Black-Owned Businesses in Asheville

Interested in supporting black small-business owners in Asheville? From black-owned restaurants, coffee shops, breweries, and other types of black-owned businesses in and around Asheville, North Carolina, the list below will point you in the right direction.

Black people and people of color have deep roots in Western North Carolina and helped make Asheville the city it is, from the very beginning. Following the Civil War, blacks formed their own communities in Asheville, especially in the area known as “The Block,” located in the east end of downtown—on Eagle Street, and Market Street. To this day, The Block continues to be a vibrant place for black-owned businesses and community resources. Find other historically black neighborhoods in Buncombe County in Montford, the River Arts District, the Burton Street community in West Asheville, and Shiloh. 

Check out this great video by Our State Magazine on Hood Huggers International and how this unique tour showcases the history of black communities in Asheville and the value of supporting our local black-owned businesses, resources, and people. 

Local Black Resources

Hood Huggers International Green Book 
The Hood Huggers International Green Book serves as a starting guide for anyone interested in supporting the resiliency of the African American community in Asheville. The goal is to highlight and connect the businesses and organizations listed, and to provide career inspiration for our youth. Download the Green Book on their website.

The Color of Asheville 
Asheville’s go-to guide for black-owned businesses, business owners, and community connections, sharing information within Asheville’s African American community. It’s a place to share news and events, list local black-owned businesses and professionals as well as community groups that serve the African American community; and celebrate the rich history of African Americans in Asheville. Posting and listing on the website is free. Go to their website.

The Urban News
The Urban News is a print and online newspaper with a mission to impart information that will inspire, engage, and empower the varied communities of Western North Carolina. Coverage includes the latest news, government, education, lifestyles, business, entertainment, events, and op-eds. Go to their website.

YMI Cultural Center
The mission of the YMI Cultural Center is to elevate black communities through cultural, economic, and leadership opportunities and programs. Initially branded as “The Young Men’s Institute,” the YMI Cultural Center is one of the oldest, most unique, and beautiful black cultural centers in the United States. Constructed in 1892, the YMI was designed by the site architect of the Biltmore Estate and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Go to their website.

My Sistah Taught Me That
My Sistah Taught Me That (MSTMT) is a young girl's developmental program designed to encourage, inspire, educate, and empower girls ages 11-19, with a special focus on girls growing up in single-parent homes without their father. MSTMT provides opportunities, open dialogue, and mentorship. Go to their website.