A Preview of the 2025 Asheville Business Summit
The Asheville Business Summit is back and bigger than ever. Now in its third year, this event has become a must-attend for local professionals, entrepreneurs, and teams looking to grow, connect, and be inspired. We caught up with co-founder Beth Lemmel to learn more about this year’s vision – and why now’s the time to grab your tickets.
What is the Asheville Business Summit, and how did it get started?
The Asheville Business Summit was born out of a desire to create a space for businesses to connect, grow, and be inspired. In 2022, co-founders Beth Lemmel and Bill Gilliland of ActionCOACH organized a last-minute event that drew 100 attendees hungry for connection and learning after the pandemic. That initial spark turned into something much bigger. By 2024, the Summit had grown to 350 attendees, world-class speakers, and strong community partnerships. Now entering its third year, the 2025 Summit is poised to be the most impactful yet.
What makes this year’s Summit special?
This year marks a powerful moment for Asheville’s business community. As we near one year since Hurricane Helene, the 2025 Asheville Business Summit will bring together up to 500 attendees at the Diana Wortham Theatre for a day of reconnection, exploration, and forward-thinking conversation. In addition to eight sessions with top-notch speakers, the event includes two bonus gatherings: a free kickoff party downtown and a ticketed VIP dinner at Highland Brewing featuring Leah Wong Ashburn. With a focus on resilience, innovation, and community, the Summit is more than a conference – it’s a catalyst for progress.
How can people get involved now?
Tickets are on sale at wncsummit.com, and early bird pricing ends in early August – so don’t wait! Group tickets are also available for teams of four or more. Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur, part of a small business, or leading a larger team, this is your chance to invest in growth, right here in Western North Carolina.
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