Interactive event blends Shark Tank-style pitches with improv comedy to create meaningful business connections
ASHEVILLE, NC – February 19, 2026 — AVL Digital Nomads (ADN), Asheville’s growing community of remote and independent professionals, is bringing a new kind of networking experience to the city this spring. SideHustle Live, an interactive comedy game show that blends the pitch intensity of Shark Tank with the spontaneity of Whose Line Is It Anyway, will debut in Asheville on Wednesday, March 25.
Produced in partnership with Austin-based SideHustle Games, the event transforms traditional business networking into an entertainment-first experience where connection happens through shared creativity and laughter
During the 75-minute show, participants team up with fellow attendees to brainstorm and pitch wildly creative business ideas based on unexpected prompts. Professional improvisers and local business leaders share the stage, while the audience participates throughout. The evening concludes with a structured networking mixer where conversations continue naturally.
“Remote and independent professionals are a vital part of Asheville’s economy, but many work in isolation,” said Ric Pratte, Founder of AVL Digital Nomads. “SideHustle Live flips networking on its head. Instead of awkward small talk, people bond over creative collaboration. When you laugh together first, the conversations that follow are far more genuine.”
SideHustle Live has toured multiple U.S. cities, where it has drawn entrepreneurs, creatives, small business owners, and community leaders looking for a fresh alternative to panel discussions and traditional mixers.
“We’ve seen this format create real momentum in startup ecosystems across the country,” said Tomer Soran, Co-Founder of SideHustle Games. “People show up for a fun night out and leave with meaningful professional relationships. Asheville’s entrepreneurial and creative energy makes it an ideal home for this experience.”
The event also serves as a warm-up to HatchThis, Asheville’s intensive entrepreneurial accelerator and hackathon taking place March 27–29, offering participants an accessible introduction to the region’s startup community.
A New Opportunity for Local Sponsors
SideHustle Live is currently seeking local business sponsors who want to support Asheville’s entrepreneurial ecosystem while engaging directly with a highly active audience of founders, remote professionals, and decision-makers.
Sponsorship opportunities range from community support levels to premium integrations and offer:
- Meaningful brand visibility in an interactive setting
- Natural engagement with attendees
- Association with a high-energy, community-centered experience
Businesses interested in sponsorship opportunities are encouraged to reach out to hello@thriveremotely.io for details.
Event Details
Date: Wednesday, March 25, 2026
Time: 6:30 PM Doors | 7:30 PM Show | 8:45 PM Networking Mixer
Location: The Mule at Devil’s Foot
131 Sweeten Creek Rd., Asheville, NC
Tickets:https://bit.ly/3MyEELC
Video Preview:https://youtu.be/yl11O6x0CEI
Early registration is encouraged, as space is limited.
About AVL Digital Nomads
AVL Digital Nomads is a community dedicated to integrating remote, flexible, and independent professionals into Asheville’s vibrant business landscape. Through events, collaboration, and ecosystem partnerships, ADN supports the continued economic and cultural vitality of the region.
