Asheville -- July 14, 2026: Asheville's nationally recognized arts and crafts community is receiving a major economic boost following the launch of the Craft Catalyst Initiative, a new partnership between Etsy and the Center for Craft that will invest $10 million over the next three years in creative economies across the United States.
Asheville was selected as one of only five Craft Hubs chosen for the initiative, bringing new opportunities for local artists, makers, small businesses, and nonprofit organizations to expand their work while strengthening the region's economy.
Governor Josh Stein and First Lady Anna Stein joined officials from Etsy and the Center for Craft to announce the initiative, which also marks the beginning of their week in western North Carolina. During the visit, they are highlighting the state's ongoing Hurricane Helene recovery efforts while encouraging travelers to rediscover the region's communities, businesses, and attractions.
Governor Stein said Asheville has long been a center for art, entrepreneurship, and small business, adding that investments like the Craft Catalyst Initiative help strengthen western North Carolina while supporting communities recovering from Hurricane Helene.
First Lady Anna Stein said local artists are an essential part of the region's identity and economy. She noted that continued investment in the area's creative community will help attract visitors, generate business activity, and support local economies throughout western North Carolina.
The initiative is being administered through Asheville-based Center for Craft, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. Executive Director Stephanie Moore said the partnership comes at an important time, noting that handcrafted work and human creativity remain increasingly valuable in an age driven by artificial intelligence and digital technology. She said the investment will help strengthen creative careers while supporting the organizations and spaces that allow artists and craft communities to thrive.
Chelsea Mozen, Etsy's Head of Impact & Sustainability, said thriving craft communities preserve traditions while creating new opportunities for makers. She said the partnership will help ensure artisans have the support needed to grow their businesses, connect with customers, and sustain their work for future generations.
The Greater Asheville region is widely recognized as one of the nation's most concentrated craft communities. According to state officials, small businesses account for more than 99 percent of all North Carolina businesses and employ approximately 1.8 million people statewide, making continued investment in local entrepreneurs an important part of the state's economy.
The announcement also highlights North Carolina's broader commitment to helping western North Carolina recover from Hurricane Helene.
The Commercial District Revitalization Program is currently accepting applications through August 4, 2026, providing grants to local governments and nonprofit organizations working to revitalize business districts affected by the storm.
Earlier this year, the North Carolina Department of Commerce awarded nearly $8.5 million through its Small Business Infrastructure Grant Program (SmBIZ) to support 13 recovery projects across western North Carolina. Since the program began, nearly $30 million has been invested in rebuilding commercial districts and supporting small business recovery.
Recovery efforts also received another significant boost after Governor Stein signed Senate Bill 257, North Carolina's first complete state budget in more than two years. The legislation provides more than $700 million for Hurricane Helene recovery, including $2 million dedicated to promoting tourism throughout western North Carolina.
Governor Stein continues to seek additional federal assistance as well. During a recent visit to Washington, D.C., he advocated for a $10 billion federal recovery package to help rebuild housing, strengthen infrastructure, and provide additional support for small businesses affected by the storm.
Tourism remains a central part of the state's long-term recovery strategy. Earlier this year, Governor Stein visited North Carolina's ski resorts to highlight the mountain tourism industry, which generates more than $244 million annually and attracts approximately 780,000 visitors each year. He and First Lady Anna Stein also launched the "Rediscover the Unforgettable" campaign to encourage travelers to return to western North Carolina and support local businesses as recovery continues.
With Asheville now designated as one of Etsy's five national Craft Hubs, state leaders, business organizations, and arts advocates say the initiative represents a significant investment in one of western North Carolina's most important economic sectors. The partnership is expected to help strengthen small businesses, expand opportunities for local makers, and reinforce Asheville's reputation as one of America's leading destinations for craft and creativity.