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News/Press Releases

Asheville Citizen-Times interviews AdvantageWest CEO on WNC economy
5/11/2012
New manufacturing jobs are helping with economic recovery
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Jenkins Millwork expands production to Western North Carolina
5/7/2012
Company adding 50 jobs in Wilkes County
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“The Hunger Games” continues its phenomenal success
5/6/2012
Shot in the AdvantageWest region, the Lionsgate film has grossed $617,727,000
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CNBC interviews the founder of Sierra Nevada on the past, present and future of craft beer
5/4/2012
The craft brewer is locating its East Coast operation in the AdvantageWest region.
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New Belgium is rated #5 among the most influential craft brewers in the U.S.
5/3/2012
The craft brewer recently announced its plans to locate its East Coast operation in the Asheville.
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Asheville-Citizen Times: Oskar Blues building major brewery in Brevard
5/2/2012
The maker of Dale’s Pale Ale will build a major expansion operation in Brevard.
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New Belgium Brewing announces public input meetings
5/1/2012
An opportunity to hear about the company's design and development schedule for its site in Asheville, ask questions, raise concerns, and provide ideas
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National publication ‘Independent Banker’ recognizes AdvantageWest’s Certified Entrepreneurial Community program
4/30/2012
CEC program is one of four “entrepreneurial laboratories” profiled.
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Asheville Citizen-Times: Sports tournaments boost economy in AdvantageWest region
4/29/2012
The Southern Conference and Big South Conference basketball tournaments made a combined economic impact of $5.5 million
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The Hunger Games, filmed in the AdvantageWest region: Continued media coverage
4/29/2012
This blockbuster film continues to garner media attention around the world. Here’s a small sample.
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Forbes recognizes chocolate-maker from AdvantageWest region
4/27/2012
UliMana uses Blue Ridge Food Ventures to make its organic truffles
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New Belgium Brewing Company selects the AdvantageWest region for its East Coast expansion brewery.
4/26/2012
We are continuing to update this roundup of media coverage regarding the nation's 3rd largest craft brewer coming to Asheville.
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Facebook opens data center in AdvantageWest region
4/20/2012
Grand Opening of Facebook in Rutherford County
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Public brainstorming session on April 25 for showcasing entrepreneurs & creatives during the DNC
4/18/2012
Members of the creative economy are invited to an event to build connections, share information and generate ideas for the Democratic National Convention Creative Hub.
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Recreational Vehicles Manufacturer to Create 70 Jobs in Mitchell County
4/17/2012
Bombardier Recreational Products will unvest $1.1 million over the next three years in Spruce Pine.
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Live monthly radio interview on Clear Channel regarding AdvantageWest activities
4/15/2012
A monthly conversation between AdvantageWest President & CEO Scott Hamilton and Jerri Jameson, with The Morning Report on News Radio 570 WWNC.
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NC is #2 in list of Top 10 Film Locations Around the World, says Global News
4/15/2012
One of the top news services in Canada mentions 'The Hunger Games' as it names North Carolina to its list of Top 10 Film Locations Around the World
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Asheville Citizen-Times profile of Blue Ridge Food Ventures client Wingbean
4/13/2012
Wingbean is an organic foods catering company which uses the commercial kitchens at Blue Ridge Food Ventures
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LA Times: 'Hunger Game' wins weekend box office; surpasses $300 million
4/9/2012
The blockbuster made in the AdvantageWest region continues to break records.
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Madison County reaps success of 'The Hunger Games'
4/9/2012
Secrets of the biggest movie to hit the hills of Madison County are beginning to be unveiled.
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Beer company expansions brew excitement for ASU program
4/9/2012
News that the second and third largest craft brewers in America are coming to the Asheville area is particularly opportune for Appalachian State University's up-and-coming fermentation science program.
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AdvantageWest entrepreneur is named NC Small Business Person of the Year
4/7/2012
Cheers to Oscar Wong, Asheville brew pioneer, for winning this tremendous award.
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County businesses invited to partner with Google
4/5/2012
Google is announcing the details of North Carolina “Get Your Business Online,” specifically aimed at businesses in Western North Carolina, on Thursday.
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Asheville hosts forum on Growing the Appalachian Food Economy
4/3/2012
Blue Ridge Food Ventures has had a major role in organizing this ARC and they are hosting a forum on the importance for cities, counties, states and regions to focus on the local food company.
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The Appalachian Regional Commission’s “Growing the Appalachian Food Economy” forum held in Western North Carolina
4/2/2012
ARC forum supports the entire food value chain, including Blue Ridge Food Ventures.
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AdvantageWest Advantage Opportunity Funds client launches her business
4/1/2012
A profile of Mother Earth Produce from Verve Magazine
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Tourism, economic development officials want to build on 'Hunger Games' success
3/31/2012
AdvantageWest’s WNC Film Commission helped bring the film to the region; Scott Hamilton, President & CEO, is interviewed.
