Transylvania Economic Alliance

Unbelievable turnout this weekend for the Transylvania Tomorrow Benefit concert. Thank you to Steep Canyon Rangers, Travis Book Band and Oskar Blues Brewery for their incredible generosity. Our goal to combat economic uncertainty and recovery is far from over, if you love Transylvania County like we do, and want to support the longevity of our dynamic small businesses, please consider making a gift to Transylvania Tomorrow Small Business Emergency Relief Fund. You can make a donation here: [https://lnkd.in/gjP2CEyf] Transylvania Tomorrow is collaborative, economic recovery grant program coordinated by: Heart of Brevard, Transylvania County Tourism Development Authority, Brevard Transylvania Chamber of Commerce, Blue Ridge Community College and Transylvania Economic Alliance

We hope to see our friends and neighbors next weekend for free benefit concert for Transylvania Tomorrow featuring The Steep Canyon Rangers & Travis Book Band. Every cent goes to supporting Transylvania County's dynamic small businesses as we recover from Hurricane Helene. Huge thanks to our partners at Oskar Blues Brewery, Heart of Brevard, Brevard Transylvania Chamber of Commerce & Blue Ridge Community College.

In response to the severe economic impact of Hurricane Helene, the Transylvania Tomorrow Small Business Emergency Relief Fund has been reactivated to help stabilize and rebuild our local economy. Small businesses are critical drivers of economic development, job creation, and community resilience in Transylvania County. The Transylvania Tomorrow fund was created in 2020 to support small businesses during COVID-19, raising $250,000 and providing grants to over 110 small businesses in Transylvania County. TEA is proud to relaunch fundraising efforts with our community partners to help restore, rebuild and protect our dynamic, local economy. Donate today?to invest in the recovery of Transylvania County’s businesses: https://lnkd.in/eXmfq_Mw

Critical Support for Businesses Impacted by Hurricane Helene As our community faces the challenges brought by Hurricane Helene, local businesses need to be aware of the resources available to aid in their recovery. At the Transylvania Economic Alliance, we are dedicated to providing support, and we want to highlight the valuable resources offered by the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC). The EDPNC has compiled a comprehensive set of disaster recovery resources designed specifically to help businesses affected by natural disasters. These resources are essential for businesses navigating the complexities of recovery, from accessing financial aid to receiving guidance on the rebuilding process. Below are some key offerings available to local businesses impacted by Hurricane Helene. Key Resources from EDPNC 1. Financial Assistance and Loan Programs One of the critical concerns for businesses post-disaster is ensuring cash flow during the recovery period. The EDPNC’s resource page outlines various loan programs, including the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) disaster loans, which provide low-interest funding to businesses for repairs, replacement, and working capital. 2. Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) For businesses that have had to reduce their workforce or temporarily close, the DUA provides financial assistance to individuals who have lost employment as a direct result of the disaster. Employers can direct affected employees to this program for support, helping ease the burden during uncertain times. 3. Infrastructure and Physical Damage Support Businesses facing extensive physical damage can find support through the SBA’s Business Physical Disaster Loans. These loans assist in repairing or replacing damaged property, machinery, equipment, and inventory. The EDPNC's guide provides clear instructions on how to apply, what is needed, and how to prepare for the application process. 4. Counseling and Business Rebuilding Advice The EDPNC connects business owners with professional disaster recovery advisors through the Small Business and Technology Development Center (SBTDC) and the North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NCMEP). These services provide guidance on restructuring, financial planning, and future-proofing businesses against future natural disasters. How to Access These Resources Business owners affected by Hurricane Helene can visit the?EDPNC Disaster Recovery Resource page?for more details: https://lnkd.in/eE4kKT8h There, you will find easy-to-navigate links to application forms, detailed information about eligibility, and contact information for personalized assistance. We are committed to helping our community weather this storm and emerge stronger. Stay safe and resilient, and remember that resources are available to support your business through every stage of recovery.

Transylvania County was heavily impacted by Hurricane Helene and most of our community is without cell service and internet. Our offices are currently closed as we wait to regain connectivity.?Our staff will continue to monitor email, social media and voicemail as often as possible and available. Here are a list of resources available to our neighbors, friends and industry partners to support you during this period of disaster recovery.

Among our target markets, jobs within Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services sector have expanded by 57% over the past ten years, with $76,131 earnings per worker in 2023. It is the second-highest job industry sector in Transylvania County. These are numbers we like to see. Interested in job growth? Call us today to learn more: (828) 393-4130

One of our fundamental areas of focus?is retaining industry?and assisting in expansion needs. Why? The vast majority of new jobs created and taxable investment comes from our existing businesses, not new businesses (though we really like them, too). We have five major target areas for our Business Retention & Expansion mission. Learn more on our website:?https://lnkd.in/ezEJRNGZ

Did everyone enjoy their short week thanks to Labor Day? Speaking of labor,?jobs in Transylvania County are up by 3.6% from 2018 to 2023, rising from 11,070 to 11,465. Our labor force participation rate (aka: the percentage of our labor force employed or looking for work) hit a record 53.27%—even higher than before COVID! The top job performance occupations in Transylvania County are Architecture and Engineering, Life, Physical and Social?Science, Management, Business and Financial Operations, and Legal. To learn more about our labor force and labor statistics, reach out!?https://lnkd.in/eGPEqzRw

Fun Fact Friday! (It's Thursday, we know, but it's been a long week and we're tired.) Did you know we are celebrating our tenth anniversary this year? Ten years of economic development has resulted in?$154,583,500 of new, taxable?investment,?406 new jobs?and?60,000 SF?of publicly-owned, new industrial space. We're in it to win it, and look forward to another decade of creating new jobs and increasing Transylvania County's economic vitality. P.S. We couldn't do it without our many numerous local, regional and state partners: https://lnkd.in/eUu9CVJt

The Transylvania Economic Alliance is committed to fostering a thriving economic base in our community. We focus on three main areas to ensure our economy is positioned for reliance and growth: 1. Business Retention & Expansion: We're here to help your existing industries grow and invest in Transylvania County with tailored support and resources. 2. Marketing & Attraction: We work to attract new businesses to Transylvania County aligned with our trends, assets and values, that create high-wage employment opportunities and invest in our community 3. Product Development: We generate new buildings and industrial sites, working closely with developers, local government and real estate professionals to build capacity and inventory Whether you're a business owner, developer, or interested in the health of our local economy, contact us to learn more about Transylvania County's dynamic economy. #EconomicDevelopment #TransylvaniaCounty #BusinessRetention #MarketingAttraction #ProductDevelopment #BusinessGrowth