In a milestone for Asheville’s business community, Givens Communities sponsored the inaugural Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce Black Business Alliance Award, underscoring a shared commitment to equity, opportunity, and inclusive economic growth across Western North Carolina.
The award was presented on stage by Kevin Schwab, CEO of Givens Communities alongside Ava Smith, Chamber Board member and leader at Flat Fee Recruiting, during a ceremony that celebrated the achievements and impact of Black-owned businesses in the region.
“We are proud to sponsor the first Black Business Alliance Award because we share the vision of creating equality and removing barriers to provide opportunity for all fortunate enough to call Asheville and Western North Carolina home,” Schwab said during the presentation. “I’m honored to present the Chamber’s first-ever Black-Owned Business of the Year Award, an initiative of the Chamber’s Black Business Alliance.”
Smith reflected on the significance of the Black Business Alliance, which officially launched earlier this year, calling it a vital step forward for the community. “It’s an important symbol of the Chamber’s commitment to inclusive economic development,” she said. “Our goal is to create more opportunity for Black-owned businesses to grow and thrive in Buncombe County. One of the biggest ways we do that is by building relationships. I invite all of you to join us for programs.”
Interested in learning more about community impact and organizations making a difference? Visit the Givens Foundation at https://givensphilanthropy.org/news/