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Asheville's food economy more than farms, tailgate markets
3/31/2012
Blue Ridge Food Ventures has a major role in organizing this ARC event, which looks at the bigger picture of region’s food economy (it’s more than farms and tailgate markets)
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The Today Show broadcasts live from Western North Carolina.
3/30/2012
Transylvania County was one of several WNC locations for the filming of the blockbuster 'The Hunger Games' and the NBC Today Show was there for a live report.
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Asheville Citizen-Times: State jobless rate dips
3/30/2012
AdvantageWest President & CEO Scott Hamilton is interviewed.
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AdvantageWest eNews for March 27 2012 is now online.
3/27/2012
The backstory on how 'The Hunger Games' landed in WNC, plus upcoming events and opportunities.
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Report: The 2012 State of Small Business and Entrepreneurship
3/26/2012
View or download this report that includes a look at economic outlook and trends, NC small business facts, and business rankings for the state.
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Raleigh News & Observer: ‘Hunger Games’ star discovers product started at Blue Ridge Food Ventures
3/23/2012
Woody Harrelson becomes a fan of Buchi kombucha, made in WNC.
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WLOS-TV interviews AdvantageWest CEO Scott Hamilton about landing The Hunger Games
3/23/2012
AdvantageWest’s WNC Film Commission was the first to get the call from Hollywood looking for a location
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AdvantageWest's WNC Film Commission hosts private screening of 'The Hunger Games'
3/22/2012
View a photo gallery of the invitation-only event, held March 21, 2012
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WLOS-TV: WNC Film Commission hosts sneak peek of The Hunger Games
3/21/2012
Extras, crew, elected officials, and business and community leaders who helped with the production attend private screening organized by AdvantageWest and Asheville Buncombe EDC.
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Asheville Citizen-Times Photo Gallery: Private screening of "The Hunger Games"
3/21/2012
AdvantageWest's WNC Film Commission and Asheville CDC hosted an invitation-only premiere of the film on March 21.
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Top Movie Film Locations in Asheville and North Carolina Mountains
3/21/2012
The Hunger Games, opening on March 23, was filmed in several areas near Asheville. It is the latest in a long list of movies filmed in western North Carolina.
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CBS News: North Carolina gets ready for 'Hunger Games' fans
3/21/2012
Fans of "The Hunger Games" are already turning up in North Carolina, seeking out places where the movie was shot, from old-growth forests to an abandoned mill town.
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USA Today features Transylvania entrepreneur and manufacturer SylvanSport in article on Chinese copycats
3/19/2012
Company’s patented recreational camper trailer is being copied by manufacturers in China, bringing challenges to the Brevard business.
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Asheville Citizen-Times: Healthy economy depends on healthy environment
3/18/2012
Business column quotes AdvantageWest’s VP of Entrepreneurism & AdvantageGreen
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Asheville Citizen-Times profile of Blue Ridge Food Ventures client Smoking J’s Fiery Foods & Farm
3/18/2012
Smoking J’s offers a wide variety of products that include seasonal fresh chili peppers from the farm as well as an assortment of pepper-infused products created at Blue Ridge Food Ventures
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Trade & Industry Development Magazine awards WNC economic development project
3/18/2012
Rutherford County project is recognized with a CiCi (Community Impact Corporate Investment) award.
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Press Release from Transylvania Partnership: Business Plan Contest Winners Announced
3/17/2012
Producer and marketer of Do-More Bars claims $10,000 first prize
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Upcoming free seminar helps business owners navigate difficult times.
3/16/2012
Event to be held at Blue Ridge Community College in partnership with Mountain BizWorks.
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Hunger Games actress gets ready for role in film based on novel by WNC author
3/16/2012
Movie based on WCU professor's best-selling 'Serena,' will star Jennifer Lawrence
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Press Release: Hunger Games Fan Tours Launch in Brevard
3/14/2012
Tours provide a way to see some of the movie locations and share in the experience of participating in Hunger Games–themed adventures with other like-minded fans.
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Huge economic boost predicted in AdvantageWest region from The Hunger Games
3/14/2012
Film opens March 23rd across the country.
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WLOS-TV broadcasts live from Blue Ridge Food Ventures
3/14/2012
Local entrepreneurs are using the natural products manufacturing facility at Blue Ridge Food Ventures to make their products.
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WLOS-TV: Huge boost expected from The Hunger Games
3/14/2012
AdvantageWest CEO Scott Hamilton is interviewed in a report on the economic benefits of “The Hunger Games,” the highest-profile movie ever made in the state.
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Press Release: $2.6 Million in Rural Center Grants made to 13 counties in WNC
3/13/2012
Grants to help create jobs, improve the availability of health care, and plan water and sewer improvements in rural communities
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Press Release: SMARTRAC and UPM Join Forces, Create 22 New Positions
3/13/2012
Announcement from Henderson Co Partnership for Economic Development.
