Asheville startups report rapid growth, plan major hiring in 2026

Venture Asheville unveiled its 2025 Venture 15 list on December 11, showcasing the fastest growing startups in the Asheville region and quantifying their economic footprint. The 15 companies reported combined annual revenue of more than $23 million and lifetime revenue exceeding $57 million. Together they employ roughly 296 people and expect to hire 138 more in 2026, an increase of about 46.6 percent in headcount that will strengthen local labor markets and consumer demand.

The list ranks companies by compound annual growth rate, or CAGR, a metric that smooths growth over multiple years to compare firms at different stages. Leading examples on this year’s list include Level with a 148.44 percent CAGR, Sourhouse at 141.33 percent, 18 Chestnuts at 141.01 percent, and Fuel Goods at 114.92 percent. Venture Asheville said the rankings reflect sales growth and scaling success across sectors that range from consumer goods to services and technology.

Venture Asheville also used the event to present Venture Asheville Honors awards. Jessie Dean of Asheville Tea Co. received Entrepreneur of the Year. Other honors were announced at the ceremony recognizing mentors, contributors and ecosystem partners who support startup growth in Buncombe County.

For the local economy the numbers matter. More than $23 million in current annual sales contributes directly to local tax revenues and supplier demand, while the planned addition of 138 jobs will increase household income and spending power in communities across the county. Startups on the Venture 15 list also tend to attract follow on capital and form supply chain links that can create indirect employment in professional services, distribution and retail.

Policymakers and economic development leaders will likely view the results as evidence the Asheville startup ecosystem is maturing, while also highlighting ongoing needs for access to capital, affordable commercial space and mentorship networks that help firms scale. Venture Asheville acknowledged ecosystem partners and mentors at the event, underscoring that continued collaboration among investors, public agencies and nonprofit organizations will be key if these firms are to realize their hiring plans and sustain growth into 2026 and beyond.