so much more! Feel the vibrations wash away any stress or tension and enjoy this opportunity to clear your mind and renew. Space is limited.

Tuesday, May 7, 2024
Virtual Lunch + Learn: Made X Mountains
May 7 @ 12:00 pm
online

 

The MADE X MTNS (Made By Mountains) Partnership is working to expand the outdoor industry and economy across North Carolina’s Appalachian region and catalyze rural development by building vibrant outdoor communities, growing outdoor businesses, and amplifying outdoor culture. This work is funded by Appalachian Regional Commission, Dogwood Health Trust, and Mountain BizWorks. Join the Building Outdoor Communities Program Specialist, Bradley Spiegel to learn about the 7-month capacity building program that 19 WNC counties have completed to holistically and proactively plan for outdoor assets that balance conservation and community development. FREE virtual presentation.