ArtsAVL is launching a new initiative to strengthen four Buncombe County arts districts: the downtowns of Asheville, Weaverville and Black Mountain, along with the River Arts District.
The Arts District Leadership and Marketing Collaborative will provide $80,000 in first-year marketing funding, with each district receiving $20,000 to attract more visitors and support local creative businesses. The initiative also includes leadership development, technical assistance, and collaboration among arts organizations.
Part of the Asheville-Buncombe Arts Recovery Framework, the effort aims to support long-term economic recovery following Tropical Storm Helene. Supported by Dogwood Health Trust, the collaborative is planned through June 2028, with initial funding secured through June 2027.
ArtsAVL says the goal is to move beyond storm recovery and build a stronger, more sustainable creative economy.