We invite you to embark on a journey that transcends the ordinary. Our webinar, “Unlocking the Power of Scent: Aromatherapy through the Lens of Ayurveda,” is a gateway to a world where the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda meets the therapeutic art of aromatherapy. In this enriching two-hour live session with Ayurvedic physician Vasant Lad, BAM&S, MASc we will explore the profound connection between scent, healing, and whole mind-body balance. Discover how the therapeutic effects of smell can elevate your life, and gain the skills to incorporate these ancient sciences into your modern-day existence.
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.
Friday, April
19, 2024
Second Chance Workforce
Join us for a dynamic seminar on building a Second Chance & Recovery Friendly Workforce! Discover why it’s crucial for businesses and individuals to embrace this approach and how it can benefit everyone involved.
Learn about the legal considerations, tax credits, and compliance aspects that come with supporting a recovery-friendly workforce. Explore strategies for creating a supportive work environment, offering flexibility, and providing training to prevent and recognize challenges.
Unlock recruitment strategies tailored to attract and retain talented individuals from all backgrounds. Hear success stories firsthand and gain insights into accessing resources for your journey forward.
Our panelist discussion and Q&A session ensure you leave with actionable steps and a deeper understanding of this transformative approach. Don’t wait—secure your spot now!
This year’s Seminar Series are Sponsored by: Big Frog Custom T-Shirts and Apparel and First Citizen’s Bank.
Saturday, April
20, 2024
Sponsor a Tree for Arbor Day
She Slays 5K
Pilates – Online or In Person at the Library
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.
Uniting Communities: Inaugural She Slays 5K and One-Mile Fun Run Empowers Women
In a celebration of solidarity and empowerment, the inaugural She Slays 5K and One Mile Fun Run is set to kick off on April 20th, bringing together individuals from all walks of life to support the Women Helping Women program at UNC Health Pardee.
This exciting event aims to foster a sense of community while raising crucial funds for a program dedicated to uplifting and supporting women in need.
Participants of all ages and fitness levels are invited to lace up their running shoes and join in the festivities. Whether racing to beat personal records or strolling leisurely, everyone’s participation contributes to the greater cause of empowering women in our community.
Registration for this event is now open – Register for She Slays Now.
|
Join Alexis from Cisco Pilates Asheville for a free Pilates mat class! The class is beginner friendly. This will be offered in-person at Pack Library or from the comfort of your own home. You choose! To register for these classes, please go to: www.ciscopilates.com… These classes are offered to the public free of charge. We will have some yoga mats on hand for the in-person participants, but feel free to bring your own equipment and water bottle! If you have any questions, please call Jen at 828-250-4700 or email [email protected]. |
Sunday, April
21, 2024
Sponsor a Tree for Arbor Day
2nd Annual Back Alley Hempfest
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.
Back Alley Boutique & Bud Bar is hosting the 2nd Annual Back Alley Hempfest on Sunday 04/21/2024 from 2-7pm. Join us for this free event at 28 Oak St. and at the Depot Plaza right across Trade St. There will be live music, local vendors, live glass-blowing, fire-spinning, stilt-walking, and more! About 30 Local Vendors will be offering a wide variety of arts, crafts, gifts, & goodies! There will be a scavenger hunt to enter for door prizes scattered among the vendors with hourly prizes! There will also be a rolling competition & 420 special smoke session in the back Bud Bar & Lounge area of Back Alley Boutique & Bud Bar. Come check out all the festivities!
Music Schedule:
28 Oak St.
King Chewie 2-3:30pm
Nina Gi 3:45-5:15pm
Acklen Walker 5:30-7pm
Depot Plaza
Moonshine State 2-4pm
The Ribald Riffers 4:20-7pm
Thank You to our growing list of Sponsors!:
Tettra Hydra Glass, Astria Farm, Kaleidoscope Studios Art, Hypnotic Massage Sleep Boutique, Yetees Design Screenprinting, Carrie Bass Photography, eARThly Minds Gallery, Social Shay Photography, The Moth Queen, and Back Alley Boutique & Bud Bar.
