Calendar of Events
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.
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.
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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 Awards, Smart 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!
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.
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.
Get ready to celebrate at our inaugural PROpel AVL Awards Celebration on May 7th! It’s a night to honor excellence and network with fellow professionals. With Carin Metzger (aka Cookie Carter of LaZoom) as our MC and DJ Molly Parti spinning tunes plus unveiling this year’s honorees, it’s sure to be something special.
Join us to celebrate the outstanding individuals nominated for PROpel AVL Awards. From remarkable innovators and mentors to dedicated volunteers and trailblazers, these young professionals are making waves in Asheville’s community, and they’re nothing short of inspiring! Read about the nominees
About the Awards:
The new PROpel AVL Awards honor young professionals who have distinguished themselves in their profession or as leaders along with individuals who serve as mentors to young professionals in our community.
- Community/Public Service: This award honors an individual for their involvement in the community or for public service.
- Trailblazer: This award honors an individual for outstanding leadership in their organization, industry, profession or the young professional community.
- Innovation: This award honors an individual for creativity and innovation in business.
- Mentor: This award honors an individual who serves as a mentor to young professionals in our community.
- PROpel Award: This award honors an individual who embodies the spirit of PROpel AVL – whether that’s making great strides in their profession or propelling our community.
About our MC: Carin Metzger has been performing professionally on stages large, small, and mobile for over a decade. A graduate of Elon University’s BFA Acting Program and the Asheville Improv Collective, she has worked for such companies as the Nebraska Theatre Caravan, National Theatre For Children, Immediate Theatre Project, Magnetic Theatre, Attic Salt and NC Stage. Most recently she was seen hosting Enter the Garden, a pole dance ballet, at Diana Wortham and the Tour de Fat at New Belgium Asheville and directed the Double Dip production Quality Service at the Masonic Temple. She currently performs full time with LaZoom Comedy Tours.
About PROpel AVL: At PROpel AVL, we go beyond the ordinary. Imagine having exclusive access to top-notch workshops, rockstar mentors, local employers seeking talent, and a community of fearless young professionals like yourself. We don’t just offer resources; we serve up opportunities you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re fresh out of school or making your mark, PROpel AVL has your back.
You can sign up for text alerts by texting #propel to 828-827-5332. Learn more about upcoming programs at www.ashevillechamber.org/propel
This monthly event is co-sponsored with Blue Ridge Community College’s Small Business Center, the City of Hendersonville Main Street program, and the Hendersonville Merchants & Business Association features several speakers on timely community events and issues affecting our business community.
Elevate & Connect
Gear up for our monthly socials, where networking takes center stage. Join other Young Professionals under 40, for connections, exchange of ideas, and occasional guest speakers. Enjoy a complimentary beverage on us, as you mingle in style. Bring your energy, business cards and elevate your professional circle!
This evening of community impact celebrates and recognizes the individuals, organizations, and companies making significant contributions to ensure that we ALL get to live in a united and resilient community where everyone belongs, and everyone thrives. We look forward to having you join us as we shine a light on those who lend their voice, support, influence, and passion to make an extraordinary impact.
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!
For the past 10 years, the Western Women’s Business Center has been a beacon of support, empowerment, and success for women entrepreneurs in our community. As we celebrate this significant milestone, we invite you to join us in commemorating the achievements, growth, and incredible journey of the past decade.
Join us as we celebrate members Capstone Lifestyles, Inc. and their 5 year anniversary with a Ribbon Cutting!
At Capstone Lifestyles Inc. you can find unique approaches to your kitchen and bath cabinet designs and process. They prioritize client satisfaction and project success. Their services include designing cabinet spaces for various areas like kitchens, bathrooms, closets, and more, offering a range of cabinetry brands and countertop products, as well as delivery and installation.
Come and celebrate during just the ribbon cutting and hors d’oeuvres, or celebrate with them throughout the day from 10 AM – 6:00 PM!
Coffee: 10am – 11:30am
Hors D’oeuvres: 1:30pm – 3pm
Wine tasting: 5pm – 6pm
Mark Your Calendars and Seize the Opportunity to Build Great Connections!
Plus don’t miss the chance to try your luck in our 50/50 raffle!
