Hurricane Helene Business Feedback Survey launches to assess recovery progress and ongoing needs
ASHEVILLE, NC (Sept. 24, 2025) – Businesses of all sizes and industries across Western North Carolina are encouraged to respond to a collaborative survey facilitated by Riverbird Research on the impacts of Hurricane Helene on their business.
The Hurricane Helene Business Feedback Survey is being conducted one year after the storm to better understand recovery progress and on-going needs.
This collaborative survey is a partnership of the Asheville Chamber of Commerce’s Riverbird Research, Buncombe County, the City of Asheville, Land of Sky Regional Council, Explore Asheville, and the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC). The General Assembly tasked the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC) with conducting a business loss and needs assessment to help inform federal and state policy for relief and recovery, as local agencies and partners work together across Western North Carolina to address immediate and long-term business needs.
Any business with a presence in Western North Carolina can take the survey. This includes businesses in any industry and of all sizes (from solopreneurs to national/international companies with operations in WNC) as well as businesses that may have closed post-Helene.
“Whether your organization was severely affected, still recovering, fully recovered or largely unaffected, your input on this brief survey will provide valuable insight to inform regional recovery efforts and planning,” said Heidi Reiber, Senior Director of Research at Riverbird Research, a division of the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce.
“This follow-up survey will deepen our understanding of how Western North Carolina businesses are navigating the ongoing effects of Hurricane Helene,” said EDPNC’s CEO, Christopher Chung. “By sharing their experiences, business owners provide critical insight to help regional, state, and federal partners shape resources and policies that address the real needs on the ground.”
To respond to the survey, visit www.ashevillechamber.org/helenesurvey.
About Riverbird Research
Riverbird Research, established by the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce, is an award-winning team with over 25 years of combined experience in data and systems analysis. The Riverbird Research team leverages well-informed expertise in labor market data, demographic analysis, economic research, and economic impact analysis to communicate regional assets and opportunities. Learn more at www.riverbirdresearch.com.
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