Asheville Hosts G20 Meeting, Bringing Global Leaders and Economic Boost to Western North Carolina
ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WTVD) -- Asheville is in the international spotlight this week as it hosts the G20 Finance Track meeting, bringing finance ministers, central bank officials and business leaders from some of the world's largest economies to Western North Carolina.
The four-day event is being held at the Omni Grove Park Inn and is expected to attract more than 500 attendees from around the globe.
Local leaders see the gathering as both an economic opportunity and a chance to showcase the region's recovery efforts following the impacts of Hurricane Helene in 2024.
"Asheville in Western North Carolina has always punched above its weight," said Vic Isley, president and CEO of Explore Asheville and the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority. "We've hosted presidents for meetings at the Omni Grove Park Inn, and we have long been a place for wellness and gathering and for inspiration."
Officials estimate visitors attending the conference will spend approximately $2 million during their stay, providing a significant boost to the local economy. Businesses across the hospitality, transportation and tourism sectors are expected to benefit from the influx of international visitors.
Isley said hosting the meeting offers an opportunity to highlight both the progress Asheville has made and the work that remains.
"Hosting the G20 finance meeting here in Asheville gives us the opportunity to show how far our community has come and also to shine a light on the state and federal resources that are still needed to build our community and region back stronger here in the mountains," Isley said.
Community leaders say the event's impact extends beyond hotel bookings and restaurant visits.
"It really does take a village," Isley said. "To have events like this come here, bring money to the local economy, but also to be able to show what additionally needs to be done for our community and for our people."
Preparations for the event have involved collaboration among tourism officials, transportation providers and conference organizers. Local businesses and artists are also being featured throughout the conference.
"From welcoming folks at our newly constructed airport with the newest airport tower in the country to working with destination management companies and transportation companies to get the attendees safely to the resort, we've worked together to make this a success," Isley said. "We're also working with conference planners to ensure that local artists and goods are being provided as gifts and amenities for these high-profile attendees."
For Asheville, the G20 meeting represents not only a moment on the world stage but also an opportunity to reinforce the region's reputation as a destination for major international events while supporting ongoing recovery and economic development efforts.
