Charleston County Economic Development

10/23/2026

Big news for Charleston travelers! ✈️

United announced a new nonstop flight connecting Charleston International Airport to San Francisco International Airport (SFO), launching in March 2027.

This direct coast‑to‑coast route further elevates Charleston’s reputation as a world‑class, rapidly growing economy. By improving access to the Bay Area's leading innovation and technology market, it reinforces our region's position as a premier destination.

Learn more: https://bit.ly/4BoItHH

10/22/2026

Everyday STEM Saturdays are back at the Charleston Learning Center!

This Saturday, October 24, Charleston Digital invites middle schoolers around the region to explore computer science, cybersecurity, robotics, engineering, and real-world career pathways. This week's session will dive into the basics of cybersecurity, designed to spark curiosity and build confidence in one of today’s most essential fields.

Know a student who could benefit from this experience? Learn more today: https://www.charlestonlc.org/classes/students/everyday-stem-saturday-october/

10/21/2026

Charleston County's business landscape is growing!

This month's quarterly newsletter will share recent project wins, key data and insights, business resources, and important announcements that support economic growth across our community.

Stay connected to what’s shaping our local economy by signing up on our website today.
https://bit.ly/3TOQ8OI

10/20/2026

Charleston continues to shine on the national stage! We’re proud to share that Condé Nast Traveler has named Charleston the “Best Small City in the U.S.” for the 15th time in the past 16 years as part of the 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards.

This recognition highlights Charleston’s unmatched quality of life, thriving economy, and a tourism and hospitality sector driven by world‑class service.

Learn more about the Charleston advantage: https://bit.ly/47n3FAc

10/16/2026

Did you hear the news? New biotech jobs and advanced disease research have landed in Charleston County! 🎉

Meet Obatala Sciences, Inc! We’re proud to welcome this leader in creating human‑derived stem cells and advanced tissue models that help researchers better understand diseases and develop new treatments.

This investment strengthens Charleston County’s position as a hub for biotechnology, talent, and next‑generation medical research. ⚛️🔬

10/15/2026

In recognition of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we are proud to celebrate our talented Charleston County workforce whose impact helps move our region forward.

This week, Palmetto Goodwill hosted an NDEAM art exhibit, giving more than 20 employees the opportunity to showcase and sell their skilled artwork.

As one of South Carolina’s largest employers of people with disabilities, we applaud Palmetto Goodwill’s ongoing mission to close the gap in access to opportunity and ensure every individual has the chance to succeed.

Learn more about the exhibit here: https://bit.ly/4hZnzWB

Palmetto Goodwill employees shared their artistic talents during a gallery exhibition for National Disability Employment Awareness Month.

10/14/2026

Charleston County Economic Development was proud to sponsor and participate in the Charleston Defense Contractors Association's 75th Strategic Business Industry Outreach Initiative (SBIOI), a premier gathering that connects government and industry to drive innovation across the Defense Industrial Base.

Our Executive Director, Merle Johnson, presented to more than 500 attendees, highlighting Charleston County's role as a premier defense economy and how our dedicated workforce, strong military assets and thriving high‑tech cluster of defense contractors continue to drive this growth.

We’re grateful to connect with our partners at this year's event as we work together to support and strengthen Charleston’s defense ecosystem.

10/13/2026

If your company is looking to start government contracting or expand existing opportunities, be sure to attend the SC Small Business Development Centers 2026 Procurement Conference on October 27!

This biennial event brings together 25+ confirmed buyer organizations — including federal, state, and local agencies as well as major prime contractors. It’s a great chance to make meaningful connections, learn about upcoming contracting opportunities, and get insights to help your business grow.

Event Details
Tuesday, October 27, 2026
65 Fairchild | Daniel Island, Charleston, SC
General registration deadline: Friday, October 23
For procurement/buyer participation, the registration deadline is Monday, October 19.

Learn more: https://bit.ly/4ygqHU6

10/13/2026

Congratulations to Obatala Sciences, Inc. on their ribbon-cutting and official launch at Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC)'s Blue Sky Labs in Charleston.

Our team is proud to champion their growth as they join Charleston County’s rapidly expanding life sciences ecosystem.

10/08/2026

We are excited to announce that Obatala Sciences, Inc has selected Charleston County for its first East Coast operation!

Based in New Orleans, Obatala Sciences develops and manufactures biomaterials, stem cells, media and advanced tissue models to support preclinical medical research. The company’s new operations at Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC)'s Blue Sky Labs represents a $656,000 investment and will bring 46 new jobs and training opportunities in biotechnology and related fields.

“Congratulations to Obatala Sciences on expanding its presence to Charleston County. This investment adds meaningful momentum to the region’s growing life sciences sector and strengthens our progress toward a thriving environment that delivers both economic opportunity and improved health outcomes for our community.”
-Charleston County Council Chairman Joe Boykin

Read the full announcement here: https://bit.ly/4ziVb8Y