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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.

Thursday, May 11, 2023
Minority-Owned Businesses, Nonprofit Organizations: Kudzu’s $10K Brand Giveaway
May 11 all-day
online

Minority-Owned Businesses, Nonprofit Organizations Encouraged to Apply for Kudzu’s $10K Brand Giveaway

The winner will be chosen through public voting on social media.

 

 

Kudzu Brands’ $10K donation includes brand story development, logo creation, and marketing collateral development. Past winners include Literacy Together and More To Love Consignment.

 

The contest timeline, rules, details, and updates are on Kudzu’s website, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. The application, rules, and complete list of WNC counties permitted for entry are published on the agency’s website, too.

 

Kudzu’s $10K Brand Giveaway relies on the influence of social media to determine the winner. Once finalists are announced on June 7, they will need to use their social platforms to engage followers to vote them into the winner’s circle.

Kudzu Brands has extensive experience helping businesses and nonprofit organizations grow into memorable, profitable, and sustainable brands. Our full suite of brand and marketing services uses a proven and effective process that makes supporting you easy and effective.

The PACT Act and Veterans Benefits
May 11 all-day
online

In August of 2022 the President of the United States signed into law the PACT Act, the most sweeping legislation in regards to Veteran benefits in three plus decades. This legislation will provide healthcare and disability benefits to hundreds of thousands of Veterans who served in hostile locations across the globe. It is a new law that expands VA health care and benefits for Veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances and adds to the list of health conditions that are presumed to be caused by exposure to these substances.

On April 1, 2023, multiple veterans affairs groups organized a town hall at the A-B Tech Conference Center to help veterans in WNC. Charles George VA partnered with Vietnam Veterans of America and the North Carolina State Council to host a Toxic Exposure/PACT Act Veterans Town Hall. At the event, veterans received assistance with signing up for healthcare benefits, filing disability claims, and completing toxic exposure screenings.

According to the VA website, the PACT Act will bring these changes:

  • Expands and extends eligibility for VA health care for Veterans with toxic exposures and Veterans of the Vietnam, Gulf War, and post-9/11 eras
  • Adds 20+ more presumptive conditions for burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic exposures
  • Adds more presumptive-exposure locations for Agent Orange and radiation
  • Requires VA to provide a toxic exposure screening to every Veteran enrolled in VA health care

The PACT Act also includes benefits for surviving family members of a Veteran including a monthly VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (VA DIC) payment, a one-time accrued benefits payment, or a survivors pension. More information on the PACT Act can be found here.

Buncombe County residents who think that they could be eligible for the PACT Act should contact the Buncombe County Veterans Service Office (VSO). Buncombe County Veterans Services Supervisor, Heath Smith, gave a presentation about the PACT Act at the town hall event. Navigating benefits eligibility can be a challenge which is why Smith encourages people to contact their local VSO. Smith says, “If you think that a health condition is due to your time in service, get in touch with your local Veterans Service Office and they will guide you through the benefits that you might be entitled to. We encourage people to contact a Veterans Service Officer to learn more about this new legislation.”

In Buncombe County, Veterans Service Officers can be reached by calling (828) 250-5726. Our Veterans Services team will be happy to assist you with questions you might have about the PACT Act and other benefits that you and your relatives could qualify for.

Click here to watch the video of Heath Smith’s presentation at the Town Hall.

Click here for WLOS coverage of the event.

Tourism Product Development Fund Applications Open
May 11 all-day
online

graphic card for tourism product development fund applications due May seventeenNews from BCTDA

The Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority (BCTDA) is accepting Phase I applications for the Tourism Product Development Fund (TPDF) until Wednesday, May 17. Nonprofits and government partners are invited to submit proposals for major tourism capital projects with $8 million available for award this grant cycle.

The BCTDA has invested nearly $60 million in 46 community capital projects since 2001, including sports and recreational facilities, performing arts and entertainment venues, greenways and trails, and museums and other cultural amenities. These investments are powered by visitors through the lodging tax collected from their stay at hotels, vacation rentals, and bed and breakfasts in the County. The application portal as well as more information on the TPDF grant process, evaluation criteria, and FAQs, can be found at ashevillecvb.com/product-development/.

Entrepreneur’s Breakfast
May 11 @ 7:30 am – 9:00 am
Highland Lake Inn, Grand Ole Hall

Join the Chamber for an inspiring program featuring two area entrepreneur Power Couples, Cheryl and Brian, Stuller Power Solutions, and Toni and Josh, Warren Restoration. Hear about their journeys and the lessons they learned along the way to create their successful businesses.

