FAQs
Does a non-profit have to be a member of the Chamber to win a grant?
A: Yes. Memberships help support the work of the Chamber and represent about 26% of our annual income. Because “collaboration” is one of our guiding principles, membership of the non-profit is important.
Membership offers many benefits for nonprofits, including opportunities to connect with potential partners, visibility, professional development and access to savings. Find out more and join online at www.ashevillechamber.org/join. Or, connect with Member Services to learn more about benefits: Tommy Dennison (828-258-6116 • tdennison@ashevillechamber.org) or Jessica Kanupp (828-507-8497 • jkanupp@ashevillechamber.org).
Q: How many grants will be awarded and when will the funds be received?
A: The Chamber will present the awards at its 125th Anniversary Celebration on Thursday, September 28th, 2023 at our office at 36 Montford Avenue. Our hope is to have at least 1,250 people in attendance. The total amount available to be given away will ultimately be determined by the number of tickets sold. Tickets are $125 each and are largely tax deductible. All net profits from the event will go to either the grants or to scholarships through People’s Community and Inclusion (PCI), a program of the Community Betterment Foundation to support diversifying Chamber membership.
Q: Are there other benefits for non-profits that win a grant?
A: Winners of grants will receive $10,000 (dependent on overall funds raised) as well as a profile in the Chamber’s communications channels (including e-newsletters, social media and on the Chamber’s website.) No-profits will receive a media kit with graphics, messaging and signage that can be used to publicize their award.
Q: Who makes the decisions about which non-profits will win the grants?
A: A committee of Chamber member leaders will assess the applications and score them. The public will also have the opportunity to vote for their organization of choice. The results of the popular vote and the committee assessments will be combined to finalize the winners.
Q: What are the criteria for awarding the grant?
A: The Chamber supports the economic growth and well-being of the community using the lens of business. Our work has included advocacy for issues like the affordability of housing, the availability of quality childcare, a robust transportation network, quality education, economic mobility, regional collaboration and a pragmatic approach to public policy. The Chamber houses Asheville and Buncombe County’s Economic Development Coalition which focuses on generating quality research, supporting the retention and expansion of existing businesses, the recruitment of quality jobs and the growth of the next headquartered company through entrepreneurship.
Successful grantees will show in their application that their work aligns with the Chamber’s strategic goals and demonstrate their appreciation of the importance of collaboration. You can learn more about the Chamber’s strategies at www.ashevillechamber.org/AVL5x5.