In a milestone moment for Asheville’s business community, Givens Communities proudly sponsored the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce’s first-ever Black Business Alliance Award, underscoring a shared commitment to equity, opportunity, and inclusive economic growth across Western North Carolina.

The award was presented on stage by Kevin Schwab, CEO of Givens Communities alongside Ava Smith, Chamber Board member and leader at Flat Fee Recruiting, during a ceremony that celebrated the achievements and impact of Black-owned businesses in the region.

“We are proud to sponsor the first Black Business Alliance Award because we share the vision of creating equality and removing barriers to provide opportunity for all fortunate enough to call Asheville and Western North Carolina home,” Schwab said during the presentation. “I’m honored to present the Chamber’s first-ever Black-Owned Business of the Year Award, an initiative of the Chamber’s Black Business Alliance.”

Ava Smith reflected on the significance of the Black Business Alliance, which officially launched earlier in 2026, calling it a vital step forward for the community.

“It’s an important symbol of the Chamber’s commitment to inclusive economic development,” Ava Smith said. “Our goal is to create more opportunity for Black-owned businesses to grow and thrive in Buncombe County. One of the biggest ways we do that is by building relationships. I invite all of you to join us for programs.”

Although the honoree was unable to attend the ceremony, Ava Smith accepted the award on behalf of the business winner, M.S. Lean, to enthusiastic applause from attendees.

Founded by Stephen Smith, M.S. Lean has grown from humble beginnings into a well-respected residential and commercial landscaping company serving the region. Smith launched the business more than 14 years ago with a borrowed lawnmower in the Peace Garden in the Burton Street community of West Asheville—a symbolic origin point he later revisited to film a video highlighting the company’s journey.

Over the years, M.S. Lean has become more than just a landscaping business. Stephen Smith has intentionally used the company as a platform for mentorship and empowerment, particularly for Black youth. By demonstrating that entrepreneurship is attainable, he continues to inspire the next generation of business leaders.

Today, M.S. Lean stands as a model of both business success and community impact. Its commitment to mentorship, workforce development, and community engagement reflects the very spirit of the Chamber’s Black Business Alliance Award.

Givens Communities’ sponsorship of the award highlights its broader mission to support initiatives that strengthen community connections and foster opportunity.

The inaugural award ceremony marks a significant step in recognizing and uplifting Black-owned businesses in Asheville, setting the stage for continued progress through collaboration, visibility, and investment in inclusive growth.

Interested in learning more about our community impact and organizations making a difference? Visit the Givens Foundation News site at https://givensphilanthropy.org/news/