Eliada Lunch of a Lifetime
May 11 @ 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Crowne Plaza

Our Annual Lunch of a Lifetime is quickly approaching and space is limited! Please consider joining us for our one-hour lunch and presentation to hear more about how we are growing at Eliada! We would love you see you there.

Click HERE to become a Priority Table Sponsor. Please send your company logo to [email protected].

Click HERE to purchase a table of 8 or…

Click HERE to purchase individual seats at $15 each

What You Need to Know

  • WHEN: Thursday, May 11th from 12 – 1 pm
  • WHERE: The Crowne Plaza Expo Center (1 Resort Drive, Asheville, NC 28806)
  • WHY: Raise $50,000 which will provide shelter, residential treatment, education, and life skills for children and young adults at Eliada. Helping children and teens in crisis develop the skills they need to overcome life’s obstacles and become productive adults helps ensure the future of our community. We cannot achieve this without your support.
  • HOW TO ATTEND: The event is a fundraiser, but there is no minimum or maximum gift expected. We are happy for the opportunity to educate and inspire people about the valuable services we provide for children and youth. Tickets are $15 each or $120 for a table of 8 or $1000 for a priority table sponsorship. Any questions – reach out to Dillon Rubalcava ([email protected]).
  • MISSION: Helping Children Succeed
  • SERVICE AREA: State of North Carolina – Eliada serves more than 600 children annually through 5 key programs that provide a place to live, education, special education, food and clothing, and intensive therapy to children who need these services. While most children are from Buncombe and surrounding counties, Eliada serves children from all corners of NC.
How to Start a Business in the Summer of 2023
May 11 @ 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
BRCC Small Business Center

In-Person Only
No cost due to sponsor support


Understand the basics of starting a business in this seminar that takes you from idea to opportunity. Learn key strategies for start-up, financing and marketing as well as important information about legal issues, licensing, zoning, operations and more. Realize the importance of a self-assessment and how to evaluate the feasibility of your business idea. Discover the resources available to help you start and successfully operate your business.

Speaker(s): Gary Heisey Executive Director Mission Acceleration and Vision Leadership Program

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

Friday, May 12, 2023
Minority-Owned Businesses, Nonprofit Organizations: Kudzu’s $10K Brand Giveaway
May 12 all-day
online

Minority-Owned Businesses, Nonprofit Organizations Encouraged to Apply for Kudzu’s $10K Brand Giveaway

The winner will be chosen through public voting on social media.

 

 

Kudzu Brands’ $10K donation includes brand story development, logo creation, and marketing collateral development. Past winners include Literacy Together and More To Love Consignment.

 

The contest timeline, rules, details, and updates are on Kudzu’s website, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. The application, rules, and complete list of WNC counties permitted for entry are published on the agency’s website, too.

 

Kudzu’s $10K Brand Giveaway relies on the influence of social media to determine the winner. Once finalists are announced on June 7, they will need to use their social platforms to engage followers to vote them into the winner’s circle.

Kudzu Brands has extensive experience helping businesses and nonprofit organizations grow into memorable, profitable, and sustainable brands. Our full suite of brand and marketing services uses a proven and effective process that makes supporting you easy and effective.

The PACT Act and Veterans Benefits
May 12 all-day
online

In August of 2022 the President of the United States signed into law the PACT Act, the most sweeping legislation in regards to Veteran benefits in three plus decades. This legislation will provide healthcare and disability benefits to hundreds of thousands of Veterans who served in hostile locations across the globe. It is a new law that expands VA health care and benefits for Veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances and adds to the list of health conditions that are presumed to be caused by exposure to these substances.

On April 1, 2023, multiple veterans affairs groups organized a town hall at the A-B Tech Conference Center to help veterans in WNC. Charles George VA partnered with Vietnam Veterans of America and the North Carolina State Council to host a Toxic Exposure/PACT Act Veterans Town Hall. At the event, veterans received assistance with signing up for healthcare benefits, filing disability claims, and completing toxic exposure screenings.

According to the VA website, the PACT Act will bring these changes:

  • Expands and extends eligibility for VA health care for Veterans with toxic exposures and Veterans of the Vietnam, Gulf War, and post-9/11 eras
  • Adds 20+ more presumptive conditions for burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic exposures
  • Adds more presumptive-exposure locations for Agent Orange and radiation
  • Requires VA to provide a toxic exposure screening to every Veteran enrolled in VA health care

The PACT Act also includes benefits for surviving family members of a Veteran including a monthly VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (VA DIC) payment, a one-time accrued benefits payment, or a survivors pension. More information on the PACT Act can be found here.

