ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — A three-day business summit in Asheville later this month will bring together entrepreneurs, coaches and community leaders for workshops, networking and support aimed at helping local businesses move from “surviving to thriving.”
The Asheville Business Summit, organized by Action Coach Asheville and founder Bill Gilliland, kicks off with a rooftop networking event at Capella 9, followed by a VIP reception at Highlands. The main event is scheduled for Sept. 23 at the Diana Wortham Theatre, with a goal of drawing up to 500 attendees.
Organizers said the summit will feature speakers, workshops and discussions on strategies to help small businesses adapt after challenges such as Tropical Storm Helene and economic shifts in the region.
“This is about building unity in the business community, learning from each other and helping each other through difficult times,” organizer Jason De Los Santos said. “Sometimes the most valuable part of these events is finding someone who understands what you’re going through.”
Keynote speakers will take an unconventional approach with an improv presentation focused on adaptability, creativity and finding resilience in the face of unexpected disruptions.
Grace in Action, a fund of Grace Presbyterian Church that provides emergency rental and housing assistance, will serve as the summit’s community partner. Organizers said proceeds from the event will be donated to the fund, which has distributed more than $120,000 in aid since Helene.
Last year’s event drew nearly 300 people, with most tickets sold in the final weeks. As of this week, about 110 tickets had been sold.
“We’re working hard to spread the word,” De Los Santos said. “Our hope is to create a space where everyone—from those doing well to those starting over—feels welcome.”