Charleston Regional Development Alliance

Are you a tech startup or small business in South Carolina seeking funding and capital resources? From July 10 through August 15, gain valuable insights and tips from the CAP Carolinas Summer Webinar Series, "Unlocking Funding & Capital Resources for Tech Firms in South Carolina." Presented by the South Carolina Council on Competitiveness' SC Tech, this series offers a comprehensive overview of financing options for tech startups and small businesses at different growth stages. Topics include early-stage private financing, state and federal funds, venture capital, loans, and small business resources. Register here: https://loom.ly/VgYXZJ8

In his newly published Forbes book, "Hourly: Empowering the Invisible Workforce for Shared Success," AJ Richichi, CEO of Sprockets, highlights the crucial yet often overlooked role of hourly employees in the US economy, offering insights and practical solutions for businesses to support and empower these workers. Through real-world examples and research, Richichi demonstrates how enhancing the well-being of hourly workers can lead to shared success for businesses and society. A tech innovator and community leader in Charleston, Richichi is known for his dedication to public service and his work with Sprockets, which connects hourly workers with global brands, reflecting his commitment to driving positive change in the local community and beyond. https://loom.ly/ouMJMnM

The South Carolina Commercial Seafood Apprenticeship Program recently concluded its inaugural month-long session in McClellanville, a small fishing town in rural Charleston County. Six participants received comprehensive training in various aspects of the seafood industry, including business, mariculture, safety, seamanship, and welding. “They are so eager to get started – they want to jump right in,” said Jocelyn Juliano, co-director and a program specialist at the South Carolina Sea Grant Consortium. “Next time, we want to have job descriptions ahead of time from industry members looking to hire so the participants can meet the business owners right away and set up some jobs.” Participants received a $1,000 stipend, certifications in CPR, First Aid, and U.S. Coast Guard Drill Conductor, and are now prepared to enter the workforce in roles aimed at sustaining the seafood industry amidst challenges like aging infrastructure and environmental pressures. https://loom.ly/oszIB8E

The Charleston region offers a fantastic array of Independence Day celebrations. Enjoy fireworks displays, live music, food trucks, and more. Some notable events include the July 4th celebration at Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, featuring prime views of fireworks over Charleston Harbor, and the family-friendly festivities at North Charleston’s Riverfront Park. Many events are free, with activities ranging from live bands and DJs to face painters and balloon artists. For a more relaxed vibe, head to the Isle of Palms or Folly Beach to watch the fireworks by the ocean. Join in the fun and celebrate Independence Day with your community. Happy Fourth of July! https://loom.ly/RXx2myA

Did you know that Charleston is the fastest-growing life sciences metro hub in the country? According to a recent ranking by CommercialCafe, the Charleston metro area experienced a 67% growth in life sciences establishments from 2018 to 2022, outpacing traditional hubs like Boston, San Francisco, and New York. If you're seeking a position in the life sciences sector, there are currently 6,000 job postings in life and health sciences-related occupations at Charleston area employers. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/eK2yYHRG

Ocean Network Express (ONE) launched its new West India North America (WIN) service at the Port of Charleston, providing a direct shipping connection between India’s West Coast and the U.S. East Coast. This service enhances the competitiveness of the Charleston port market and offers a more efficient option for shippers, especially in the Southeast region. “ONE’s decision to bring its new WIN service to Charleston reinforces the competitiveness of our port market, and we are thrilled to support their growth,” South Carolina Ports ' President and CEO Barbara Melvin said. “Our strategic location in the Southeast provides access to a growing consumer base, and our highly productive operations will support the success of this new service.” https://loom.ly/6MbpGp8

What a night! Interns in the Charleston region, both in-state and out-of-state, walked away with loads of inspiration and practical tips from the Charleston Intern Network Series’ “Professional Panel Event.” Rajiv P., Engineering Design Center Senior Leader at Boeing, kicked off the evening with an inside look into his exciting career and the opportunities in aerospace. Pat 🐼 Tang, Personally Producing Staff Manager, Financial Advisor, and Registered Representative at The Western and Southern Life Insurance Company and President of Charleston Young Professionals (CYP), shared opportunities to build a professional network, enhance personal skills, and get involved in the community through CYP. Thomas Heath, Founder and Personal Branding Specialist at Thomas Heath Advisors, kept the momentum going, leading a lively panel discussion with regional experts on networking, skill development, and standing out as a young professional. We were thrilled to hear from our amazing panelists: 🟢 Liz Ashley, CEO, Facilitator, and Chief Aligner at Align 🟢 Jessica Carter, Ph.D., Director at the Lowcountry Graduate Center 🟢 Dalton Mitchum, Civil Engineer at Thomas & Hutton 🟢 Ryan Cass, Senior Manager, 787 Workplace Coaching at Boeing, Co-Founder at Champion Tribe, and Founder at Won Day Mark your calendars! Our next event, Conversations and Connections, is coming up on Wednesday, July 24, at Commonhouse Aleworks from 5:00 - 7:00 PM. It’s a fantastic opportunity for interns to network with fellow interns before wrapping up their internships. Interested in joining us? Register here for the event: https://loom.ly/cbJgrvg

Charleston Farmers Market in Marion Square will take place on Saturday, July 29. Enjoy offerings from over 100 vendors with fresh produce, handcrafted items, and ready-to-eat meals while supporting the local economy. This award-winning market echoes Charleston’s rich history and promotes holistic nutrition. Learn more about the event and what's in season here: https://loom.ly/4ec4-Ek

Breeze Airways™ has launched seasonal flights between Charleston International Airport and Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, offering services on Mondays and Fridays. “As we continue to grow from Charleston we are happy to be connecting our Guests in the Lowcountry with more great travel options with Breeze’s premium product,” said Breeze Airways’ President Tom Doxey in a news release. “We see, and have seen more opportunities for growth from CHS and we look forward to bringing more destinations with Breeze’s added affordability, convenience and ease.” https://loom.ly/N_RIPIQ

South Carolina Women in Tech's (SCWIT), an initiative of South Carolina Council on Competitiveness' SC Tech, will host its First Summer Book Club Meetup this Friday, June 28 at 8:00 AM at Odd Duck Market in Park Circle. Connect with fellow women in tech over coffee and an inspiring read. This summer, SCWIT book clubs across Beaufort, Charleston, Columbia, Myrtle Beach, and Greenville will discuss "I See You!: A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team Through Radical Empathy" by South Carolina's own Erin Diehl. No time to read before the meetup? That's okay! You are still welcome to attend and network. Register today: https://loom.ly/_fdbhrs