Asheville -- January 18, 2026: Asheville small business landscape enters 2026 with a shift in focus from immediate recovery to long-term economic growth. Local leaders and business owners are pointing to a combination of rising tourism forecasts, major event returns, and strategic workforce investments as the primary drivers for the year ahead.
During recent economic briefings, Explore Asheville and local officials reported a positive outlook for visitor spending, which is projected to grow by more than 5 percent this year. This growth is expected to contribute nearly 3 billion dollars to the local economy, providing a much-needed boost for the shops, restaurants, and galleries that form the backbone of the city. As of January 2026, more than 75 percent of the area's travel and hospitality partners have fully reopened, signaling a return to operational stability across the region.
The return of marquee events is a significant part of this momentum. After more than 80 years, the PGA Tour returns to the area with the Biltmore Championship this September. Tourism officials expect thousands of spectators, which will translate into millions of dollars in direct spending at local businesses. Additionally, the Biltmore Estate is launching a major immersive light and sound experience called Luminere, running from March through October, which is anticipated to draw record crowds to the region.
New ventures are already responding to this increased demand. Notable openings and expansions for 2026 include the relocation of Asheville Biscuit Shop to a larger downtown space and the opening of Gemelli in Biltmore Village this February. In the River Arts District, the new Ace and Eagle social club and the continued expansion of creative studios show a district that is not only rebuilding but evolving.
Sustainable growth is also being supported by a landmark agreement at the county level. In January 2026, the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners approved a new funding formula for K-12 education, allocating approximately 119 million dollars to Asheville City and Buncombe County schools. This agreement provides greater budgetary reliability for career and technical education programs, which are essential for training the next generation of skilled workers in the construction and hospitality trades. By stabilizing school funding, the county is ensuring that local students are prepared to enter high-demand sectors, directly addressing the labor needs of Asheville’s expanding small business community.
While challenges remain, including the need for affordable housing and the impact of regional job losses in the manufacturing sector, the general sentiment among business leaders is one of cautious optimism. The combination of stabilized local funding, a rebounding tourism sector, and a steady stream of new business openings suggests that Asheville is positioning itself for a sustainable and resilient economic future.
WNCTimes