Buncombe County residents who think that they could be eligible for the PACT Act should contact the Buncombe County Veterans Service Office (VSO). Buncombe County Veterans Services Supervisor, Heath Smith, gave a presentation about the PACT Act at the town hall event. Navigating benefits eligibility can be a challenge which is why Smith encourages people to contact their local VSO. Smith says, “If you think that a health condition is due to your time in service, get in touch with your local Veterans Service Office and they will guide you through the benefits that you might be entitled to. We encourage people to contact a Veterans Service Officer to learn more about this new legislation.”

In Buncombe County, Veterans Service Officers can be reached by calling (828) 250-5726. Our Veterans Services team will be happy to assist you with questions you might have about the PACT Act and other benefits that you and your relatives could qualify for.

Click here to watch the video of Heath Smith’s presentation at the Town Hall.

Click here for WLOS coverage of the event.

Tourism Product Development Fund Applications Open
May 12 all-day
online

graphic card for tourism product development fund applications due May seventeenNews from BCTDA

The Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority (BCTDA) is accepting Phase I applications for the Tourism Product Development Fund (TPDF) until Wednesday, May 17. Nonprofits and government partners are invited to submit proposals for major tourism capital projects with $8 million available for award this grant cycle.

The BCTDA has invested nearly $60 million in 46 community capital projects since 2001, including sports and recreational facilities, performing arts and entertainment venues, greenways and trails, and museums and other cultural amenities. These investments are powered by visitors through the lodging tax collected from their stay at hotels, vacation rentals, and bed and breakfasts in the County. The application portal as well as more information on the TPDF grant process, evaluation criteria, and FAQs, can be found at ashevillecvb.com/product-development/.

AM Power Hour
May 12 @ 8:00 am – 9:00 am
Cascades Mountain Resort

Enjoy a more productive day by meeting prospective customers at the start of your day. You may find a strong referral source, a new vendor, the perfect client, or simply get a foot in the door for connecting again later at another Chamber event. AM Power Hour is great if you are an early-bird or can’t make our after-hours networking events.

Thank you to We Sell WNC, for being a Presenting Sponsor of the 2023 AM Power Hours. April’s AM Power hour is Hosted by Cascades Mountain Resort.

A Deeper Dive Into Canva
May 12 @ 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
online

Online: Zoom Webinar
No cost due to sponsor support


If you’re obsessed with Canva, you’re not alone! This session is for the small business owner who has started using Canva, but wants a deeper dive to learn more fun tools you can use to promote your business. In this workshop you will learn advanced techniques on the Canva platform, including creating designs from scratch, uploading your own graphics, Canva Pro features, presentations and much more.

Speaker(s): TenBiz

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

Webinar information will be emailed after registration.

Saturday, May 13, 2023
Minority-Owned Businesses, Nonprofit Organizations: Kudzu’s $10K Brand Giveaway
May 13 all-day
online

Minority-Owned Businesses, Nonprofit Organizations Encouraged to Apply for Kudzu’s $10K Brand Giveaway

The winner will be chosen through public voting on social media.

 

 

Kudzu Brands’ $10K donation includes brand story development, logo creation, and marketing collateral development. Past winners include Literacy Together and More To Love Consignment.

 

The contest timeline, rules, details, and updates are on Kudzu’s website, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. The application, rules, and complete list of WNC counties permitted for entry are published on the agency’s website, too.

 

Kudzu’s $10K Brand Giveaway relies on the influence of social media to determine the winner. Once finalists are announced on June 7, they will need to use their social platforms to engage followers to vote them into the winner’s circle.

Kudzu Brands has extensive experience helping businesses and nonprofit organizations grow into memorable, profitable, and sustainable brands. Our full suite of brand and marketing services uses a proven and effective process that makes supporting you easy and effective.

Tourism Product Development Fund Applications Open
May 13 all-day
online

graphic card for tourism product development fund applications due May seventeenNews from BCTDA

The Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority (BCTDA) is accepting Phase I applications for the Tourism Product Development Fund (TPDF) until Wednesday, May 17. Nonprofits and government partners are invited to submit proposals for major tourism capital projects with $8 million available for award this grant cycle.