No cost to attend, just pre-register.
Join us as we celebrate Benton Roofing’s new office relocation!
They are celebrating Benton Roofing’s new office relocation. They have moved into their brand new office located at 814 Tracy Grove Rd Flat Rock NC 28731.
They will still be calling Henderson County home. Their office includes a 2 story office space, metal fabrication shop and warehouse storage facilities. The new modernized office allows for more space to accommodate their growing team and improved delivery logistics for commercial roofing suppliers and vendors.
They are excited about their new space and look forward to new opportunities that lie ahead to continue serving their commercial roofing customers and community in Western North Carolina and beyond.
We’re hiring for one of our highest-paying jobs! Call or visit us to expedite your hiring process.
📲 (828) 558-2800
This position with a top employer offers a competitive pay rate of up to $19.50 per hour and an extensive benefits package including paid vacation and holidays, major medical insurance, 401k, and more to help set you up for financial and career success! If you’d like to expedite your hiring process, you may visit the MAU Hendersonville branch, located at 📍 2560 Asheville Hwy Suite 20, Hendersonville, NC 28791, during walk-in interview hours from
⏰ 9 AM – 11 AM or 2 PM – 4 PM, where you will be able to interview on the spot.
In partnership with Salisbury Rowan Community Action Agency.
Join us to discuss tips on how to build your confidence in the workplace.
On Land Trust Day – this year Saturday, June 1 – local businesses pledge to donate a portion of sales to support Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy’s ongoing land and water conservation efforts.
Land Trust Day coincides with National Trails Day and is celebrated each year on the first Saturday of June to recognize the accomplishments of land trusts in our region. Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy works with partners in the U.S. Forest Service and national park system to protect land for public enjoyment along the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail, the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, trails accessible off the Blue Ridge Parkway, and many more. We preserve large viewsheds enjoyed by visitors to public lands and trails in the mountains of NC and TN, as well as local farms that support the farm-to-table sector of our regional economy. Land Trust Day is an opportunity for local businesses to recognize the impact of land trusts like SAHC on our state and local economies, and to ‘give back’ by supporting ongoing conservation of natural resources – a major economic engine for WNC and East TN.
Each business that participates in Land Trust Day pledges to donate a percentage of sales from this day, or a lump sum donation, in support and recognition of Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy’s efforts.
“Each year as we approach Land Trust Day, it is our hope that by working together we can help people understand that we must preserve our environment – its beauty, its water, its open spaces, its inhabitants. It is what gives us life, both literally and figuratively,” says Lisa Cooper at Mast General Store.
Please mark your calendars and plan to shop and dine to support conservation! Thank you to our 2024 Land Trust Day Sponsors:
Kudzu Brands is excited to announce the finalists for our 2024 $10K Brand Giveaway. They include Appalachian Wildlife Refuge, Katherine Alexander Fine Jewelry, Silver Moon Custom Art & Photography, Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center, Western Carolina Medical Society, and WNC GEMS. Asheville’s top branding agency for growing businesses encourages community members to vote once daily for their favorite minority-owned business or non-profit organization from now until 11:59 pm on Friday, June 14.
Finalists must use their social media platforms to garner votes from the public. The WNC minority-owned business or non-profit organization with the most votes by June 14th will win a full branding package, including brand story development, logo design, and marketing collateral creation.
The contest timeline, rules, details, and updates are on Kudzu’s website, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. The link to vote can be found on the agency’s website and all social platforms.
Kudzu Brands has extensive experience helping businesses and non-profit 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 impactful.
Kudzu Brands is excited to announce the finalists for our 2024 $10K Brand Giveaway. They include Appalachian Wildlife Refuge, Katherine Alexander Fine Jewelry, Silver Moon Custom Art & Photography, Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center, Western Carolina Medical Society, and WNC GEMS. Asheville’s top branding agency for growing businesses encourages community members to vote once daily for their favorite minority-owned business or non-profit organization from now until 11:59 pm on Friday, June 14.
Finalists must use their social media platforms to garner votes from the public. The WNC minority-owned business or non-profit organization with the most votes by June 14th will win a full branding package, including brand story development, logo design, and marketing collateral creation.
