Asheville & Western NC

Working with privately-owned businesses in the Asheville area, the Center for Private Business provides programming, educational series and networking to our members.

“As a lifelong resident of western North Carolina, I’ve seen firsthand how privately held and family-owned businesses serve as the backbone of our region’s economy.

From Asheville to Boone to the foothills, each community has a distinct entrepreneurial spirit rooted in resilience and innovation. I’m honored to represent this region and help connect its business leaders to the Center’s powerful network of resources, relationships, and educational opportunities that support long-term success.”

Scott FowlerWestern NC Market Manager

Let's build better business, Asheville.

The Center for Private Business is pleased to announce our entrance into Asheville as our fifth major market concentration in North Carolina beginning summer of 2025.

Many of our Member companies already work within the Blue Ridge Mountains and the University of North Carolina Asheville has been a valuable bridge to students and alumni leaders. We are excited to engage with UNC Asheville to reconnect with former Family Business Forum companies.

There is a long history of family businesses in the region, and our goal is to continue providing programming and workshops to help the communities thrive and support the next generation of leaders.

“Asheville has long been a city deeply-rooted in craftsmanship and commerce. When exploring the next foothold for The Center for Private Business, it was a natural choice to select Asheville and Western North Carolina.”

Dana Alligood
Executive Director of the Center for Private Business

Asheville Executive Committee

  • Vanessa Osborne, VP of Office Operations, Deltec Homes
  • Jeff Slosman, President, FNFF, LLC Real Estate
  • Leanne Bridges, VP, Asheville Chamber of Commerce
  • Sabrina Presnell Rockoff, Managing Partner, McGuire, Wood and Bissette
  • Tate Groome, CO-CEO, Colton Groome Financial
  • Drew Thorpe, VP, Asheville Oil
  • Cindy Clarke, Executive Director Emeritus, UNCA Family Business Forum
  • Jake Morrill, Founder, Generation to Generation Leadership Coaching
  • Rollin Groseclose, Partner, DMJPS
  • Lou Bissette, Of Counsel, McGuire, Wood and Bissette

Scott Fowler

Western NC Market Manager

Scott works with recruitment, outreach and members in the Asheville and Western North Carolina region, through Boone, Blowing Rock, Brevard, Hendersonville, Bryson City and the foothills.