The BCTDA has invested nearly $60 million in 46 community capital projects since 2001, including sports and recreational facilities, performing arts and entertainment venues, greenways and trails, and museums and other cultural amenities. These investments are powered by visitors through the lodging tax collected from their stay at hotels, vacation rentals, and bed and breakfasts in the County. The application portal as well as more information on the TPDF grant process, evaluation criteria, and FAQs, can be found at ashevillecvb.com/product-development/.

Sunday, May 14, 2023
Minority-Owned Businesses, Nonprofit Organizations: Kudzu’s $10K Brand Giveaway
May 14 all-day
online

Minority-Owned Businesses, Nonprofit Organizations Encouraged to Apply for Kudzu’s $10K Brand Giveaway

The winner will be chosen through public voting on social media.

 

 

Kudzu Brands’ $10K donation includes brand story development, logo creation, and marketing collateral development. Past winners include Literacy Together and More To Love Consignment.

 

The contest timeline, rules, details, and updates are on Kudzu’s website, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. The application, rules, and complete list of WNC counties permitted for entry are published on the agency’s website, too.

 

Kudzu’s $10K Brand Giveaway relies on the influence of social media to determine the winner. Once finalists are announced on June 7, they will need to use their social platforms to engage followers to vote them into the winner’s circle.

Kudzu Brands has extensive experience helping businesses and nonprofit organizations grow into memorable, profitable, and sustainable brands. Our full suite of brand and marketing services uses a proven and effective process that makes supporting you easy and effective.

Tourism Product Development Fund Applications Open
May 14 all-day
online

graphic card for tourism product development fund applications due May seventeenNews from BCTDA

The Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority (BCTDA) is accepting Phase I applications for the Tourism Product Development Fund (TPDF) until Wednesday, May 17. Nonprofits and government partners are invited to submit proposals for major tourism capital projects with $8 million available for award this grant cycle.

The BCTDA has invested nearly $60 million in 46 community capital projects since 2001, including sports and recreational facilities, performing arts and entertainment venues, greenways and trails, and museums and other cultural amenities. These investments are powered by visitors through the lodging tax collected from their stay at hotels, vacation rentals, and bed and breakfasts in the County. The application portal as well as more information on the TPDF grant process, evaluation criteria, and FAQs, can be found at ashevillecvb.com/product-development/.

Monday, May 15, 2023
Minority-Owned Businesses, Nonprofit Organizations: Kudzu’s $10K Brand Giveaway
May 15 all-day
online

Minority-Owned Businesses, Nonprofit Organizations Encouraged to Apply for Kudzu’s $10K Brand Giveaway

The winner will be chosen through public voting on social media.

 

 

Kudzu Brands’ $10K donation includes brand story development, logo creation, and marketing collateral development. Past winners include Literacy Together and More To Love Consignment.

 

The contest timeline, rules, details, and updates are on Kudzu’s website, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. The application, rules, and complete list of WNC counties permitted for entry are published on the agency’s website, too.

 

Kudzu’s $10K Brand Giveaway relies on the influence of social media to determine the winner. Once finalists are announced on June 7, they will need to use their social platforms to engage followers to vote them into the winner’s circle.

Kudzu Brands has extensive experience helping businesses and nonprofit organizations grow into memorable, profitable, and sustainable brands. Our full suite of brand and marketing services uses a proven and effective process that makes supporting you easy and effective.

Small Business Week
May 15 all-day

Small businesses are a vital part of Asheville’s economy: sustaining jobs, adding to our unique culture and innovating.

Small Business Shoutout Challenge
Each day of Small Business Week, give a shoutout on social media to local small businesses you interact with or whose support you count on. These could be small businesses you rely on for your business operations, small businesses you love or companies you partner with. Tag the business and use hashtags #smallbusinessshoutout #avlchamber #avlsmallbiz

Small Business Week Events

Please click the links below to register for each event.

  • Tuesday, May 16, Policy on Tap & WomanUP in Action, Part II, 3:30-5 p.m. at White Labs – Register

    Policy on Tap teams up with WomanUP for the second in our WomanUP In Action series to talk about the business and economic impacts of childcare for families and businesses of Buncombe County. Hear from a Wells Fargo economist, who will share highlights from a recent report on the importance of childcare to families and to businesses and the need for public and private investments in the childcare system. Local employers will also share their experiences.