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Press Release: SBA Offers Disaster Assistance to NC Residents Affected by Severe Storms and Tornadoes
3/12/2012
NC residents and businesses affected by the severe storms and tornadoes on March 3 can apply for low-interest disaster loans from the US Small Business Administration
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Press Release: Ameridial to add 195 jobs in Rutherford County
3/9/2012
Company to invest $2.1 million during the next three years in Spindale
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Isothermal Community College partners with Facebook on Data Center Institute
3/1/2012
Intensive 3-week course is expected to boost opportunities for students in the region's "data-center corridor"
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National news outlet highlights Asheville’s thriving craft-brewery scene
2/28/2012
AdvantageWest region continues to get notice following Sierra Nevada’s decision to expand to WNC.
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Press Release: Western Carolina University to consolidate Asheville-area programs at new Biltmore Park site
2/28/2012
Both graduate and undergraduate academic programs will be available at new instructional site
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Press Release: Lenoir-Rhyne University to open new graduate center in downtown Asheville
2/28/2012
Center to offer nine graduate programs, with introductory discounts on tuition
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Asheville Citizen-Times profile of Blue Ridge Food Ventures client Rachel's Delectables.
2/27/2012
Rachel makes delicious cheesecakes in the Blue Ridge Food Ventures' shared-use commercial kitchens
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Press Release: Plastics Manufacturer to Add 54 Jobs in Rutherford County
2/27/2012
Alliance Precision Plastics Corp plans to invest at least $300,000 during the next three years in Spindale.
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Clear Channel focuses on entrepreneurship in WNC
2/26/2012
Interview with AdvantageWest's Matt Raker, VP of Entrepreneurship & AdvantageGreen, on the Clear Channel Radio public affairs program, "Changes"
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EPA Celebrates ENERGY STAR Leaders and Labeled Buildings
2/24/2012
Burke County Public Schools recognized as one of the leading organizations in US in improving energy efficiency.
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WLOS-TV: WNC is hub for entrepreneurs
2/22/2012
Here's one of four live interviews that aired on News 13 This Morning, featuring local entrepreneurs and AdvantageWest VP of Entrepreneurship Matt Raker.
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Asheville Citizen-Times: Manufacturing up in WNC
2/16/2012
AdvantageWest President & CEO Scott Hamilton is interviewed on increased interest in the region.
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AdvantageWest eNews for Feb 14 2012 is now online.
2/14/2012
Read about local business plan competition winners; a new $3.6 million program to engage rural youth in entrepreneurship; plus, meet AW's new Entrepreneurship Program Manager.
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The "backstory" on recruiting Sierra Nevada to NC
2/7/2012
Insight into how AdvantageWest and other economic development partners helped bring the craft brewer to the region.
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NC Dept of Transportation Information on I-40 Rockslides
2/2/2012
The rockslides have now been cleared.
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Blue Ridge Biofuels wins break-through business competition
2/2/2012
Entrepreneurs advancing biofuels, bike repairs and nut butters take top awards in a competition sponsored by Blue Ridge Entrepreneurial Council
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Blue Ridge Food Ventures natural products client Potters’ Skin Butter celebrates launch
2/2/2012
The Village Potters hosts a celebratory event for Cara Mae™ Skin Care’s re-branding launch of Potters’ Skin Butter
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Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. locating in AdvantageWest region - a roundup of coverage
1/30/2012
The announcement has garnered significant regional and national attention. Here’s just a small sample of media coverage.
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A conversation with AdvantageWest CEO on Sierra Nevada's decision to locate East Coast operation in WNC
1/29/2012
Scott Hamilton is interviewed by Asheville Radio Group News Director Bill McClement for the public affairs program, Asheville Area Focus.
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Sierra Nevada Brewing Co to locate East Coast manufacturing & distribution operation in AdvantageWest region
1/25/2012
Henderson Co facility to create 95 full-time, 80 part-time and 60 construction jobs, with more than $100 million investment.
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Area Development Online: Sierra Nevada Chooses WNC for Eastern Brewery Expansion
1/25/2012
Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. has announced that it has chosen a site 12 miles south of Asheville, in Western North Carolina, for an east coast production and distribution operation as well as a proposed restaurant.
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Radio interview: Annual Sustainable Viticulture Conference
1/23/2012
"Let's Talk NC" features upcoming conference, which will include a presentation on Blue Ridge Food Ventures.
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Chemical Manufacturer to Create 19 Jobs in Caldwell County
1/20/2012
Gov. Bev Perdue announces that Lubrimetal Corporation will locate a new facility in Caldwell County, creating 19 jobs and invest $1.9 million.
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Bike Magazine: Transylvania County is "America's Best Kept Secret"
1/19/2012
Transylvania County has everything for the cyclist, editor says.
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AdvantageGreen Internship & Fellowship Program Impacts
1/17/2012
Report provides a review of the program’s impacts as well as excerpts highlighting the experiences of program participants.
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Certifiably Entrepreneurial
1/17/2012
Blog entry about AdvantageWest’s CEC program, from a very well-known and respected Ohio company, JumpStart.
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Asheville Citizen-Times: 2012 film lineup led by Asheville-made 'Hunger Games'
1/14/2012
A rundown of films to look forward to in 2012.