Tuesday, April
23, 2024
Sponsor a Tree for Arbor Day
Hire Talents Career Fair
Business + Professional Women’s Luncheon
FREE Chamber Challenge Trainings
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.
Join us at the Greenville Convention Center for HireSouthCarolina Multi-School Alumni Career Fair! Connect with top employers from diverse industries including Fortune 500, startups, and government agencies. All majors, degrees, and career levels welcome. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore job prospects and network with leading organizations seeking full-time salaried employees.
Join us for a special event, where guest will have the opportunity of hearing from Molly Grantham , Anchor, Author, Speaker and Mom. Following her inspiring words, we will proudly present the 17th Annual Henderson County ATHENA Award in memory of Vanessa Mintz.
$60 | Individual
$600 | Table of 8
Check In Begins at 11:00 AM
Program Begins at 11:30 AM
Register Here
| with YMCA Begin Tuesday, March 19th |
| Join us for Chamber Challenge training designed for ALL fitness levels with YMCA Personal Trainer Suzanne Ion beginning next Tuesday, March 19th!
These free sessions will be held Tuesdays at 5:30 PM through April 23rd at the Asheville Chamber (36 Montford Avenue). The last session will be a preview run/walk of the actual Chamber Challenge 5k course beginning at the Chamber, winding through historic Montford and finishing in the parking lot once again. These training sessions are open to anyone – whether you’ve registered to participate in the event or not! We recommend you bring your own water bottle. The doors to the Visitor Center will be open 5:00 – 5:30 PM on training days so you can come in to get water and/or use the restroom! Meet in the parking lot in front of the building. Thank you to our Training Partner – the YMCA of Western North Carolina!
Our trainer for the second consecutive year is Suzanne Ion, a sixth generation native of Hawaii who grew up on the island of Maui and in the north Georgia mountains. Whether this is your first 5k or your 500th, you’ll be in good hands with Suzanne. No stranger to health challenges, she lost over 70 lbs. after a debilitating illness with a commitment to interval cross training and a determination to teach again. Her motto is “Someday I will not be able to do this. Today is not that day.” She was the only girl on an all-boys soccer team, ran track in high school, and was a basketball cheerleader and member of the drill team/dance corps in high school and college. Suzanne has Three Star Elite Instructor status for spinning and has continued her fitness education with group exercise certifications through AFFA, ACE, TRX, Silver Sneakers, Mat Pilates, and Tabata Boot Camp. An active participant in 5k’s, 10k’s, half and full marathons, she achieved a Top 20 overall women’s finish at the Lake Tahoe marathon. Whether it’s scuba diving, kayaking, sup, hiking, or glacier climbs, Suzanne is always ready for a challenge. |
Thursday, April
25, 2024
ASAP: How Does Western North Carolina Shop for Food SURVEY
Sponsor a Tree for Arbor Day
Business After Hours
“The Last Ecstatic Days” Film Screening and Discussion
ASAP (Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project) has released a survey to learn more about how people in Western North Carolina shop for food and why they choose the food they do. The survey, part of a three-year project by ASAP’s Local Food Research Center, is for any resident of Western North Carolina over the age of 18, no matter where or how they shop for food. It can be completed online at surveymonkey.com/r/WNCFoodASAP or over the phone by calling ASAP at 828-236-1282. It should take approximately 8 to 12 minutes to complete and will be open through Oct. 31, 2024. Respondents are encouraged to share the survey widely with families, friends, and co-workers.
“By completing this survey, you are helping local farmers understand and connect with consumers,” said Amy Marion, ASAP Associate Director and lead researcher. “The challenges of our food system are constantly evolving. Improving it requires active participation from all community members. With this research we can better understand consumer values and the barriers they face, and help farmers and food producers improve communications with their customers and their communities.”