  • Wednesday, May 17, Smart Series: Everyone Knows Marketing Sucks, 12-1 p.m. – Register
    Many people avoid, dread, and even hate marketing, but why? Oftentimes it’s because their understanding of marketing is out of date. Marketing has evolved to become something else in the modern world and brands must let go of the old marketing paradigms and embrace the new. Take a leap of faith and learn to fall in love with marketing! Discover ways in which your marketing can be a powerful voice in the world for your brand and the people you serve.
  • Thursday, May 18, Sky High Growth Awards, 4-6 p.m. Sierra Nevada Brewing – RegisterThe Sky High Growth Awards honor the determination and accomplishments of Asheville’s businesses. Honorees are companies experiencing growth and contributing to our local economy through innovation and hard work. A stand-up reception style event with plenty of opportunity for making new connections and engaging conversation.

 

The PACT Act and Veterans Benefits
May 15 all-day
online

In August of 2022 the President of the United States signed into law the PACT Act, the most sweeping legislation in regards to Veteran benefits in three plus decades. This legislation will provide healthcare and disability benefits to hundreds of thousands of Veterans who served in hostile locations across the globe. It is a new law that expands VA health care and benefits for Veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances and adds to the list of health conditions that are presumed to be caused by exposure to these substances.

On April 1, 2023, multiple veterans affairs groups organized a town hall at the A-B Tech Conference Center to help veterans in WNC. Charles George VA partnered with Vietnam Veterans of America and the North Carolina State Council to host a Toxic Exposure/PACT Act Veterans Town Hall. At the event, veterans received assistance with signing up for healthcare benefits, filing disability claims, and completing toxic exposure screenings.

According to the VA website, the PACT Act will bring these changes:

  • Expands and extends eligibility for VA health care for Veterans with toxic exposures and Veterans of the Vietnam, Gulf War, and post-9/11 eras
  • Adds 20+ more presumptive conditions for burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic exposures
  • Adds more presumptive-exposure locations for Agent Orange and radiation
  • Requires VA to provide a toxic exposure screening to every Veteran enrolled in VA health care

The PACT Act also includes benefits for surviving family members of a Veteran including a monthly VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (VA DIC) payment, a one-time accrued benefits payment, or a survivors pension. More information on the PACT Act can be found here.

Buncombe County residents who think that they could be eligible for the PACT Act should contact the Buncombe County Veterans Service Office (VSO). Buncombe County Veterans Services Supervisor, Heath Smith, gave a presentation about the PACT Act at the town hall event. Navigating benefits eligibility can be a challenge which is why Smith encourages people to contact their local VSO. Smith says, “If you think that a health condition is due to your time in service, get in touch with your local Veterans Service Office and they will guide you through the benefits that you might be entitled to. We encourage people to contact a Veterans Service Officer to learn more about this new legislation.”

In Buncombe County, Veterans Service Officers can be reached by calling (828) 250-5726. Our Veterans Services team will be happy to assist you with questions you might have about the PACT Act and other benefits that you and your relatives could qualify for.

Click here to watch the video of Heath Smith’s presentation at the Town Hall.

Click here for WLOS coverage of the event.

Tourism Product Development Fund Applications Open
May 15 all-day
online

graphic card for tourism product development fund applications due May seventeenNews from BCTDA

The Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority (BCTDA) is accepting Phase I applications for the Tourism Product Development Fund (TPDF) until Wednesday, May 17. Nonprofits and government partners are invited to submit proposals for major tourism capital projects with $8 million available for award this grant cycle.

The BCTDA has invested nearly $60 million in 46 community capital projects since 2001, including sports and recreational facilities, performing arts and entertainment venues, greenways and trails, and museums and other cultural amenities. These investments are powered by visitors through the lodging tax collected from their stay at hotels, vacation rentals, and bed and breakfasts in the County. The application portal as well as more information on the TPDF grant process, evaluation criteria, and FAQs, can be found at ashevillecvb.com/product-development/.

Tuesday, May 16, 2023
Minority-Owned Businesses, Nonprofit Organizations: Kudzu’s $10K Brand Giveaway
May 16 all-day
online

Minority-Owned Businesses, Nonprofit Organizations Encouraged to Apply for Kudzu’s $10K Brand Giveaway

The winner will be chosen through public voting on social media.

 

 

Kudzu Brands’ $10K donation includes brand story development, logo creation, and marketing collateral development. Past winners include Literacy Together and More To Love Consignment.

 

The contest timeline, rules, details, and updates are on Kudzu’s website, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. The application, rules, and complete list of WNC counties permitted for entry are published on the agency’s website, too.