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Asheville Citizen-Times Profile of Blue Ridge Food Ventures client Potters’ Skin Butter
1/13/2012
Created for local potters as a remedy for the drying effects of clay on their hands.
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NCTechNews: 2nd Annual Sustainable Viticulture Conference is Feb 22 at Warren Wilson College
1/11/2012
Event to include presentation on Blue Ridge Food Ventures’ value-added product capabilities for grapes
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American Recycling to Launch Asheville Operations
1/10/2012
The launch will create 20-30 new jobs within the next three months and an anticipated $1.5 million investment in its Enka plant.
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Asheville Citizen-Times Profile of Blue Ridge Food Ventures client Carolina Pig Polish
1/6/2012
A barbecue dipping, basting and finishing sauce made from sorghum molasses and spices such as curry, clove and cinnamon.
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Legacy Paddlesports announces relocation to Henderson County
1/6/2012
Not only will the move place Legacy in the middle of the growing outdoor industry, it will also bring 72 jobs and $4.5 million in new capital investment.
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Kayak maker moving to Asheville area
1/6/2012
Legacy Paddlesports, will bring 40-50 new jobs to the area and invest $4.5 million.
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Investment in Asheville-area'green' jobs begins with conservation
1/6/2012
Asheville Citizen-Times business commentary that mentions the BRFV Natural Products Manufacturing Facility
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WNC entrepreneur named Greenspiration's "American-Made Pick of the Week"
1/4/2012
Maker of mountain laurel handrails receives national attention.
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Yancey Times Journal: Yancey County is a Certified Entrepreneurial Community
1/4/2012
An article by the weekly newspaper's editor, Jody Higgins, about Yancey County's process of becoming an AdvantageWest CEC.
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Supporters of Blue Ridge Food Ventures earn an "A" from the Asheville Citizen-Times
1/3/2012
Blue Ridge Food Ventures sold a record number of holiday gift boxes to those who appreciate local, handcrafted foods.
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Yancey County earns status as the tenth Certified Entrepreneurial Community in the country
1/2/2012
Unique program recognizes documented commitment to encourage and support entrepreneurship
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Asheville Citizen-Times profile of Blue Ridge Food Ventures client Smiling Hara Tempeh
12/30/2011
Smiling Hara’s local, unpasteurized tempeh is organic, GMO-free and made with only U.S.-grown beans.
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Asheville Citizen-Times recognizes AdvantageWest's initiative to build the clean energy economy
12/29/2011
EvolveEnergy Partnership is among the top news stories of 2011.
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Top News Story of 2011: Town of Black Mountain earns status as a Certified Entrepreneurial Community
12/28/2011
Black Mountain News recognizes top stories of the year.
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Blue Ridge Food Ventures client is named one of Asheville Citizen-Times' Inspiring People of 2011
12/25/2011
Profile of Chris Sullivan, founder of Home Free Bagels.
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Asheville Citizen-Times profile of Blue Ridge Food Ventures client GalloLea Organics
12/24/2011
Tom Gallo and Susan Devitt assemble pizza kits that make fresh homemade pizza in 30 minutes.
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Director of Technology Commercialization Center helps entrepreneurs realize their dreams
12/23/2011
Clients include numerous AdvantageWest Advantage Opportunity Fund recipients.
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WCQS interviews Mary Lou Surgi about Blue Ridge Food Ventures
12/23/2011
News reporter Duncan McFadyen learns about BRFV's Red Box Program
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Lenoir-Rhyne University to open new graduate center in Asheville
12/22/2011
The Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce is selling a portion of its building on Montford Avenue to LRU for the center, set to open in 2012.
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UPM Raflatac Announces Expanded Operations in Henderson County
12/21/2011
The UPM Raflatac expansion will lead to the addition of at least 51 new employees and an investment of $11.5 million.
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Asheville Citizen-Times profile of Blue Ridge Food Ventures client UliMana
12/19/2011
A line of chocolate truffles and spreads distributed nationwide are hand-made at Blue Ridge Food Ventures.
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Regional publication features filmmaking in Western North Carolina
12/15/2011
Leading Edge, a publication of Henderson Co Chamber of Commerce, looks at WNC’s film industry
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Business NC awards WNC company Small Business of the Year
12/14/2011
Sock-maker DeFeet, based in Hildebran, is honored for Business North Carolina’s ‘Small Business of the Year” award.
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Regional Tourism Coalition Blue Ridge Mountain Host Announces New Managing Director
12/9/2011
Blue Ridge Mountain Host has announced a new Managing Director.
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Roller Bearing Manufacturer to Create 231 Jobs in Burke and Alexander Counties
12/8/2011
American Roller Bearing Industries Inc. expects to invest $3 to $5 million per year in land, buildings, machinery and equipment.
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Mountain Xpress article looks back at the Venture Local conference organized by AdvantageWest's Blue Ridge Entrepreneurial Council
12/7/2011
About 100 entrepreneurs and potential financial backers came together to discuss the burgeoning local-business movement at Venture Local.
