WomanUP is an initiative from the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce focused on women in business who wish to build a strong network of women intent on inspiring one another to achieve individual potential; supporting each other in business endeavors; and creating a legacy through mentorship.
Would you like to be notified about WomanUP programming? Subscribe to our WomanUP email list.
WomanUP events are held in March, August and November. Check our Events Calendar for these and other programs.
Submit a nomination for outstanding women in business. Winners will be honored at the Celebration & Awards Ceremony. Nominations for 2024 are closed and will reopen in Summer 2025.
Women Entrepreneurs, Best in Business
This award, sponsored by Gratz Park Private Wealth Asheville (formerly Webb Investment Services), recognizes a woman who demonstrates the transformation of her dream into the reality of a product or service and who exhibits the traits of an entrepreneur.
Sponsored by Realty ONE Group Pivot, this award recognizes a woman who exhibits leadership in her organization, profession and community. Candidates at any level of an organization may be nominated.
Outstanding Woman Nonprofit Leader
Sponsored by TD Bank, this award recognizes a woman working for a nonprofit who has distinguished herself in her non-profit organization, her profession, and her community.
Sponsored by Pratt & Whitney, this award recognizes women who are making an impact on the STEM industry.
Sponsored by Western Carolina University, this award recognizes a young woman under the age of 35 who has distinguished herself as a leader and role model to other young women.
Sponsored by Kudzu Brands, this award recognizes women who are trailblazers and who make a significant impact through their leadership and innovation.
Suzanne DeFerie Lifetime Achievement Award
Sponsored by First Bank, this award recognizes a woman who has distinguished herself in business over a lifetime, demonstrating excellence and leadership in business throughout her career. The award is named in honor of Suzanne DeFerie. Throughout her 40-year career in the financial services industry, Suzanne was a trail blazer, breaking barriers in her industry, providing both organizational and community leadership and mentoring to other women.