 

Kudzu’s $10K Brand Giveaway relies on the influence of social media to determine the winner. Once finalists are announced on June 7, they will need to use their social platforms to engage followers to vote them into the winner’s circle.

Kudzu Brands has extensive experience helping businesses and nonprofit organizations grow into memorable, profitable, and sustainable brands. Our full suite of brand and marketing services uses a proven and effective process that makes supporting you easy and effective.

Small Business Week
May 16 all-day

Small businesses are a vital part of Asheville’s economy: sustaining jobs, adding to our unique culture and innovating.

Small Business Shoutout Challenge
Each day of Small Business Week, give a shoutout on social media to local small businesses you interact with or whose support you count on. These could be small businesses you rely on for your business operations, small businesses you love or companies you partner with. Tag the business and use hashtags #smallbusinessshoutout #avlchamber #avlsmallbiz

Small Business Week Events

Please click the links below to register for each event.

  • Tuesday, May 16, Policy on Tap & WomanUP in Action, Part II, 3:30-5 p.m. at White Labs – Register

    Policy on Tap teams up with WomanUP for the second in our WomanUP In Action series to talk about the business and economic impacts of childcare for families and businesses of Buncombe County. Hear from a Wells Fargo economist, who will share highlights from a recent report on the importance of childcare to families and to businesses and the need for public and private investments in the childcare system. Local employers will also share their experiences.

  • Wednesday, May 17, Smart Series: Everyone Knows Marketing Sucks, 12-1 p.m. – Register
    Many people avoid, dread, and even hate marketing, but why? Oftentimes it’s because their understanding of marketing is out of date. Marketing has evolved to become something else in the modern world and brands must let go of the old marketing paradigms and embrace the new. Take a leap of faith and learn to fall in love with marketing! Discover ways in which your marketing can be a powerful voice in the world for your brand and the people you serve.
  • Thursday, May 18, Sky High Growth Awards, 4-6 p.m. Sierra Nevada Brewing – RegisterThe Sky High Growth Awards honor the determination and accomplishments of Asheville’s businesses. Honorees are companies experiencing growth and contributing to our local economy through innovation and hard work. A stand-up reception style event with plenty of opportunity for making new connections and engaging conversation.

 

The PACT Act and Veterans Benefits
May 16 all-day
online

In August of 2022 the President of the United States signed into law the PACT Act, the most sweeping legislation in regards to Veteran benefits in three plus decades. This legislation will provide healthcare and disability benefits to hundreds of thousands of Veterans who served in hostile locations across the globe. It is a new law that expands VA health care and benefits for Veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances and adds to the list of health conditions that are presumed to be caused by exposure to these substances.

On April 1, 2023, multiple veterans affairs groups organized a town hall at the A-B Tech Conference Center to help veterans in WNC. Charles George VA partnered with Vietnam Veterans of America and the North Carolina State Council to host a Toxic Exposure/PACT Act Veterans Town Hall. At the event, veterans received assistance with signing up for healthcare benefits, filing disability claims, and completing toxic exposure screenings.

According to the VA website, the PACT Act will bring these changes:

  • Expands and extends eligibility for VA health care for Veterans with toxic exposures and Veterans of the Vietnam, Gulf War, and post-9/11 eras
  • Adds 20+ more presumptive conditions for burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic exposures
  • Adds more presumptive-exposure locations for Agent Orange and radiation
  • Requires VA to provide a toxic exposure screening to every Veteran enrolled in VA health care

The PACT Act also includes benefits for surviving family members of a Veteran including a monthly VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (VA DIC) payment, a one-time accrued benefits payment, or a survivors pension. More information on the PACT Act can be found here.

Buncombe County residents who think that they could be eligible for the PACT Act should contact the Buncombe County Veterans Service Office (VSO). Buncombe County Veterans Services Supervisor, Heath Smith, gave a presentation about the PACT Act at the town hall event. Navigating benefits eligibility can be a challenge which is why Smith encourages people to contact their local VSO. Smith says, “If you think that a health condition is due to your time in service, get in touch with your local Veterans Service Office and they will guide you through the benefits that you might be entitled to. We encourage people to contact a Veterans Service Officer to learn more about this new legislation.”

In Buncombe County, Veterans Service Officers can be reached by calling (828) 250-5726. Our Veterans Services team will be happy to assist you with questions you might have about the PACT Act and other benefits that you and your relatives could qualify for.

