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How AI can support Asheville businesses
Our readers have been asking for more AI coverage — how it’s being used and where local opportunities are.
We rounded up a mix of practical, local resources — some free, some paid — worth knowing about.
If you’re just getting started
Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College offers an AI degree + certificate program with hands-on training in generative AI and tools.
The NC Small Business Center Network regularly hosts free workshops, like the Artificial Intelligence Series.
If you’re looking for practical business use cases
Regional training providers like Certstaffix Training offer AI for marketing, finance, and operations (paid, self-paced bundles).
Asheville’s Zfort Group offers AI consulting services for businesses looking to implement or scale AI.
A new study highlights strong potential for major tourism projects in Buncombe County — including a performing arts center and sports facilities. Why it matters: The county has ~$12 million in its LIFT Fund and another ~$12.3 million projected in its Tourism Product Development Fund. (Mountain Xpress)
Number
300. That’s the number of jobs power management company Eaton plans to add in Buncombe County, expanding its Arden and Avery Creek facilities.
Network
Pro tip: Use LinkedIn’s “Jobs” tab and filter by “in my network” to find roles at companies where you already have a connection. Another reason to build strong relationships like our own Grace Powers.
Community
FEMA is spending $26 million to buy 75 homes in WNC damaged by Hurricane Helene. The buyouts in Yancey, Henderson, and Polk Counties aim to reduce future flood risk while helping homeowners relocate from vulnerable areas. (Business NC)
Biz
What does it take to become a highly effective leader? Wake Forest Executive Education’s upcoming one-day workshops offer tools, tactics, and research-backed strategies to help working professionals uplevel their leadership. Sessions start April 30 — join WNC’s first cohort.*
Health
ECU Health is seeking state funding to reopen Martin General Hospital as North Carolina’s first Rural Emergency Hospital. The proposal faces a major hurdle as lawmakers weigh a $220 million funding request amidst ongoing budget negotiations. (North Carolina Health News)
Tech
Editor’s pick:Prompt Perfect. I don’t like to waste prompts, so this free extension is great for better results.
Plan Ahead
Hosting an event? Spread the word to our thousands of engaged subscribers. Explore our business promo portal to find the perfect fit for your budget — from standout banner ads to scroll-stopping social content.
Events
Agenda
Editor’s Pick
Civic Conversations: NC General Assembly | Wednesday, April 15 | 8:30-10:30 a.m. | Embassy Suites by Hilton Asheville Downtown | $30+ | A panel discussion with state legislators covering policy priorities + economic recovery.
1 Million Cups Asheville | Every Wednesday | 9-10 a.m. | Hatchworks Coworking | Free | A weekly startup pitch and networking event where entrepreneurs present ideas and receive feedback from the community.
56 College St., Suite 201 | 1,550 sqft | $4,069/month | Full-service downtown office with five private offices, large kitchen/break room, reception area, and mountain + city views.
Retail, for sale
2 E Market St. | 15,063 sq. ft. | $2,990,000
Fully leased neighborhood retail center in the Village of Cheshire with a diverse tenant mix and strong built-in customer base
330 Sweeten Creek Rd. | 1,959 sqft | $750,000 | High-visibility mixed-use property with retail space, residential unit, strong traffic exposure, and multiple income streams.
1010 S Garnett St., Henderson | ~13,800 sqft | $750,000 | Value-add redevelopment opportunity featuring a former hotel with additional units on a high-visibility, multi-parcel site.
Land, for sale
2100 Heart Dr. | ~1.0 acre | $325,000 | Commercially zoned industrial parcel in Ridgefield Business Center allowing a wide range of uses — including multifamily, retail, and light industrial.
My overall tip for AI users is to treat it like an enthusiastic intern: it’s great with structured guidance and really eager to please — but that can lead to inaccuracies or wasted research.
Then again, gen AI has come a long way from whatever this was.
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