The survey is part of a three-year research project, “Connections in Direct Markets: Assessing the feedback loop between consumer values and farmers’ marketing strategies,” which will examine and improve communication and alignment between farmers and consumers in Western North Carolina. The research phase will also employ consumer focus groups, farmer interviews and case studies, and more targeted surveying. The broad consumer survey provides an update to the last consumer survey conducted by the Local Food Research Center in 2014. Results from the current research project will be shared in 2025.
ASAP founded the Local Food Research Center in 2011 to study the economic, environmental, and social impacts of localizing food systems. From its inception, ASAP’s programs and services have been grounded in research and evaluation, adjusting based on a strong feedback loop and observation of current conditions in the food system.
This project is supported in part by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, U.S. Department of Agriculture, under award number 2022-38640-37488 through the Southern Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program under subaward number LS23-382. USDA is an equal opportunity employer and service provider.
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.
Mark Your Calendars and Seize the Opportunity to Build Great Connections!
Experience the Chamber’s Business After Hours – an event designed for real connections and genuine conversations. Mix and mingle with fellow professionals and broaden you network, meet potential clients and create a new referral source!
Enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with fantastic food and beverages, courtesy of our monthly host sponsor, with the chance to win fabulous door prizes – a perfect blend of business and enjoyment!
Plus don’t miss the chance to try your luck in our 50/50 raffle!
No cost to attend, just pre-register.
April’s Host is Coldwell Banker Advantage!
Register Here!
On Thursday, April 25, 2024, Stillpoint Wellness will host an in-person screening of “The Last Ecstatic Days.” Doors will open at 5:30 and the screening will begin at 6:00 pm.
After the screening will be a community discussion facilitated by Tiffany Sauls and Tandy Wells, which will wrap around 8:00 – 8:30 pm.
Come early to find parking!
Friday, April
26, 2024
ASAP: How Does Western North Carolina Shop for Food SURVEY
Free Healthy Workplace Culture Workshop
Dance your way to health with Zumba Gold
ASAP (Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project) has released a survey to learn more about how people in Western North Carolina shop for food and why they choose the food they do. The survey, part of a three-year project by ASAP’s Local Food Research Center, is for any resident of Western North Carolina over the age of 18, no matter where or how they shop for food. It can be completed online at surveymonkey.com/r/WNCFoodASAP or over the phone by calling ASAP at 828-236-1282. It should take approximately 8 to 12 minutes to complete and will be open through Oct. 31, 2024. Respondents are encouraged to share the survey widely with families, friends, and co-workers.
“By completing this survey, you are helping local farmers understand and connect with consumers,” said Amy Marion, ASAP Associate Director and lead researcher. “The challenges of our food system are constantly evolving. Improving it requires active participation from all community members. With this research we can better understand consumer values and the barriers they face, and help farmers and food producers improve communications with their customers and their communities.”
The survey is part of a three-year research project, “Connections in Direct Markets: Assessing the feedback loop between consumer values and farmers’ marketing strategies,” which will examine and improve communication and alignment between farmers and consumers in Western North Carolina. The research phase will also employ consumer focus groups, farmer interviews and case studies, and more targeted surveying. The broad consumer survey provides an update to the last consumer survey conducted by the Local Food Research Center in 2014. Results from the current research project will be shared in 2025.
ASAP founded the Local Food Research Center in 2011 to study the economic, environmental, and social impacts of localizing food systems. From its inception, ASAP’s programs and services have been grounded in research and evaluation, adjusting based on a strong feedback loop and observation of current conditions in the food system.
This project is supported in part by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, U.S. Department of Agriculture, under award number 2022-38640-37488 through the Southern Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program under subaward number LS23-382. USDA is an equal opportunity employer and service provider.
A healthy workplace culture can be the difference between hitting your goals and missing the mark. It can be a determining benefit that supports strong retention rates and serves as a competitive advantage.
But what is culture and how do you build it? We’ll cover this and much more!
Join us on April 26, 2024, for an interactive workshop at Continuum in downtown Hendersonville, NC from 9:00 am – 3:00 pm.