Click here to watch the video of Heath Smith’s presentation at the Town Hall.

Click here for WLOS coverage of the event.

Tourism Product Development Fund Applications Open
May 16 all-day
online

graphic card for tourism product development fund applications due May seventeenNews from BCTDA

The Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority (BCTDA) is accepting Phase I applications for the Tourism Product Development Fund (TPDF) until Wednesday, May 17. Nonprofits and government partners are invited to submit proposals for major tourism capital projects with $8 million available for award this grant cycle.

The BCTDA has invested nearly $60 million in 46 community capital projects since 2001, including sports and recreational facilities, performing arts and entertainment venues, greenways and trails, and museums and other cultural amenities. These investments are powered by visitors through the lodging tax collected from their stay at hotels, vacation rentals, and bed and breakfasts in the County. The application portal as well as more information on the TPDF grant process, evaluation criteria, and FAQs, can be found at ashevillecvb.com/product-development/.

 Policy on Tap + WomanUP in Action, Part II
May 16 @ 3:30 pm – 5:00 pm
White Labs Kitchen & Tap

 

Policy on Tap teams up with WomanUP for the second in our WomanUP In Action series to talk about the business and economic impacts of childcare for families and businesses of Buncombe County. Hear from a Wells Fargo economist, who will share highlights from a recent report on the importance of childcare to families and to businesses and the need for public and private investments in the childcare system. Local employers will also share their experiences.

Noble Pest Solutions Ribbon Cutting
May 16 @ 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Noble Pest Solutions
Wednesday, May 17, 2023
Minority-Owned Businesses, Nonprofit Organizations: Kudzu’s $10K Brand Giveaway
May 17 all-day
online

Minority-Owned Businesses, Nonprofit Organizations Encouraged to Apply for Kudzu’s $10K Brand Giveaway

The winner will be chosen through public voting on social media.

 

 

Kudzu Brands’ $10K donation includes brand story development, logo creation, and marketing collateral development. Past winners include Literacy Together and More To Love Consignment.

 

The contest timeline, rules, details, and updates are on Kudzu’s website, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. The application, rules, and complete list of WNC counties permitted for entry are published on the agency’s website, too.

 

Kudzu’s $10K Brand Giveaway relies on the influence of social media to determine the winner. Once finalists are announced on June 7, they will need to use their social platforms to engage followers to vote them into the winner’s circle.

Kudzu Brands has extensive experience helping businesses and nonprofit organizations grow into memorable, profitable, and sustainable brands. Our full suite of brand and marketing services uses a proven and effective process that makes supporting you easy and effective.

Small Business Week
May 17 all-day

Small businesses are a vital part of Asheville’s economy: sustaining jobs, adding to our unique culture and innovating.

Small Business Shoutout Challenge
Each day of Small Business Week, give a shoutout on social media to local small businesses you interact with or whose support you count on. These could be small businesses you rely on for your business operations, small businesses you love or companies you partner with. Tag the business and use hashtags #smallbusinessshoutout #avlchamber #avlsmallbiz

Small Business Week Events

Please click the links below to register for each event.

  • Tuesday, May 16, Policy on Tap & WomanUP in Action, Part II, 3:30-5 p.m. at White Labs – Register

    Policy on Tap teams up with WomanUP for the second in our WomanUP In Action series to talk about the business and economic impacts of childcare for families and businesses of Buncombe County. Hear from a Wells Fargo economist, who will share highlights from a recent report on the importance of childcare to families and to businesses and the need for public and private investments in the childcare system. Local employers will also share their experiences.

  • Wednesday, May 17, Smart Series: Everyone Knows Marketing Sucks, 12-1 p.m. – Register
    Many people avoid, dread, and even hate marketing, but why? Oftentimes it’s because their understanding of marketing is out of date. Marketing has evolved to become something else in the modern world and brands must let go of the old marketing paradigms and embrace the new. Take a leap of faith and learn to fall in love with marketing! Discover ways in which your marketing can be a powerful voice in the world for your brand and the people you serve.
  • Thursday, May 18, Sky High Growth Awards, 4-6 p.m. Sierra Nevada Brewing – RegisterThe Sky High Growth Awards honor the determination and accomplishments of Asheville’s businesses. Honorees are companies experiencing growth and contributing to our local economy through innovation and hard work. A stand-up reception style event with plenty of opportunity for making new connections and engaging conversation.

