Dear Friend,

Small businesses are the backbone of Western North Carolina, from the storefronts that line Main Streets in our mountain towns to the family-owned operations that have supported our communities for generations.

This week, I cosponsored a resolution designating May 3–9 as National Small Business Week, honoring the hard work, grit, and determination of small business owners and their employees who keep our local economies strong and our communities thriving.

                                            Hammond's Antiques in Burnsville, NC

                                           Supporting Small Business Recovery

While many small businesses have reopened since Hurricane Helene, many are still rebuilding from storm damage, lost revenue, and ongoing challenges.

That is why I work to cut red tape, strengthen the business climate, and ensure small businesses have the support they need to recover and grow. This includes backing the Small Business Regulatory Reduction Act, which requires the SBA to ensure new rules impose zero net cost on small businesses and increases transparency around the true cost of federal regulations.

I also supported the DUMP Red Tape Act, which established the SBA Red Tape Hotline to give small businesses a direct line to report burdensome or outdated regulations.

If you need assistance, contact my office at 865-EDWARDS. Small businesses can also reach the SBA Red Tape Hotline at redtape@sba.gov.

                                                   DLV Roofing in Mills River, NC

                                       Meeting with Business Owners Across NC-11

This week, I visited small businesses across our region to hear firsthand about the challenges and opportunities they’re facing. From small-town shops to local restaurants and community-focused businesses, I appreciated the chance to meet with owners and employees who work hard every day to serve their communities and keep their doors open.

I had the great opportunity to stop by DT’s Blue Ridge Java. My last visit to DT’s was a year ago after they suffered severe damage from Hurricane Helene. The café was flooded with over 10 feet of water, destroying more than 20 years of work. As of August last year, they have recovered and are fully operational again!

Hef’s Restaurant, a family-owned restaurant, was closed for a year following Hurricane Helene and recently reopened in September 2025.

These conversations continue to inform my work and help ensure we’re supporting local job creators and strengthening our regional economy.

                                                Shady Side Florist in Marshall, NC

Sincerely,

Chuck Edwards
Member of Congress