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.
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:
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Action-driven content that can be applied to your business immediately.
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Expert business advice to help you navigate your business journey.
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Downloadable business resources to collect for future use.
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Networking opportunities to connect with business owners from across the country.
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 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.
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!
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 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!
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!
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 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.
DSSOLVR PRESENTS:
ROBERT’S TOTALLY RAD TRIVIA
Every Monday, at 7:00 PM, come on down
Trivia with Billy
prizes and more
Hosted by the witty & sagacious Jason Mencer, our epic pub trivia night runs every Monday from 7:30-9:30pm! Plus $5.00 well drinks all night!
Come test your brain power with tasty pub fare, an adult beverage or two — and a team of your smartest friends! Win prizes each round and crow a little about what a smarty-pants you are!
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.
When someone asks if you want to hear a fun fact, is your response “Heck yeah”? Congratulations, nerd! There’s an event just for you! Join us at The River Arts District Brewing Company for a night of outrageously fun facts and tasty beverages.
Nerd Nite is a monthly event held in 100+ cities around the world featuring fun-yet-informative presentations across a variety of subjects.
May Lineup:
– A Seasonal Tale of Honey Bee Foragers (Knox Petrucci)
– Help wanted! Seeing Plant Stress from the Sky (Douglas Yuhan Rao)
– Cultural References in Disney’s Moana (Tavi–featuring a live fire performance, weather permitting!)
Plus your host Von’s mini feature: SAVE LOWER DECKS!
Pre-sale tickets available now! https://events.humanitix.com/nerd-nite-asheville-may
Read full descriptions of this month’s presentations on our website, asheville.nerdnite.com
Doors 6pm, show 7pm sharp. Early arrival strongly recommended. Pre-sale tickets $10, door $15. 21+. RAD Brewing Co. 13 Mystery St, Asheville, NC 28801
Food truck, freshly brewed drinks, and free popcorn! Be there and be square!
(lineup subject to change)
DSSOLVR PRESENTS:
ROBERT’S TOTALLY RAD TRIVIA
Every Monday, at 7:00 PM, come on down
Trivia with Billy
prizes and more
Hosted by the witty & sagacious Jason Mencer, our epic pub trivia night runs every Monday from 7:30-9:30pm! Plus $5.00 well drinks all night!
Come test your brain power with tasty pub fare, an adult beverage or two — and a team of your smartest friends! Win prizes each round and crow a little about what a smarty-pants you are!
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
FREE fun, FREE parking! End your weekend with a bang and still be in bed on time for Monday morning to hit! FREE parking! Ages 21+ Step into a world of fabulous fun and fierce competition with our Trivia and Games featuring the one and only drag queen sensation, Divine! Join us for unforgettable laughter, entertainment, and brain-teasing challenges as Divine herself hosts a spectacular blend of trivia questions and interactive games. With her charismatic charm and larger-than-life personality, Divine will guide you through a trivial experience that will leave you clutching your sides with laughter and vying for the coveted title of trivia champion. It’s time to unleash your inner diva and let the games begin!
DSSOLVR PRESENTS:
ROBERT’S TOTALLY RAD TRIVIA
Every Monday, at 7:00 PM, come on down
Trivia with Billy
prizes and more
Hosted by the witty & sagacious Jason Mencer, our epic pub trivia night runs every Monday from 7:30-9:30pm! Plus $5.00 well drinks all night!
Come test your brain power with tasty pub fare, an adult beverage or two — and a team of your smartest friends! Win prizes each round and crow a little about what a smarty-pants you are!
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.
DSSOLVR PRESENTS:
ROBERT’S TOTALLY RAD TRIVIA
Every Monday, at 7:00 PM, come on down
Trivia with Billy
prizes and more