Charleston Regional Development Alliance

12/19/2025

The last shopping weekend before Christmas is here, and if you caught the The Post and Courier’s playful breakdown of what the “12 Days of Christmas” would cost in 2025, you already know holiday spending is no small feat. 🎄💸

While most of us are not gifting partridges or golden rings in bulk, Charleston’s strong retail, hospitality and small business sectors feel this seasonal momentum in real ways. Year after year, the final holiday weekend gives a meaningful boost to local employers and entrepreneurs who help power our regional economy. 🌴📈

As we head into the home stretch, here’s to a bright and busy weekend for businesses across the Lowcountry and a joyful holiday week for all.

See the cost breakdown for a real-life 12 Days of Christmas in the comments

12/18/2025

South Carolina’s life sciences sector continues to grow, and the strength behind that momentum is a skilled, future-ready workforce. 🌟

At SCbio’s Life + Science 2026 Conference, presented in partnership with Quest Diagnostics , industry leaders will explore what it takes to build and sustain that talent.

📣 The session “Catalyzing Economic Growth in South Carolina’s Life Sciences,” powered by Charleston County Economic Development, will dive into new models for training, recruitment and retention that support long-term industry success.

🌴 Ready to take part in South Carolina’s largest life sciences gathering? Meet the panelists and secure your spot at The Gaillard Center on February 18, 2026.

Link to register in comments! 👇

12/16/2025

Congratulations to CRDA CEO David Ginn and VP of Economic Development Megan Anderson on being named to SC BIZ's inaugural South Carolina 500 list in the Economic Development category. This recognition reflects their leadership, vision, and continued commitment to strengthening our regional economy.

We are also proud to congratulate our wonderful county partners recognized alongside them:

• John O. Williams, Berkeley County Government
• Merle Johnson, Charleston County Economic Development
• John Truluck, Dorchester County Economic Development

Economic development is truly a team effort, and this list highlights the collaborative leadership shaping opportunity and long-term impact across the Tri-County region and throughout South Carolina.

Read more here: https://loom.ly/S3RYp2E

12/16/2025

South Carolina’s innovation ecosystem continues to grow. 🚀

South Carolina Research Authority - SCRA has welcomed a new group of member companies from across the state, representing sectors that range from biotech and advanced materials to real estate tech, AI platforms and next generation defense solutions. Several startups also received new grant funding to advance their research and product development.

Member companies receive access to coaching, resources and the opportunity to apply for grants and potential investment through SC Launch Inc, supporting a stronger statewide innovation economy.

CRDA celebrates the continued momentum across South Carolina’s tech and life science communities and the partnerships that help founders grow here.

Link to press release in comments ⬇️

12/15/2025

Big conservation news for our region. 🌿

The 67-acre Barry Tract along the Ashley River Road National Scenic Byway is now permanently protected, thanks to Lowcountry Land Trust and a strong coalition of partners. Dorchester County will steward the land as a future public park with access to the Ashley River.

This preservation effort protects vital habitats, strengthens resilience, and safeguards important cultural history discovered through archaeological research. It is also the first project funded through the Dorchester County Greenbelt Program.

CRDA is proud to celebrate the partners who helped ensure this landscape will serve the community for generations.

Details via SC BIZ in comments.

12/12/2025

Charleston’s tech sector continues to rise. 🚀

The Charleston Digital's 2025 Wage & Job Growth Survey reports an average tech wage of $130,522 - the highest on record and more than double regional and statewide averages.

Key insights:
• 50% of companies added jobs in 2025
• 40% expect to hire in 2026
• Remote/in-office mixes vary widely, reflecting a flexible, resilient workforce
• Workspace needs remain steady

Despite broader economic uncertainty, Charleston’s tech economy remains strong, supported by major national investment, homegrown startup success, and companies expanding into the region.

CRDA is proud to help build a competitive, innovation-driven ecosystem for the Charleston region. Read more from Charleston Digital: https://loom.ly/k9RnQII

The Charleston Digital Corridor (CDC) announced today that companies participating in its 2025 Annual Wage & Job Growth Survey reported an average per-capita wa

12/11/2025

South Carolina is strengthening its cybersecurity future. 🔐

Governor Henry McMaster has announced the new Center for Cybersecurity at South Carolina Research Authority - SCRA, which will lead the implementation of the state’s comprehensive cybersecurity strategic plan.

