The Sky High Awards recognize businesses that are reaching new heights. Companies that are growing, innovating, overcoming challenges, and making our community stronger along the way.
In recognition of perseverance and determination in addressing business challenges
Elope Asheville
Elope Asheville pioneered a new tourism niche for Western North Carolina while building a business rooted in creativity and community. Over the last year, owner Jon-Paul Brown has gained full ownership of the company and reinvigorated their goal of creating unforgettable experiences.
McHone Performance Training
After Hurricane Helene flooded its facility with more than nine feet of water, McHone Performance Training refused to give up. Through determination and overwhelming community support, the team rebuilt quickly and emerged stronger while continuing to serve Asheville’s active community.
Provisions Mercantile
After losing its Biltmore Village location during Hurricane Helene, Provisions Mercantile turned adversity into opportunity by championing Asheville-made products and supporting more than 40 local vendors — helping strengthen both its business and the local maker community.
Reems Creek Nursery
Reems Creek Nursery demonstrated resilience through weather challenges and post-storm disruption by investing in employees, strengthening operations, and continuing to serve customers during recovery — positioning the business for renewed growth and lasting community impact.
In recognition of business innovation and creativity
Craft HR Solutions
Craft HR Solutions is redefining what modern HR consulting can look like through original leadership research, innovative training programs, and intentional investment in people. Their forward-thinking approach is creating meaningful impact for businesses throughout the region.
Western North Carolina Farmers Market
The Western North Carolina Farmers Market continues evolving through creative programming, educational outreach, agritourism promotion and innovative vendor support. By blending tradition with modern engagement strategies, the Market strengthens connections between farmers, businesses and the broader community.
Matcha Nude
Matcha Nude has transformed matcha into an approachable lifestyle brand through creative storytelling, modern branding and community-centered wellness education. The company has introduced an entirely fresh perspective to the growing wellness marketplace.
In recognition of outstanding achievements and contributions to the Asheville area economy
Sugar Hollow Solar
Sugar Hollow Solar continues to reach new heights through workforce expansion, operational growth and leadership in renewable energy. By expanding commercial services, increasing access to solar and battery solutions, and embracing emerging technologies, they are helping build a more sustainable and energy-resilient future for the region.
SOS – Senior Oral-health Services
SOS Senior Oral Health Services has steadily expanded its innovative mobile healthcare model, increasing staff, facilities served, and community awareness. By bringing preventive oral healthcare directly to seniors, SOS is improving health outcomes for vulnerable populations across Western North Carolina.
MAHEC
MAHEC continues expanding healthcare access, medical education, and behavioral health services across Western North Carolina — helping shape the future of healthcare for communities throughout the region. Founded 52 years ago to address a critical shortage of healthcare providers, MAHEC has doubled their number of employees in the last ten years and is one of the largest nonprofit employers in WNC.
FIRSTwnc
FIRSTwnc has achieved meaningful growth by expanding programs, staffing, diversified funding and long-term infrastructure to better serve children and adults with disabilities and special health care needs. Through increased services and strategic partnerships, FIRSTwnc continues building a stronger and more inclusive future for families across the region.
In recognition of outstanding contributions to the community
Virtelle Hospitality
Virtelle Hospitality demonstrated extraordinary community leadership during Hurricane Helene by housing first responders, utility crews, and displaced residents throughout the recovery effort. The company showed how hospitality can help stabilize and support a community during crisis.
Best Buy Metals
Best Buy Metals stands out for its service-first philosophy and deep commitment to neighbors across Western North Carolina. Best Buy consistently supports schools, nonprofits, veterans, and recovery efforts throughout the community.
The Matt & Molly Team
The Matt & Molly Team has built a business centered on relationships, connection, and community support. Through sponsorships, local partnerships, arts support, and consistent engagement across the region, the team continues investing in the people and experiences that strengthen our community.
White Horse Black Mountain
White Horse Black Mountain has become far more than a music venue — it serves as a cultural and community anchor for the Swannanoa Valley. Following Hurricane Helene, White Horse transformed into a relief hub, gathering space, and source of connection, healing and support. AND they raised over $300,000 for hurricane relief.