The Venture 15 earned a combined annual revenue of more than $23 million, and their combined lifetime revenue is $57+ million. They employ 296 people, and anticipate hiring 138 more employees in 2026.
Level | 148.44%
The tech company helps IT professionals remotely manage and monitor their Windows, macOS, and Linux endpoints.
Sourhouse | 141.33%
Sourdough baking is simpler with the help of the brand’s expertly designed tools, like the Goldie, which keeps starter active.
18 Chestnuts | 141.01%
Gourmet flavors are packed into each jar of these nourishing, plant-based soups.
Fuel Goods | 114.92%
The sports nutrition company delivers curated subscription boxes for athletes, filled with items like gels, bars, and recovery drinks.
12 Bars of Christmas | Monday, Dec. 15-Wednesday, Dec. 31 | 12 a.m.-10 p.m. | The Funkatorium | Free | Grab a Christmas Passport from The Funkatorium (or any participating bar), and get stamped at all 12 bars to receive a 2025 limited-edition keepsake ornament (while supplies last).*
Mission Surgery’s team of experienced surgeons work to provide comprehensive care, focusing on each patient’s unique needs for optimal outcomes. | Photo provided by Mission Health
Mission Health performs more procedures than any other hospital system in the region, offering 40+ surgical options in Asheville. From hernia repair to surgical oncology, the team utilizes minimally invasive and robotic-assisted techniques when possible.
With a multidisciplinary approach, Mission Health provides comprehensive surgical services close to home, providing patients with services they need without leaving the region.
$2 million. That’s how much WellCare NC donated to BeLoved Asheville to support the development of a new BeLoved Village in Swannanoa. The nonprofit will break ground on the 18-house affordable neighborhood in the spring and hopes to welcome families by the end of 2026. (WLOS)
Health
Tomorrow at 10 a.m. at A-B Tech’s Ferguson Auditorium, the NC Department of Health and Human Services will hold a public hearing on four hospital systems’ expansion plans in Buncombe County. Hear each plan as the systems each vie for the certificate of need to add 129 acute care beds.
Trending
Google’s 2025 Year in Search is out, and its local search function provides an interesting peek into our city’s queries. It appears Asheville had a particular interest in Taylor Swift’s song “Wood” and the meaning of “67.” We’re still trying to figure out the meaning ourselves.
Cause
This Thursday, Dec. 18, MANNA FoodBank is hosting a Holiday Food Distribution event to support families across WNC with ingredients for a special meal. Learn how to support the food bank as it experiences an all-time high in visitation.
Number
$1+ billion. That’s how much Helene recovery funding WNC has received from FEMA, according to a press release from the agency. In the most recent round, $33 million was distributed for 44 projects, with the largest sum of $7.7 million being used to rebuild the Asheville Municipal Golf Course.
Eat
Aw schucks. Wicked Weed will celebrate 13 years with a special anniversary oyster roast on Sunday, Dec. 28 at 3 p.m. Expect fresh-shucked oysters, freezing cold martinis, tunes from the Hot Bread Selectors, and of course, plenty of brews.
You’re smart — but your spending can still be dumb. These are the 11 dumbest things smart people waste money on.*
Jobs
“The process is super easy and far more cost-effective than using a recruiter.” That’s what one business owner said about hiring through our Job Board. See for yourself — post your open positions for free.
Event Spotlight
Glow with the flow
Show off your creativity with a homemade lantern. | Photo via Light The Night AVL
Light the Night AVL is making a return on Saturday, Dec. 20 for a winter solstice lantern walk through the RAD. The event was created by local artist Liberty Hanson-Wild last year after Helene.
“Light the Night began from a desire to bring light and hope to our community during a challenging time,” says Hanson-Wild. “This walk invites us to pause, gather in solidarity, and celebrate the joy, creativity, and light that shine so brightly in this community.”
Bring your lanterns to a pre-walk gathering at Marquee at 5 p.m. before setting off down Foundy Street and down the greenway — the walk with end with a community song and the opportunity to write messages on ribbons, which will become part of an art installation honoring Asheville’s inner strength and ingenuity.
The Buy
Fresh, small-batch coffee from Trade. Take the quiz + get matched with coffee blends that align with your tastes and preferences. Bonus: Our readers get an exclusive 50% off their first month subscription — no code necessary.
OWL Bakery has started the OWL Community Fund, ensuring everyone can enjoy its divine desserts and pastries regardless of funds. Get the deets on how to contribute and brighten someone’s day with a morning bun.
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