The contest timeline, rules, details, and updates are on Kudzu’s website, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. The link to vote can be found on the agency’s website and all social platforms.
Kudzu Brands has extensive experience helping businesses and non-profit 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 impactful.
Businesses with 25 or more full-time employees are invited to an informative session on enhancing your health plan. Speakers include Dr. Ben Aiken, founder of Lantern Health; Evan Bruder, Director of SONA Pharmacy Benefits; and Patrick Long, founder of Hero Health.
This Lunch & Learn opportunity is Tuesday, June 4 from 12-1:30pm at Explore Asheville/AIR Offices (27 College Place). Enjoy a complimentary lunch as you learn how eligible employers are offering $0 deductibles to their staff while saving money on their plan.
Unsure if your business is eligible, reach out to [email protected]
Welcome to our Speechcraft Workshop! Are you looking to improve your public speaking skills in a fun and supportive environment? Join us at the Guidon Brewing Company in the event hall for four weeks of interactive sessions designed to boost your confidence in public. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to fine-tune your speaking abilities, this workshop is the perfect place to practice your craft. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to hone your skills, make new friends, and express yourself with impact. Sign up now!
Kudzu Brands is excited to announce the finalists for our 2024 $10K Brand Giveaway. They include Appalachian Wildlife Refuge, Katherine Alexander Fine Jewelry, Silver Moon Custom Art & Photography, Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center, Western Carolina Medical Society, and WNC GEMS. Asheville’s top branding agency for growing businesses encourages community members to vote once daily for their favorite minority-owned business or non-profit organization from now until 11:59 pm on Friday, June 14.
Finalists must use their social media platforms to garner votes from the public. The WNC minority-owned business or non-profit organization with the most votes by June 14th will win a full branding package, including brand story development, logo design, and marketing collateral creation.
The contest timeline, rules, details, and updates are on Kudzu’s website, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. The link to vote can be found on the agency’s website and all social platforms.
Kudzu Brands has extensive experience helping businesses and non-profit 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 impactful.
Come out for a round of golf with the Chamber!Each year, our annual Golf Classic raises funds for our Chamber of Commerce Foundation and its workforce development efforts. Programs under the Foundation include, Teacher of the Year Reception, Junior Leaders Program, Apprenticeships programs and more!Please reach out to Amy at [email protected] to register for a team, to sponsor a hole, or both! All registration forms are below.All registrations are due no later than May 29th!
Ever wanted to make fun, entertaining, and informative videos for your business, but didn’t have the budget to hire a video production crew? Learn how to create professional business videos using just your cell phone! This course covers essential video production skills tailored for business, including camera techniques, lighting, sound, and editing on mobile devices. Explore different types of business videos and discover strategies for effective video marketing and distribution. By the end of the course, you’ll be equipped to create compelling videos that enhance your brand presence and engage with your target audience. Elevate your business with the power of mobile video production!
Our speaker for this event is Andre Daugherty. Andre is the owner and lead videographer for Pro 16 Productions, a digital media creation company based in Asheville. Since 2011 he has created and produced video for many businesses, both small and large, with the unified goal of telling their unique stories to their clients.
Andre is a graduate of East Carolina University with a B.S in Communications and two-time graduate of AB Tech for digital media and general studies. He is also a landscape photographer with years of experience exploring and capturing the beautiful mountains of WNC and the surrounding areas.
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.
Kudzu Brands is excited to announce the finalists for our 2024 $10K Brand Giveaway. They include Appalachian Wildlife Refuge, Katherine Alexander Fine Jewelry, Silver Moon Custom Art & Photography, Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center, Western Carolina Medical Society, and WNC GEMS. Asheville’s top branding agency for growing businesses encourages community members to vote once daily for their favorite minority-owned business or non-profit organization from now until 11:59 pm on Friday, June 14.
Finalists must use their social media platforms to garner votes from the public. The WNC minority-owned business or non-profit organization with the most votes by June 14th will win a full branding package, including brand story development, logo design, and marketing collateral creation.
The contest timeline, rules, details, and updates are on Kudzu’s website, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. The link to vote can be found on the agency’s website and all social platforms.