 

The PACT Act and Veterans Benefits
May 17 all-day
online

In August of 2022 the President of the United States signed into law the PACT Act, the most sweeping legislation in regards to Veteran benefits in three plus decades. This legislation will provide healthcare and disability benefits to hundreds of thousands of Veterans who served in hostile locations across the globe. It is a new law that expands VA health care and benefits for Veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances and adds to the list of health conditions that are presumed to be caused by exposure to these substances.

On April 1, 2023, multiple veterans affairs groups organized a town hall at the A-B Tech Conference Center to help veterans in WNC. Charles George VA partnered with Vietnam Veterans of America and the North Carolina State Council to host a Toxic Exposure/PACT Act Veterans Town Hall. At the event, veterans received assistance with signing up for healthcare benefits, filing disability claims, and completing toxic exposure screenings.

According to the VA website, the PACT Act will bring these changes:

  • Expands and extends eligibility for VA health care for Veterans with toxic exposures and Veterans of the Vietnam, Gulf War, and post-9/11 eras
  • Adds 20+ more presumptive conditions for burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic exposures
  • Adds more presumptive-exposure locations for Agent Orange and radiation
  • Requires VA to provide a toxic exposure screening to every Veteran enrolled in VA health care

The PACT Act also includes benefits for surviving family members of a Veteran including a monthly VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (VA DIC) payment, a one-time accrued benefits payment, or a survivors pension. More information on the PACT Act can be found here.

Buncombe County residents who think that they could be eligible for the PACT Act should contact the Buncombe County Veterans Service Office (VSO). Buncombe County Veterans Services Supervisor, Heath Smith, gave a presentation about the PACT Act at the town hall event. Navigating benefits eligibility can be a challenge which is why Smith encourages people to contact their local VSO. Smith says, “If you think that a health condition is due to your time in service, get in touch with your local Veterans Service Office and they will guide you through the benefits that you might be entitled to. We encourage people to contact a Veterans Service Officer to learn more about this new legislation.”

In Buncombe County, Veterans Service Officers can be reached by calling (828) 250-5726. Our Veterans Services team will be happy to assist you with questions you might have about the PACT Act and other benefits that you and your relatives could qualify for.

Click here to watch the video of Heath Smith’s presentation at the Town Hall.

Click here for WLOS coverage of the event.

Tourism Product Development Fund Applications Open
May 17 all-day
online

graphic card for tourism product development fund applications due May seventeenNews from BCTDA

The Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority (BCTDA) is accepting Phase I applications for the Tourism Product Development Fund (TPDF) until Wednesday, May 17. Nonprofits and government partners are invited to submit proposals for major tourism capital projects with $8 million available for award this grant cycle.

The BCTDA has invested nearly $60 million in 46 community capital projects since 2001, including sports and recreational facilities, performing arts and entertainment venues, greenways and trails, and museums and other cultural amenities. These investments are powered by visitors through the lodging tax collected from their stay at hotels, vacation rentals, and bed and breakfasts in the County. The application portal as well as more information on the TPDF grant process, evaluation criteria, and FAQs, can be found at ashevillecvb.com/product-development/.

Smart Series: Everyone Knows Marketing Sucks
May 17 @ 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Hatchworks Coworking

Many people avoid, dread, and even hate marketing, but why? Oftentimes it’s because their understanding of marketing is out of date. Marketing has evolved to become something else in the modern world and brands must let go of the old marketing paradigms and embrace the new. Take a leap of faith and learn to fall in love with marketing! Discover ways in which your marketing can be a powerful voice in the world for your brand and the people you serve.

Our speaker for this event is Sarah Benoit. Sarah is the lead instructor of JB Media Institute, a digital marketing school, and president of Creative Original, Inc., a small business web design and consulting firm. She is an SEO, social media, and marketing and communications strategist who has worked in this field since 2003. Sarah has also led classes, workshops, and presentations about many aspects of digital marketing throughout North Carolina and the U.S. since 2006.

Sarah received the 2017 Woman Executive of the Year Award from WomanUp at the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce. She was inducted into Asheville’s 40 Under Forty in 2013 and is a graduate of Leadership Asheville. She is also a 2017 graduate of the Hive Global Leaders program.

Registration is required so we may plan accordingly.

 

This event is offered as a benefit for Chamber membership. We also believe these are important topics for everyone, so we are opening this event to non-members for $15. We welcome you to come and check us out! Please contact Jessica Kanupp, our Member Development Specialist, at [email protected] if you’re considering a Chamber membership.