Sign up now to reserve your seat and receive the full event details.
Zumba Gold is a low-impact class recommended for seniors or people just getting started or getting back to exercise. This class is taught by Trish Howey, a senior Zumba instructor with years of experience. Zumba Gold uses Latin and Pop music with choreography to increase strength for body, brain, and balance. The goal is to be fit and to have FUN while exercising. Base strength is recommended.
Space is limited so registration is required.
Saturday, April
27, 2024
Sponsor a Tree for Arbor Day
Equine Yoga + Trail Ride with Cathy Woods
Breakthrough Breathwork Meditation Workshop with Sound Baths
Hybrid: Unlock the Power of Scent: Aromatherapy in Ayurveda
World Tai Chi Day + Qigong Day
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.
Join Cathy Woods, Author of “Yoga for Riders,” creator of Body, Mind, Equine™ and international presenter, for a retreat day of yoga, equestrian mindfulness, and trail riding at Tryon International Equestrian Center located in beautiful Western North Carolina.
Embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and inner healing through our groundbreaking Breathwork Meditation Workshop including 2 Sound Baths! During this immersive experience you will be guided through a powerful Breathwork practice to help you massively release stress, heal past wounds and traumas, access deeper levels of awareness, and connect more profoundly to Source.
Led by two professional highly experienced facilitators with over 50 years experience between them, this workshop will
deepen your connection with your breath and unlock its incredible potential for physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Join a group of like-minded individuals on the path to self-discovery in a supportive nurturing environment on the beautiful island in Marshall on one of the world’s oldest rivers.
You may come to the full day (10am-4.30pm, $120 ) which includes two Breathwork Meditation Sessions with sound baths and a session of Self-discovery. You may also come to the first Breathwork Meditation Session with sound bath only (10am-1pm, $60) or the second Breathwork Session with sound bath only (1.30pm-4.30pm, $60).
Register at www.breakthroughbreathwork.com/events
In this transformative webinar, you will explore the essence of gandha (Sanskrit for smell) and the profound impact it holds from an Ayurvedic perspective. Together, we will explore a range of herbal and essential oils used in aromatherapy, unlocking the wisdom to discern when and how to use them, tailored to your unique dosha – Vata, Pitta, or Kapha. By the end of this session, you will possess a deeper understanding of the therapeutic potential of scent and how it can enhance your well-being.
What you will learn in this webinar is not just knowledge; it’s the power to heal, rejuvenate, and elevate your consciousness through the wisdom of Ayurveda and aromatherapy.
Topics we will cover in this webinar
In this webinar, we’ll embark on a transformative exploration together:
Gain insight into the profound concept of Ganda and how it influences your senses and overall well-being.
Explore the world of herbal and essential oils, learning when and how to use them to restore balance based on your dosha.
Discover the ancient Tanmatra philosophy and how it shapes your sensory experiences.
Engage in interactive discussions and Q&A sessions with our knowledgeable instructors.
World Tai Chi Day & Qigong Day!
ALL are welcome at this FREE event that is open to the public on April 27th. You’ll meet up with others at the Carrier Park pavilion. Classes will be held from 10am – 3pm. This event is to help introduce new people to the various forms of Tai Chi, or Taiji, practice. Learn why the ancient form of Tai Chi offers benefits for everyone- no experience necessary.
Sunday, April
28, 2024
ASAP: How Does Western North Carolina Shop for Food SURVEY
Celebrate National Small Business Week: Virtual Summit
Sponsor a Tree for Arbor Day
ASAP (Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project) has released a survey to learn more about how people in Western North Carolina shop for food and why they choose the food they do. The survey, part of a three-year project by ASAP’s Local Food Research Center, is for any resident of Western North Carolina over the age of 18, no matter where or how they shop for food. It can be completed online at surveymonkey.com/r/WNCFoodASAP or over the phone by calling ASAP at 828-236-1282. It should take approximately 8 to 12 minutes to complete and will be open through Oct. 31, 2024. Respondents are encouraged to share the survey widely with families, friends, and co-workers.