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Mountain Xpress: Gifts for Foodies
12/6/2011
A look at gift ideas from food entrepreneurs at Blue Ridge Food Ventures, AdvantageWest's food business incubator.
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880 AM The Revolution: Blue Ridge Food Ventures Holiday Market
12/6/2011
Blake Butler, host of "Local Edge Radio" learns about Blue Ridge Food Ventures, the Holiday Market, and the Red Box gift program
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Job Opening - Director of Entrepreneurship
12/2/2011
AdvantageWest, Western North Carolina’s regional economic development partnership, is seeking qualified applicants for the Director of Entrepreneurship Program.
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Morganton News Herald: Case Farms to add 100 jobs in Morganton
11/30/2011
Case Farms will add a second shift at its chicken-processing plant and create 100 new jobs in 2012.
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AdvantageWest eNews for Nov 29 2011 is now online.
11/29/2011
News about upcoming events and opportunities, including the Blue Ridge Food Ventures Holiday Market and holiday gift box program with local specialty foods made at BRFV.
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Hendersonville Times-News profile of AdvantageWest's Tom Johnson
11/29/2011
Meet our new Executive VP, responsible for advanced manufacturing and other industrial recruitment
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Asheville Citizen-Times: Winter Sun Farms program provides local produce through winter
11/28/2011
Shares still available in Blue Ridge Food Ventures' winter CSA. Pickups start the first full week of December.
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Asheville Citizen-Times: The right degrees will right Asheville economy
11/27/2011
A business column reflecting on comments by AdvantageWest Economic Summit panelist Dr. John Bardo.
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Asheville Citizen-Times Profile of Blue Ridge Food Ventures client CoCoChi SkinFood
11/27/2011
Natural skin care product is made at BRFV's Natural Products Manufacturing Facility.
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Asheville Citizen-Times profile of Blue Ridge Food Ventures client Fire from the Mountain
11/21/2011
Company makes hot sauces, salsa and barbecue sauces from peppers grown on the owner's Watauga County farm.
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McDowell News: Baldor beefing up local plant
11/21/2011
Baldor Electric Company to expand its plant in McDowell County and create 41 new jobs.
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USA Today: WNC farmers talk about balancing farm life and business
11/18/2011
Series of online videos showcase four independent farmers and a behind-the-scenes look at bringing fresh food to your table.
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Washington Post visits Watauga County inn
11/18/2011
Gideon Ridge Inn in Blowing Rock has "nary a bad view"
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Nypro Asheville announces new product line expansion and new jobs
11/18/2011
Precision plastic products manufacturer Nypro announces a $7.2 million expansion and the addition of 26 new production and engineering jobs to its current workforce of 275 employees.
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Sonoco Plastics to bring 35 jobs to Haywood County
11/18/2011
The global provider of consumer packaging, industrial products, protective packaging and packaging supply chain services, will expand operations at its packaging facility in Waynesville.
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AdvantageWest Economic Summit: A look back
11/15/2011
Read news media coverage of the November 14 event at Diana Wortham Theatre in Asheville, attended by more than 300.
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Press Release: Brevard reality series cast members announced
11/15/2011
The town of Brevard recently held auditions for the town’s very own reality series - showcasing why residents believe Brevard is the coolest small town in America.
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Valdese Economic Development Investment Corporation recognized by Governor Bev Perdue
11/14/2011
Innovative Small Business Community Awards honor communities for their creative and innovative ways to help small businesses bring jobs to North Carolina.
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AdvantageWest Economic Summit is November 14
11/14/2011
Join business leaders, entrepreneurs, economic development professionals and others with a vested interest in WNC at one of the region's most popular annual networking events. Register online by 12noon on Nov 14 or at the door beginning at 5:30pm at Diana Wortham Theatre.
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WNC organization honored by NC Sustainable Energy Association
11/10/2011
Waste Reduction Partners wins 2011 Community Leadership Award.
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Meet the Panelists: Vice Chief Larry Blythe of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians
11/7/2011
Learn more about Vice Chief Blythe, a panelist at the AdvantageWest Economic Summit on Nov 14, 2011.
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Asheville Citizen-Times: We have the entrepreneurs and ideas that work in the region.
11/6/2011
This commentary features two of our Advantage Opportunity Fund clients, Kara Errickson and Jason Scholder.
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Asheville Citizen-Times article on the AdvantageWest "Venture Local" event
11/6/2011
About 200 entrepreneurs gathered recently to talk about ways to link local businesses and build a stronger economy.
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Asheville Citizen-Times profile of Blue Ridge Food Ventures client Imladris Farm.
11/6/2011
Walter and Wendy Harrill make their jams and apple butter in Blue Ridge Food Ventures' shared-use commercial kitchens.
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WNCW-FM: AdvantageWest Economic Summit
11/4/2011
"Morning Edition" host Pam Bunch interviews AdvantageWest CEO Scott Hamilton.
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Henderson Co among 20 American cities & counties that could be the "next Silicon Valley"
11/3/2011
Business Insider looks at broadband accessibility, workforce, a vibrant local economy, and the presence of a small college or university in making its selections.