Kudzu Brands has extensive experience helping businesses and non-profit 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 impactful.
Interfaith Assistance Ministry
Thursday, June 6th
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Ribbon Cutting & Mural Unveiling: Interfaith Assistance Ministry
Kudzu Brands is excited to announce the finalists for our 2024 $10K Brand Giveaway. They include Appalachian Wildlife Refuge, Katherine Alexander Fine Jewelry, Silver Moon Custom Art & Photography, Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center, Western Carolina Medical Society, and WNC GEMS. Asheville’s top branding agency for growing businesses encourages community members to vote once daily for their favorite minority-owned business or non-profit organization from now until 11:59 pm on Friday, June 14.
Finalists must use their social media platforms to garner votes from the public. The WNC minority-owned business or non-profit organization with the most votes by June 14th will win a full branding package, including brand story development, logo design, and marketing collateral creation.
The contest timeline, rules, details, and updates are on Kudzu’s website, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. The link to vote can be found on the agency’s website and all social platforms.
Kudzu Brands has extensive experience helping businesses and non-profit 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 impactful.
Join our Young Professionals group, for fun industry tours each quarter. These tours are created to gain insights into diverse businesses and organizations from our community. a chance to see their impact on our county, and offer the chance to expand your network with other YP’s as well as some seasoned Pros. This is more than a tour – it’s an opportunity to connect, learn and fuel your professional journey.During our 2nd quarter of 2024, connect with local officials from our city and county as we discuss about community initiatives, policies and opportunities for citizen involvement. You’ll have a chance to see City Hall, gain valuable insights into how our local government operates and how decisions are made.
Register Here
Kudzu Brands is excited to announce the finalists for our 2024 $10K Brand Giveaway. They include Appalachian Wildlife Refuge, Katherine Alexander Fine Jewelry, Silver Moon Custom Art & Photography, Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center, Western Carolina Medical Society, and WNC GEMS. Asheville’s top branding agency for growing businesses encourages community members to vote once daily for their favorite minority-owned business or non-profit organization from now until 11:59 pm on Friday, June 14.
Finalists must use their social media platforms to garner votes from the public. The WNC minority-owned business or non-profit organization with the most votes by June 14th will win a full branding package, including brand story development, logo design, and marketing collateral creation.
The contest timeline, rules, details, and updates are on Kudzu’s website, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. The link to vote can be found on the agency’s website and all social platforms.
Kudzu Brands has extensive experience helping businesses and non-profit 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 impactful.
Kudzu Brands is excited to announce the finalists for our 2024 $10K Brand Giveaway. They include Appalachian Wildlife Refuge, Katherine Alexander Fine Jewelry, Silver Moon Custom Art & Photography, Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center, Western Carolina Medical Society, and WNC GEMS. Asheville’s top branding agency for growing businesses encourages community members to vote once daily for their favorite minority-owned business or non-profit organization from now until 11:59 pm on Friday, June 14.
Finalists must use their social media platforms to garner votes from the public. The WNC minority-owned business or non-profit organization with the most votes by June 14th will win a full branding package, including brand story development, logo design, and marketing collateral creation.
The contest timeline, rules, details, and updates are on Kudzu’s website, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. The link to vote can be found on the agency’s website and all social platforms.
Kudzu Brands has extensive experience helping businesses and non-profit 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 impactful.
Kudzu Brands is excited to announce the finalists for our 2024 $10K Brand Giveaway. They include Appalachian Wildlife Refuge, Katherine Alexander Fine Jewelry, Silver Moon Custom Art & Photography, Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center, Western Carolina Medical Society, and WNC GEMS. Asheville’s top branding agency for growing businesses encourages community members to vote once daily for their favorite minority-owned business or non-profit organization from now until 11:59 pm on Friday, June 14.
Finalists must use their social media platforms to garner votes from the public. The WNC minority-owned business or non-profit organization with the most votes by June 14th will win a full branding package, including brand story development, logo design, and marketing collateral creation.
The contest timeline, rules, details, and updates are on Kudzu’s website, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. The link to vote can be found on the agency’s website and all social platforms.
Kudzu Brands has extensive experience helping businesses and non-profit 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 impactful.


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