“By completing this survey, you are helping local farmers understand and connect with consumers,” said Amy Marion, ASAP Associate Director and lead researcher. “The challenges of our food system are constantly evolving. Improving it requires active participation from all community members. With this research we can better understand consumer values and the barriers they face, and help farmers and food producers improve communications with their customers and their communities.”
The survey is part of a three-year research project, “Connections in Direct Markets: Assessing the feedback loop between consumer values and farmers’ marketing strategies,” which will examine and improve communication and alignment between farmers and consumers in Western North Carolina. The research phase will also employ consumer focus groups, farmer interviews and case studies, and more targeted surveying. The broad consumer survey provides an update to the last consumer survey conducted by the Local Food Research Center in 2014. Results from the current research project will be shared in 2025.
ASAP founded the Local Food Research Center in 2011 to study the economic, environmental, and social impacts of localizing food systems. From its inception, ASAP’s programs and services have been grounded in research and evaluation, adjusting based on a strong feedback loop and observation of current conditions in the food system.
This project is supported in part by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, U.S. Department of Agriculture, under award number 2022-38640-37488 through the Southern Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program under subaward number LS23-382. USDA is an equal opportunity employer and service provider.
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.
Monday, April
29, 2024
ASAP: How Does Western North Carolina Shop for Food SURVEY
Celebrate National Small Business Week: Virtual Summit
ASAP (Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project) has released a survey to learn more about how people in Western North Carolina shop for food and why they choose the food they do. The survey, part of a three-year project by ASAP’s Local Food Research Center, is for any resident of Western North Carolina over the age of 18, no matter where or how they shop for food. It can be completed online at surveymonkey.com/r/WNCFoodASAP or over the phone by calling ASAP at 828-236-1282. It should take approximately 8 to 12 minutes to complete and will be open through Oct. 31, 2024. Respondents are encouraged to share the survey widely with families, friends, and co-workers.
“By completing this survey, you are helping local farmers understand and connect with consumers,” said Amy Marion, ASAP Associate Director and lead researcher. “The challenges of our food system are constantly evolving. Improving it requires active participation from all community members. With this research we can better understand consumer values and the barriers they face, and help farmers and food producers improve communications with their customers and their communities.”
The survey is part of a three-year research project, “Connections in Direct Markets: Assessing the feedback loop between consumer values and farmers’ marketing strategies,” which will examine and improve communication and alignment between farmers and consumers in Western North Carolina. The research phase will also employ consumer focus groups, farmer interviews and case studies, and more targeted surveying. The broad consumer survey provides an update to the last consumer survey conducted by the Local Food Research Center in 2014. Results from the current research project will be shared in 2025.
ASAP founded the Local Food Research Center in 2011 to study the economic, environmental, and social impacts of localizing food systems. From its inception, ASAP’s programs and services have been grounded in research and evaluation, adjusting based on a strong feedback loop and observation of current conditions in the food system.
This project is supported in part by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, U.S. Department of Agriculture, under award number 2022-38640-37488 through the Southern Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program under subaward number LS23-382. USDA is an equal opportunity employer and service provider.
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!
Tuesday, April
30, 2024
Celebrate National Small Business Week: Virtual Summit
Sponsor a Tree for Arbor Day
Adult Mental Health Series: Communication 101
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.
Want to learn more about managing depression and nervous energy? Got questions about medications or emotional implications of chronic illness? Join Vaya Health’s Geriatric and Adult Mental Health Specialty team for a series of classes at the Enka-Candler and Leicester Libraries
Classes are free to attend, but registration is required. Please visit the Vaya Health calendar to register. Everyone is welcome.
Communication is the string that ties us all together. If that string isn’t strong enough or is broken, relationships tend to unravel. Effective communication cultivates strong relationships and supports one’s voice being heard. This curriculum is designed to look at ways to neutralize barriers and methods to enhance clear, concise, and deliberate exchanges.