Mike Bean joined the board in 2024. After more than a decade negotiating media & entertainment partnerships, Mike is building Homeslice, a startup that crowdfunds down payment assistance cash for first time homebuyers and offers a new form of real estate investment. Mike also runs Finest Deli, a sandwich popup that focuses on using locally raised ingredients and operates weekly at local farmer's markets and breweries. Mike regularly volunteers with Asheville-area poverty and health organizations, and believes broader financial literacy and access to equity ownership are key to creating a sustainable, thriving community. He lives in West Asheville with his partner Ari and their dog Luna.