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Meet the Panelists: State Senator Tom Apodaca
11/3/2011
Learn more about Senator Tom Apodaca, a panelist at the AdvantageWest Economic Summit on Nov 14, 2011.
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Meet the Panelists: State Senator Martin Nesbitt
11/3/2011
Learn more about Senator Martin Nesbitt, a panelist at the AdvantageWest Economic Summit on Nov 14, 2011.
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Meet the Panelists: Dr. John Bardo, former Chancellor of Western Carolina University
11/3/2011
Learn more about Dr. John Bardo, a panelist at the AdvantageWest Economic Summit on Nov 14, 2011.
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Meet the Moderator: DG Martin, veteran TV and radio host and newspaper columnist
11/3/2011
Learn more about DG Martin, moderator at the AdvantageWest Economic Summit on Nov 14, 2011.
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Asheville Citizen-Times: WNC riding the crest of the green jobs wave
11/2/2011
AdvantageWest region is on the leading edge of the green energy movement.
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Carolina Public Press: EvolveEnergy Partnership targets economic expansion of Western North Carolina’s growing clean energy sector
11/2/2011
Rapid growth in the region of entrepreneur-driven, eco-friendly companies is the foundation for a multi-organizational, 31-county initiative focused on fostering the formation of more clean-energy companies in the area.
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Job announcement: Gourmet Group cabinet maker to hire 136 in Rutherford County
11/1/2011
Gourmet Group LLC to acquire Geppetto Kitchens and expand manufacturing capacity, creating 136 jobs and investing more than $2.3 million.
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Asheville Citizen-Times: Building the green supply chain in the region
10/30/2011
Home manufacturer partnering with solar company illustrates the EvolveEnergy Partnership.
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Governor Bev Perdue declares Solar Homestead Day in North Carolina
10/28/2011
Proclamation honors Appalachian State University's award-winning entry in the US Dept of Energy's Solar Decathlon.
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Press Release: Facebook announces Rutherford Co. Grant Recipients
10/27/2011
21 nonprofits receive Facebook-Rutherford Community Action Grants to help county residents connect with new opportunities
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Manufacturing Today profiles Mills Manufacturing, a leader in the manufacturing of parachutes
10/25/2011
Located in the AdvantageWest region, this company's focus on quality has ensured its success.
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Press Release: Asheville based Integritive, Inc makes WorldBlu’s 2011 list of Most Democratic Workplaces
10/24/2011
International spotlight shines on Integritive; highlights unique business management model
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Asheville Citizen-Times profiles AdvantageWest/Advantage Opportunity Fund client
10/23/2011
Entrepreneur hatches his business with help from AdvantageWest.
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Radio interviews: Oct 2011 'Venture Local' event
10/22/2011
Listen to podcasts of interviews about Blue Ridge Entrepreneurial Council's 'Venture Local' forum, which aired recently on 880AM The Revolution and public radio WNCW-FM.
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Smoky Mountain News: Profile of AdvantageWest region manufacturer Haywood Vocational Opportunities
10/19/2011
Member of MARC started with six clients; now up to 250.
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Hendersonville Times-News: Local produce throughout winter? CSA delivers.
10/19/2011
Blue Ridge Food Ventures' Winter Sun Farms helps local farmers and provides fresh frozen produce to subscribers throughout the winter months.
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President Obama visits the AdvantageWest region.
10/19/2011
Photos and media coverage of the president's visit.
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Asheville Citizen-Times: Clean energy jobs growing in area
10/18/2011
AdvantageWest joins with other organizations to launch EvolveEnergy Partnership to promote area as destination for green business
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NC Film Office Press Release: Studio announces completion of major motion picture
10/18/2011
Highly anticipated film shot entirely in NC.
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US News & World Report: Boone ranks in Top 10 Best Places to Retire
10/17/2011
Recognized for its spectcular views, affordability and access to services through App State.
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Initiative aims to make WNC the leader in clean energy
10/17/2011
Clean energy is America’s future, and Western North Carolina is at the forefront.
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EvolveEnergy Partnership - Executive Summary
10/16/2011
Results of an economic study on the clean energy industry in Western North Carolina.
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Asheville Citizen-Times article on Blue Ridge Food Ventures Executive Director
10/16/2011
Mary Lou Surgi brings a world of experience to her job as executive director of Blue Ridge Food Ventures.
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Tryon Daily Bulletin: County gains distinction as a Certified Entrepreneurial Community
10/13/2011
Polk County is among a growing number of communities in the AdvantageWest region that have earned CEC certification indicating they are "entrepreneur-ready."
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Manufacturer to Create 29 Jobs in Wilkes County
10/10/2011
Gov. Bev Perdue today announced that CertainTeed Corporation, a leading North American manufacturer of building materials, will expand its North Wilkesboro fiber cement siding plant.
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Ameridial Press Release: New call center opens in Rutherford County
10/5/2011
One of the nation’s leading contact centers has opened a new 48-seat facility in Rutherford County.
