Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Great Smoky Mountains, the Asheville area attracts newcomers for its astounding quality of life, low crime rate and welcoming entrepreneurial environment. Known for its culinary delights, history, architecture, natural settings and as a Mecca for adventure lovers, Asheville has something for everyone. 
Whether your ideal Asheville visit takes you gallery hopping on Broadway, antique shopping in Biltmore Village, trekking along the Appalachian Trail, or to a downtown show at a rock club named one of the top five in the country by Rolling Stone Magazine, the Asheville area has something guaranteed to delight every visitor. Don’t just take our word for it…experience it for yourself. 
Ask almost any Chamber member why they are a member and they’ll tell you—in Asheville, it’s the most important way to meet people and grow your business. As North Carolina’s third largest Chamber, the Asheville Chamber includes more than 2,000 businesses, organizations and coalitions. Members know the value a membership provides. Find out how members find value with the Asheville Chamber. 
Look at snapshots from Chamber events and view videos of Chamber programming and events. 
Meet and connect with the leadership team that sets goals and leads the activities of the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce. 
Young Professionals of Asheville (YPA) is a non-profit organization focused on connecting young professionals through community and social events. Get involved and learn more about opportunities for business networking, professional development, service through volunteering, leadership training and social events. 
Do you have questions about the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce? Are you wondering where we are located, what we do, or how to find photos of the Asheville area? We’ve listed answers to our most frequently asked questions here. 
The Asheville region has expertise in several dynamic talent driven industries. Local businesses, educational programs, and community leaders are working in collaboration to nurture and grow these targeted sectors. 
Many businesses are thriving in Asheville and yours could be next. Here are a few of the local businesses making headlines recently. 
Consider the Economic Development staff your one-stop resource for connecting to the Asheville community. Find a complete list of staff available to help you plan the next phase of your business. 
Asheville’s economy and industry is constantly evolving. Keep up to date on the latest industry announcements and plans here. Contact the EDC staff if your company has exciting news to share with the community. 
Recognize / Reward
“The Asheville Chamber of Commerce hosts a spirited community of small business owners and passionate leaders. The Chamber provides networking, marketing, and social opportunities for professionals to connect and refer business locally. At a minimal cost investment, it is an... [More]
– Jane Soboleski, Attorney at Law, Soboleski Law, PC
Finally the recognition you deserve. Far too often the impact of small businesses is over looked nationwide. Here in Asheville we know small businesses employ a significant portion of our community and we are proud to recognize those who make it happen.
Entrepreneur of the Month
At each month’s Chamber Board of Directors meeting, an outstanding local entrepreneur is honored with the Entrepreneur of the Month award. The business is presented a plaque to recognize their achievement. Do you know an entrepreneur deserving of recognition or are you a small business that is strong and growing? Contact Director of Entrepreneurship at 828.258.6116 for more nomination information.
Annual Meeting Awards
During the Chamber’s Annual Meeting the community recognizes outstanding leaders of our business community and welcomes new Chamber Board members and leadership.
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The ATHENA Award recognizes a man or woman who personifies the highest level of professional excellence in business and who has also assisted women in reaching their fullest potential. The award is designed to support the continued growth and development of working women in the greater Asheville area.
- The Excellence in Public Service award recognizes one outstanding senior management level individual that demonstrates lifelong service and exceptional leadership skills which have positively impacted the Asheville area.
- Good Health Good Business Award recognizes one outstanding senior management level individual in the Asheville business community. The recipient must demonstrate service and exceptional leadership which have resulted in improving the health of the Asheville community.
- The Small Business Leader of the Year Awards program recognizes two individuals who clearly reflect quality and dedication in the operation of business in the Asheville area and provide leadership accomplishments including innovation, initiative and civic responsiveness.
- The Volunteer of the Year Award recognizes a Chamber member who has given of his or her time and talents beyond the call of duty in volunteer efforts with the Chamber.
- The William A.V. Cecil Leadership Award recognizes senior management-level employees for leadership in the local hospitality industry. The recipient has displayed foresight, exceptional leadership skills and has impacted the Western North Carolina hospitality industry and the community as a whole.