BUSINESS RECOVERY
Back to business
Supporting Black Mountain businesses means recovery. Our economy can only restabilize and grow if we retain our workforce and keep our entrepreneurs in business. Their success is an important contributor to our Town’s unique character and vibrance.
State and federal assistance
Disaster Unemployment Assistance
If you’re unemployed as a direct result of Helene, you may be eligible for federal Disaster Unemployment Assistance through the North Carolina Division of Employment Security. CLICK HERE FOR INFORMATION and to file a disaster-related claim, or call 919-629-3857. Employers can find resources on this site, too.
Federal & State Tax Relief
The U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the North Carolina Department of Revenue have issued various tax-relieving measures for individuals and businesses who are victims of Hurricane Helene in North Carolina. CLICK HERE FOR NORTH CAROLINA TAX RELIEF INFORMATION and CLICK HERE FOR FEDERAL TAX RELIEF INFORMATION.
U.S. Small Business Administration Loans
Businesses of all sizes and nonprofits can apply for a disaster recovery loan through the SBA. The loan can be applied to cover a number of losses not covered by insurance or FEMA funding for both personal and business expenses. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION. Keep in mind that June 30, 2025 is the Small Business Administration Economic Injury application deadline.
NC Resilient Communities Planning Guide
The State of North Carolina offers a comprehensive, online resource to help local leaders across the state build community resilience to climate hazards such as extreme heat, wildfires and flooding. VISIT REBUILD.NC.GOV.
Helene Resource Center
The Helene Resource Center for Buncombe County is open to all individuals and families impacted by Hurricane Helene, regardless of where they are in their recovery journey. At the HRC, you’ll find information and guidance for programs including FEMA Individual Assistance; Private Property Debris Removal; State Disaster Case Management; Small Business Administration (SBA) disaster loans; Hazard Mitigation Grant Program; and additional survivor-focused services and referrals.
Helene Resource Center for Buncombe County
94 Coxe Avenue, Asheville, NC 28801
Open Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Free parking across the street
No appointment necessary
If you need assistance, visit the HRC or call the One Buncombe Call Center at (828) 250-6100. CLICK HERE for more information.
Buncombe County Helene Recovery Resources Guide
Buncombe County provides a centralized hub of information about Helene recovery resources, and updates the information regularly as deadlines pass and new programs are announced. CLICK HERE for the most up-to-date version of the guide.
Business recovery expertise
EDPNC Disaster Recovery Resource Hub
The Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina has compiled a comprehensive list of resources plus a step-by-step guide to business recovery. CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE DISASTER RECOVERY HUB.
North Carolina SBTDC Resource Hub
The North Carolina Small Business and Technology Development Center also provides a host of information for businesses and individuals through their Hurricane Helene Business Recovery site. CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE SITE.
Business Grants, Loans & Resources
Visit wncstrongtogether.org to learn about grants, loans, and resources for small businesses, artists, and non-profits.
Industry Specific Resources
Farming, agriculture, + agritourism
The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides a variety of disaster assistance programs in support of farmers, ranchers, and agri-businesses. CLICK HERE FOR INFORMATION.
Buncombe County Soil & Water has compiled resources and funding to address commonly reported recovery needs from rural, agricultural, and farming communities, including businesses involved in agritourism. VISIT THE INFORMATION HUB on the Buncombe County website.
Artists and arts organizations
The Western Region of the North Carolina Department of Commerce has provided a list of resources for artists and arts organizations.
Reopening your restaurant
Buncombe County has an expedited process for reopening food service establishments. Restaurant operators should first complete and submit the Emergency Operations Plan Survey for Food Service Establishments. Next, the operator will receive notification if a visit from Environmental Health is required before reopening. If so, an inspector will reach out to you to schedule a visit. CLICK HERE TO START THE PROCESS.
Local Resources
DiscoverBlackMountain.org
In support of connecting visitors to local businesses and destination experiences, the Town of Black Mountain has created discoverblackmountain.org. The website features directories of retail stores (including online shopping), services, venues, restaurants/bars/breweries, and accommodations, plus events and cultural activities.
CLICK HERE TO VISIT DISCOVERBLACKMOUNTAIN.ORG
CLICK HERE TO ADD YOUR BUSINESS TO DISCOVERBLACKMOUNTAIN.ORG
Bids, RFPs and RFQs
Your business is encouraged to respond to Request for Proposals (RFP) and Request for Qualifications (RFQ) issued by the Town of Black Mountain. LEARN MORE.
Buncombe County Helene Recovery Hub
As all of Buncombe County recovers from the impacts of Hurricane Helene, this site will provide timely updates on the work done to support our community in a number of key areas and offer a place for residents to ask questions, provide input, and have a voice in the rebuilding process. VISIT THE RECOVERY HUB.
