Economic Development

certified entrepreneurial community

In Haywood County, the Economic Development Council’s (EDC) mission is to foster a healthy and prosperous economy and quality of life for the community through the development of capital investment, job creation and entrepreneurial opportunities while supporting existing businesses and industry. The EDC falls under the umbrella of the Haywood Chamber of Commerce and is funded by the Haywood County Government.

Haywood County has much to offer businesses looking to relocate or expand their operations, we are strategically located in Western North Carolina with I-40 running through our county and I-26 in nearby Asheville. We are strategically located within 1 days drive of 50% of the population, a Certified Entrepreneurial Community, an industrial park, quality workforce and some of the nation’s top vocational and technical training programs.

In January of 2018, The Haywood Chamber and the Economic Development Division of the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce entered into a marketing partnership. Click Here to view a Presentation providing an overview of the success of the first year and where we are headed.

For more information, visit the EDC’s website.

To learn more about our business community, visit:

Creating a Thriving and Supportive Entrepreneurial Environment

Haywood County is considered to be a magnet for entrepreneurs who have new ideas and business models that help shape our small business climate. The rate of entrepreneurial start-ups is greater in Western North Carolina than anywhere else. Haywood County has made a commitment to the development and success of entrepreneurs by being an entrepreneur-ready community with leadership focus and a supportive network to motivate and mentor the entrepreneur.

Haywood County received AdvantageWest’s Certified Entrepreneurial Community Designation, (CEC) in 2008. The CEC is an economic development strategy that assists communities with providing services at all levels for inspiring and existing entrepreneurs. Haywood County is trained and certified in entrepreneurial development to help businesses thrive in Western North Carolina.