Charleston Regional Development Alliance

10/27/2026

There's more to Charleston's economy than meets the eye! 👀

Today, we're taking a closer look at six key sectors helping Charleston grow, innovate and compete on a global stage.

✈️ Aerospace: From aircraft manufacturing and engineering to specialized suppliers, Charleston is making its mark on the global aerospace industry.
🚗 Automotive: Vehicle manufacturing, advanced technologies and a robust supplier network are helping drive the future of mobility.
🔬 Life Sciences: Medical research, biotechnology and pharmaceutical innovation are advancing discoveries and creating new opportunities.
🚢 Logistics: With a world-class port, extensive transportation infrastructure and global connections, the Charleston region keeps goods and businesses moving.
🛡️ Military & Defense: A strong military presence, cutting-edge defense technologies and a network of innovative contractors support critical missions and national security.
🏢 Corporate Services & Headquarters: From corporate headquarters to professional services and business operations, companies are finding the talent and resources to thrive.

Six distinct industries. One dynamic regional economy. And a whole lot of opportunity.

Curious to learn more? Explore the industries shaping our region's future at crda.org/key-industries

10/26/2026

🩺 Are you an LPN or CRN? Your skills are in demand in the Charleston region!

According to the Charleston Regional Talent Demand Study, these are the two most in-demand occupations requiring specialized certifications across the metro area.

Skilled healthcare professionals play a vital role in our region's workforce. Understanding where talent is needed helps connect job seekers with career opportunities while ensuring employers have access to the skilled workforce they need to succeed.

Explore the findings and discover what they mean for the Charleston region's workforce: https://bit.ly/4e52EAh

10/23/2026

🐾 Big hearts are making a big difference in Mount Pleasant!

Local high school students are putting compassion into action through animal rescue efforts, making a meaningful impact in their community while gaining hands-on experience and exploring potential career paths.

Stories like these highlight the next generation of talent and the community spirit that makes the Charleston region so special. Read more from The Post and Courier: https://bit.ly/3WfqXFE

A unique student-run animal rescue at Lucy Beckham High School integrates with the veterinary science curriculum, providing hands-on experience in animal care, medication administration and shelter operations.

10/22/2026

A behind-the-scenes look at advanced manufacturing today could inspire a career tomorrow. 🚗

In celebration of National Manufacturing Month, Volvo Car USA is opening the doors of its Ridgeville plant to local high school seniors through its new Factory Fridays initiative.

Students will get a firsthand look at advanced automotive manufacturing, test their technical skills, and connect with industry professionals to explore career opportunities right here in the Charleston region.

Volvo is also accepting applications for its Accelerator Program, which helps graduating seniors build technical skills and prepare for careers in automotive manufacturing.

Initiatives like these are an important part of building a strong talent pipeline, connecting young people with local opportunities, and supporting the long-term success of our region's advanced manufacturing industry.

Learn more about both programs: https://bit.ly/4in0PkR

10/21/2026

How can we advance digital infrastructure while protecting the resources that make South Carolina special?

At CRDA’s recent Quarterly Investor Briefing, we brought together leaders from technology, construction, and sustainability for a timely discussion on the opportunities, challenges, and considerations surrounding responsible data center development.

The conversation explored the importance of thoughtful planning, environmental stewardship, and community considerations as South Carolina navigates the evolving landscape of digital infrastructure.

Thank you to our panelists for sharing their insights and perspectives: Mickey Renner with HomeTrust Bank, Lauren Hunter with Google, Jay Norman with Whiting-Turner, and Leslie Skardon with Sustain SC.

Conversations like these bring diverse perspectives to the table, encourage informed dialogue, and help our regional partners better understand the complex issues shaping South Carolina's future.

10/20/2026

South Carolina is leading the nation in attracting the next generation of talent. 📈

A new LendingTree study found that South Carolina had the largest net gain of Gen Z adults in the country in 2024, welcoming more than 60,000 young adults from other states and recording a net gain of 22,843.

For the Charleston region, attracting young professionals is key to long-term economic competitiveness. That means creating career opportunities, supporting a strong business environment, and offering the quality of place that helps people and companies thrive.

Read the full study: https://bit.ly/4ynvfIr

10/19/2026

AI is moving fast. Got questions? You're not alone. 💻

AI in the AM is back this fall, bringing South Carolina's AI, technology and cybersecurity leaders together for practical conversations about the tools and trends changing how we work.

Hosted by SC Tech, an initiative of SC Council on Competitiveness, this free virtual series is part office hours, part open conversation. No lengthy presentations or complicated jargon. Just real questions, useful insights and ideas you can put to work.

📅 Tuesdays through November 10
⏰ 9–10 a.m.
📍 Virtual

Whether you're exploring AI for the first time or looking for smarter ways to put it to work, there's a seat for you.

Join the conversation and stay ahead of what's next: https://bit.ly/4B2bSXS

10/16/2026

What could Charleston’s next big company look like?

The Lowcountry Impact Fund has made its first investment: $250,000 to The Harbor Entrepreneur Center to support startups, small businesses and growing companies in the region.

Even better, it’s designed to keep working. As funds are repaid, they can be reinvested into future projects.

It’s another investment in the ideas, entrepreneurs and companies shaping what’s next for Charleston’s economy. Read the full story: https://bit.ly/4ADYdWT

10/15/2026

Big ideas. Bold pitches. Up to $2 million in potential investment. 🚀

On November 12, some of the Lowcountry's most promising entrepreneurs will take the stage for Catalyst by Beemok, a live pitch competition where founders will compete for a share of up to $2 million in potential investment.

It's an opportunity to see innovation in action, discover emerging businesses and connect with the founders, investors and business leaders helping shape our region's future.

We're excited to see Charleston's entrepreneurial community in the spotlight, and we hope you'll be part of the audience!

🔗 Learn more and make plans to attend: https://bit.ly/47M8TW9

10/14/2026

As the Charleston region continues to evolve, commercial real estate remains an important part of the conversation around how our region prepares for what’s next.

CRDA Vice President of Investor Relations Jason Brown recently joined local industry leaders for the annual commercial real estate forecast, sharing an economic development perspective on the forces shaping our region’s next chapter.

The discussion brought together insights on the current market, future development and the trends influencing the Charleston region’s continued evolution.