Built from a multi-year statewide study, the plan focuses on enhancing cybersecurity across education, workforce development, defense partnerships, economic growth, and government and business resilience. Led by expert Brian Shea, the Center will coordinate 20 key initiatives beginning in January.

This “whole-of-state” effort positions South Carolina to build a more secure, competitive, and innovation-ready future.

Read more: https://loom.ly/brX95gI

Governor Henry McMaster today announced the creation of the new Center for Cybersecurity at the South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA).

12/10/2025

Applications are now open for SCbio & MassBio's Spring 2026 cohort of Drive, a national accelerator for early-stage biotech and biomarker/diagnostic startups.

This cycle, MassBio will lead the biotech track while SCbio facilitates the biomarkers/diagnostics track - each designed to support scientific founders with tailored mentorship, industry connections, and an 8-week expert-led curriculum.

📅 Apply by January 16, 2026
📍 Program runs March 23 – May 15, with Demo Days in Charleston and Boston

Drive is ideal for founders who have raised < $1.5M, have access to their IP, and are ready to strengthen their business literacy, networks, and pathways to commercialization.

Since 2022, Drive has supported 59 startups, helping them raise $64M and create nearly 100 jobs.

👉 Apply here: https://loom.ly/jh--MnY

SCbio and MassBio are pleased to announce that applications are now open for the Spring 2026 cohort of Drive, the national accelerator supporting scientific

12/09/2025

Another win for Charleston’s tech economy!

Modus21 LLC is expanding in North Charleston with a $1.1M investment and 80 new tech and consulting jobs. The company has enhanced its corporate facilities and Cloud Innovation Lab to support continued growth in systems engineering, software development, cloud computing, and cybersecurity.

This project is supported by a $50,000 Set-Aside grant awarded to Charleston County.

Congratulations to Modus21 for helping strengthen a diverse, innovation-driven regional economy. 👏👏👏

Learn more: https://loom.ly/M_ygn7Y

Tech consulting firm expands in Charleston County

12/08/2025

Affordable housing isn’t just a national challenge - it’s a regional priority right here in the Lowcountry.

On Friday, CRDA’s Jason Brown joined SC Public Radio’s Mike Switzer to discuss the Charleston Workforce Housing Fund, a new $50 million initiative to expand affordable and workforce housing across Charleston, Berkeley, and Dorchester counties.

As our region continues to grow, ensuring that teachers, healthcare workers, hospitality teams, first responders, and other essential members of our community can live where they work is critical. This initiative reflects a shared commitment to creating long-term, sustainable solutions that support both our residents and our economy.

🎧 Listen to the full interview: https://loom.ly/JLjch4w

12/05/2025

Looking for the perfect holiday outing or team-get-together this season? Here are a few festive events around the Charleston region ready to fill your calendar with cheer, light, and connection. 🎄✨

🎄 Holiday Festival of Lights (Nov 14–Dec 31) — At James Island County Park, this annual tradition features millions of lights, stroll-through displays, and a perfect festive outing for families and friends alike.

🏛️ Christmas at Drayton Hall — December 5–7 and December 19–21. Step into historic holiday celebrations in a stunning antebellum setting.

🛍️ Holy City Holiday Market — December 19–21 in Old Park Circle. Browse local makers, holiday décor, treats, and one-of-a-kind gifts.

✨ Chanukah in the Square — December 14 from 4–6 PM. A joyful cultural celebration in downtown Charleston.

🎶 Holiday Pops at the Gaillard Center — Mid-December. A beloved seasonal concert featuring the Charleston Symphony, classic holiday music, and a cheerful night out downtown.

⛵ Charleston Parade of Boats — December 14. A sparkling display of decorated boats cruising through Charleston Harbor for one of the city’s most iconic holiday traditions.

Which one will you attend? Let us know! ⬇️

12/04/2025

The 2026 DIG SOUTH Tech, Venture & AI Summit is gearing up to be one of the most impactful gatherings yet, bringing together founders, investors, industry leaders, and talent from across the Southeast.

DIG SOUTH remains a cornerstone event for Charleston’s innovation ecosystem, creating space for big ideas, strategic connections, and real opportunities for growth. CRDA is proud to be a supporting partner once again as this event continues to elevate the region’s innovation landscape.

If you’re looking to plug into the networks shaping the future of tech and entrepreneurship in the Southeast, this is the place to be.

Early badges are now available at dignation.co