Submit Your LIFT Fund Applications Before December 1
Nonprofit and Government Partners are Encouraged to Apply

The Legacy Investment From Tourism (LIFT) Fund was created to provide financial investment for tourism-related capital projects that increase patronage of lodging facilities, meeting facilities, or convention facilities in Buncombe County, and benefit the community at large in Buncombe County. The BCTDA estimates that $10.3 million will be available for LIFT Fund investments this year. Applications must be submitted by Friday, December 1.

More information on the LIFT Fund grant process and evaluation criteria can be found in the LIFT Fund Guidelines here.

Apply Now for the Inaugural LIFT Fund
BCTDA Approved Historic $29 Million for 2023 TPDF Projects
County, City, and State Projects to Enhance Buncombe County and Asheville's Competitiveness for Sporting Events

Last month the BCTDA board approved more than $6 million of investment in three major tourism capital projects. These community investments align closely with Tourism Product Development Fund (TPDF) goals and Explore Asheville’s strategic imperatives by enhancing Buncombe County’s competitiveness for multi-day sporting events, dispersing visitors countywide, encouraging off-peak travel, and expanding family-friendly activities for visitors and residents.

In addition to the $22.95 million McCormick Field investment decision made this summer, the following projects were approved for TPDF investment: Buncombe County Parks & Rec's Enka Recreation Destination - Phase II, the City of Asheville's Harrah's Cherokee Center - Asheville Upgrades, and Western NC Agricultural Center's Equine Facility Modernization. 

The authority has committed more than $80 million through 61 investments in 40 community projects across Buncombe County.

Learn More About the 2023 TPDF Projects
MADE X MTNS Outdoor Gift Guide
Submit Your Local Gifts to Be Featured in This Year's Guide

Western North Carolina is home to the most outdoor companies east of Colorado. Just in time for holiday shopping, Made X MTNS is bringing all the goods to one place with the launch of its Outdoor Gift Guide!

This is your opportunity to submit outdoor gear and apparel products, experiences, and holiday deals to spotlight your organization among other independently owned WNC businesses. Businesses can also be featured in the new brick and mortar retail section and nonprofit donation section. 

Submit Your Outdoor Gifts
Apply for Asheville's Updated Outdoor Dining Program
Program Set to Launch January 2024 with New Guidelines 

The City of Asheville's updates to its Outdoor Dining Program aim to enhance accessibility, offer clearer guidance to businesses, and improve overall program management based on extensive public engagement. These changes stem from a shift in perspective prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic, encouraging the exploration of new ways to support public health, safety, and economic vitality. The updated program is set to launch in January 2024, and businesses can now apply through the City's development portal. Information sessions will be conducted to assist businesses in navigating the new application process and standards.

Learn More About the Updated Outdoor Dining Program
Showcase Your Seasonal Hours and
Keep Customers In the Loop

In preparation for the colder days and longer nights, all partners should consider reviewing and updating winter and holiday hours on the Explore Asheville Extranet. This ensures customers have accurate details to effectively plan and visit your business. 

With the change of seasons comes fresh winter offerings and our marketing team wants to know your exciting winter news, openings, specials and events! Please email news@exploreasheville.com with the latest information about your business.
    Warm Welcome to Our Newest Partners
     We are Delighted to Shine a Light on Your Creativity

The regular monthly meeting of the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority (BCTDA) will take place in the Board Room at the offices of Explore Asheville at 9 a.m. on Wed., Nov. 29.  All board meetings are open to the public, and the agenda will be posted 48 hours in advance. Following the meeting, all materials will be posted here. 

EXPLORE ASHEVILLE'S STRATEGIC PILLARS
Delivering Balanced Recovery & Sustainable Growth | Encouraging Safe & Responsible Travel |
Engaging & Inviting More Diverse Audiences | Promoting & Supporting Asheville's Creative Spirit

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