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Charlotte Observer: NC 'likes' Facebook in a big way
10/5/2011
Gov Bev Perdue gets a tour of the Rutherford County campus, where construction of a $450 million data center continues.
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Asheville ranks #10 as a Top Food & Wine Destination in the US
10/4/2011
TripAdvisor awards 2011 winners based on reviews from travelers around the world.
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Cherokee One Feather: Harrah's Cherokee receives tourism excellence award
10/4/2011
Harrah's Cherokee wins 2011 NC Travel Industry Association’s Tourism Excellence Award for Outstanding Contributions to the Development of Tourism in North Carolina.
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CNN: 5 fabulous fall foliage train rides
10/1/2011
Top 5 list includes the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
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Conde' Nast Traveler's 2011 Readers Choice Awards include WNC properties.
10/1/2011
List of Top 100 properties in the world includes several in the AdvantageWest region.
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Local company designs costumes for major motion picture being made in the AdvantageWest region.
10/1/2011
Asheville-based Organic Armor creates special effects creature costumes for The Healer.
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Travel + Leisure recognizes the Blue Ridge Parkway
10/1/2011
"America's Most Iconic Drives" includes the Blue Ridge Parkway.
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Appalachian State University wins People's Choice Award at the US Dept of Energy Solar Decathlon
10/1/2011
Congratulations to ASU's student team for their entry, the Solar Homestead.
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AdvantageWest eNews for Sept 29 2011 is now online.
9/29/2011
News about the upcoming Economic Summit and other events and opportunities in the region.
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Asheville Citizen-Times: AdvantageWest gets industry recruiter
9/27/2011
Western North Carolina is getting a new industry hunter to scout for factories and bring manufacturing jobs to the region.
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Asheville Citizen-Times article on economic clusters in WNC
9/25/2011
Microbreweries are thriving and lifting the job market
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Blue Ridge Entrepreneurial Council forum focuses on local entrepreneurship opportunities in WNC
9/25/2011
Topics at Venture Local event include local supply chain business opportunities and financing; also includes farm-to-table networking reception
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AdvantageWest board meetings to take place Sept. 30 and Oct. 20
9/23/2011
AdvantageWest serves the 23 counties of Western North Carolina. Board meetings are open to the public.
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AdvantageWest recognized by Southern Economic Development Council with communication awards
9/23/2011
AdvantageWest's collaboration with WNC creative firms and individuals on annual report and website is recognized for excellence.
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High Country Press: ASU's solar-powered home competes in US Dept of Energy Solar Decathlon
9/22/2011
Student project is one of 20 worldwide in contest.
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AdvantageWest eNews for Sept 21 2011 is now online.
9/21/2011
News about our new Executive VP, the upcoming Economic Summit and more.
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Tom Johnson named new Executive VP of AdvantageWest, focused on advanced manufacturing
9/20/2011
Economic developer is recognized for role in bringing Facebook data center to WNC as well as the single largest manufacturing project in Rutherford County’s history
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Mountain Xpress: Lt Gov Dalton praises Horsehead Corp plan to create 250 jobs in Rutherford Co
9/20/2011
The announcement is the single largest manufacturing project in the county's history
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Upcoming class: "Starting Your Own Specialty Food Business"
9/17/2011
The next 5-week Blue Ridge Food Ventures course starts Oct 19.
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Outside Magazine Highlights North Carolina's Dupont State Park As One Of The Nation's Best State Parks.
9/16/2011
Q: What are the best state parks? National parks always get all the attention, but what are the best state parks in the country?
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Watauga Democrat: ASU's Solar Homestead hits the road to US capital
9/15/2011
After about two years of planning, building and showcasing the Solar Homestead, Appalachian State University students and faculty are taking their carefully prepared structure on the road.
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Asheville Citizen-Times article on funding for entrepreneurs
9/12/2011
Article mentions AdvantageWest's Advantage Opportunity Fund.
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Press Release: Thermo Fisher Scientific Announces Expansion with 110 New Jobs in Asheville
9/7/2011
In conjunction with the Economic Development Coalition for Asheville-Buncombe County, Thermo Fisher Scientific announced its plans to expand operations in Asheville.
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Press Release: IOI adding 25 new Jobs
9/2/2011
Cherokee County Commissioner Steve Jordan announced that Industrial Opportunities, Inc. (IOI) is expanding its operations in Andrews, adding 25 new jobs.
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Asheville Citizen-Times profile of AdvantageWest Advantage Opportunity Fund recipient
8/21/2011
Transylvania County start-up SylvanSport targets new generation of campers.
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Wall Street Journal recognizes Asheville as place for start-ups
8/21/2011
Article on hot locations for start-ups includes a mention of Blue Ridge Food Ventures
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Announcing BREC Breakthrough Business Challenge
8/17/2011
Blue Ridge Entrepreneurial Council and Tech 20/20’s Center for Entrepreneurial Growth receive grant to help WNC entrepreneurs and small businesses.
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Press Release: Elkamet Expands Facility & Workforce in Henderson County
8/15/2011
Elkamet announces plans for expanding their US manufacturing facility in Henderson County.
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Podcast: Blue Ridge Food Ventures on Local Edge Radio
8/10/2011
Mary Lou Surgi talks about BRFV with host Lesley Groetsch on 880AM The Revolution
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Visit the Blue Ridge Food Ventures Marketplace Store on Aug 13
8/8/2011
Want to try a taste of Blue Ridge Food Ventures? Visit us at the Asheville Wine & Food Festival.
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Job announcement: Sitel to add 60 jobs
8/3/2011
The call center operation in Asheville will bring its total local workforce to almost 600 people.
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Upcoming events for WNC entrepreneurs and other business people
8/1/2011
Blue Ridge Entrepreneurial Council, an initiative of AdvantageWest, announces events in August and September.
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Job announcement: Furniture maker to bring 58 jobs to Burke Co.
7/22/2011
Ekornes ASA, a Norwegian furniture company, is bringing 58 new jobs and $1.3 million in investments to Morganton.
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Job announcement: Textile company's expansion in Jackson Co will bring up to 150 positions
7/21/2011
Alabama-based HomTex purchases former sewing plant in Sylva, expanding its operations in WNC.
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Press Release: Merger creates SFO Holdings, LLC - 50 new jobs to be created
7/19/2011
The Rutherford County Economic Development Commission is pleased to announce the location of SFI Holding, LLC doing business as Culinary Standards in Forest City, Rutherford County.
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Press Release: Linamar Announces US Manufacturing Facility in Asheville
7/1/2011
Company plans investment of $125 million and 400 new jobs.
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Asheville Citizen-Times: Green energy's green shoots take hold in WNC
6/30/2011
Western North Carolina is a leader in green energy, according to a report from the NC Sustainable Energy Association.
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CNBC: North Carolina is #3 in the country for doing business
6/29/2011
NC moves up from #4 in the 2011 study.
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Asheville Citizen-Times: Green industry booming in WNC
6/27/2011
AdvantageWest region is No. 1 in the state in renewable energy capacity.
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Press Release: Harrah's Cherokee Casino contributes $380 million to local economy
6/27/2011
A new report from UNC's Kenan-Flagler Business School describes the impact of the casino on the region and analyzes the routes of its economic impact.
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Blue Ridge Food Ventures Natural Products Manufacturing Facility featured in Asheville Citizen-Times
6/19/2011
An interview with Kara Errickson of the enterpreneurial startup CoCoChi.
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LA Times reviews 'Road to Nowhere'
6/17/2011
The feature film was made in Western North Carolina.
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The latest AdvantageWest newsletter is now online
6/17/2011
Check out the latest news from AdvantageWest and around the region.
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Local ED director named NC Economic Developer of the Year
6/16/2011
Congratulations to Tom Johnson of Rutherford EDC.
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Blue Ridge Food Ventures client wins Entrepreneur of the Year
6/15/2011
Haywood Co Chamber of Commerce awards Kanini's, a food business offering all natural, frozen foods-to-go and more.
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New York Times features Blue Ridge Food Ventures client
6/15/2011
Bamboo Ladies Bamboo Pickles gets more national coverage.
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Get a taste of Blue Ridge Food Ventures goodies at free event July 1
6/15/2011
Blue Ridge Food Ventures Village Market featured at The North Carolina Arboretum’s 25th anniversary celebration offers samples and products for purchase, all in one location
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Press Release: 124 jobs coming to McDowell Co
6/9/2011
RockTenn, a leading integrated manufacturer of corrugated and consumer packaging and recycling solutions, plans to create 124 jobs and invest $23 million over the next 18 months in Marion, with a total investment of almost $30 million after five years.
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Press Release: State Graduation Rate Climbs Above National Average
6/7/2011
New report also says NC showed the second highest improvement in the graduation rate since 1998 among all states
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Press Release: AdvantageWest announces promotion
6/7/2011
Matt Raker is named VP of Entrepreneurial Development & AdvantageGreen.
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Asheville Citizen-Times: Manufacturer plans expansion
6/3/2011
Advanced Manufacturing Solutions, Inc. marks the grand opening of its Buncombe operations, with an investment of $1.1 million and the addition of 36 new jobs over the next three years.
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Senior VP of Entrepreneurial Development Pam Lewis to leave AdvantageWest
6/3/2011
Matt Raker to assume expanded role as VP of Entrepreneurial Development & AdvantageGreen
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Press Release: New Executive Director of the Western Office of NC Biotech Center
6/2/2011
A professor at WCU's Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation has joined the NC Biotechnology Center.
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Press Release: Workshop on Organic Certification
6/1/2011
Blue Ridge Food Ventures provides upcoming event targeting food producers and farmers
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Asheville Citizen-Times article on Blue Ridge Food Ventures success
5/29/2011
Asheville couple turns unemployment into opportunity with pizza-kit business
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Workshop: Corporate Social Responsibility Practitioner (CSR)
5/27/2011
June 23-24 at the Institute for Sustainable Technology at Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute.
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