Charleston Regional Development Alliance

Charleston Regional Development Alliance Helping businesses, entrepreneurs and talented people locate and expand in the greater Charleston metro area.

For three decades, Charleston Regional Development Alliance (CRDA) has helped catalyze long-term regional prosperity by attracting the world’s best companies, talent, and entrepreneurs. We’re a robust network of investors, staff, business, academic, and governmental partners committed to strengthening regional employment and building a base of high-value industries to strengthen the three-county region’s economy into the future.

A stronger local food system supports both healthier communities and South Carolina’s agricultural economy. 💪🌽Charleston...
03/13/2026

A stronger local food system supports both healthier communities and South Carolina’s agricultural economy. 💪🌽

Charleston County School District has launched the state’s Certified SC Cafeteria initiative, bringing locally grown ingredients into school meals while supporting South Carolina farmers.

The program, funded by the S.C. Department of Agriculture, connects schools with farms such as Edisto Island’s Marsh Hen Mill and Rooting Down Farms, helping students enjoy fresh, seasonal foods while keeping more food dollars in the state.

By strengthening connections between agriculture, education, and local supply chains, initiatives like this support healthier communities and a more resilient regional economy 🌾

➡️ Which local favorite would you pick for school lunch?
Carolina Gold rice 🍚
Fresh peaches 🍑
Stone-ground grits 🌽

Global demand for products made in South Carolina continues to grow - and the Charleston region plays a key role in conn...
03/12/2026

Global demand for products made in South Carolina continues to grow - and the Charleston region plays a key role in connecting those products to markets around the world.

South Carolina’s 2025 export sales reached $38.5 billion, the highest level in seven years, according to the U.S. Department of Commerce. The state again ranked #1 in the nation for exports of completed passenger vehicles and tires, with motor vehicles, aircraft, and machinery among the top export categories.

Much of that global trade moves through SC Ports, where efficient port operations help advanced manufacturers, agricultural producers, and businesses across the Charleston region reach customers in nearly 200 countries and territories.

Strong exports reflect the continued strength of South Carolina’s advanced manufacturing sector and the global competitiveness of products made here 🌎

Four South Carolina technology companies have received new grant funding from the South Carolina Research Authority - SC...
03/11/2026

Four South Carolina technology companies have received new grant funding from the South Carolina Research Authority - SCRA, while seven additional firms have joined the organization as member companies. 💡

The funded companies are advancing technologies in artificial intelligence, industrial sensing, automation, and data-driven tools for business and healthcare. Notably, North Charleston-based Atapic is among the startups receiving support for its AI-powered lead generation platform.

🚀 Programs like SCRA’s startup and acceleration grants help early-stage companies scale, attract investment, and bring new technologies to market while strengthening South Carolina’s innovation economy and talent pipeline.

A big moment for global trade - and for the Charleston region. 🌎🚢The OOCL Lavender, one of the largest container vessels...
03/10/2026

A big moment for global trade - and for the Charleston region. 🌎🚢

The OOCL Lavender, one of the largest container vessels in the world, has made her maiden call at the Port of Charleston.

Now part of the South Atlantic Express Service, Charleston serves as the final U.S. port of call before the vessel departs for Asia, providing manufacturers and exporters in our region with faster, more efficient access to global markets.

This is more than a ship arrival. It’s a reflection of the Port of Charleston’s critical role in global commerce and its ability to support the scale and speed modern industry demands. From advanced manufacturing to logistics, this connectivity helps power opportunity across the Charleston region and reinforces our position on the global stage. ⚓

📸: South Carolina Ports Authority

Innovation is showing up in unexpected places - including our sidewalks. ♻️Dorchester County is piloting a new type of s...
03/06/2026

Innovation is showing up in unexpected places - including our sidewalks. ♻️

Dorchester County is piloting a new type of sidewalk made entirely from recycled plastic in The Ponds community, offering a more durable and sustainable alternative to traditional concrete.

Unlike conventional sidewalks that crack under pressure from tree roots, these interlocking panels are designed to flex and move, reducing long-term maintenance costs while preserving the tree canopy that makes communities more livable.

It’s a small example of a bigger trend: communities across the Charleston region are exploring smarter, more sustainable infrastructure solutions that balance growth, resilience, and quality of life.

Ideas like this don’t just support neighborhoods. They support the kind of forward-thinking environment that attracts talent, investment, and innovation.

Strong leadership and long-term vision were front and center at this quarter's CRDA Board Meeting.We were honored to wel...
03/05/2026

Strong leadership and long-term vision were front and center at this quarter's CRDA Board Meeting.

We were honored to welcome Micah Mallace President and CEO of South Carolina Ports Authority, who shared insights into the Ports’ long-term vision and what comes next for one of the region’s most powerful economic engines.

From strategic infrastructure investments and expanded capacity to global competitiveness and supply chain resilience, SC Ports continues to position the Charleston region as a critical gateway for international trade.

We’re grateful for the leadership and partnership that keeps the Charleston region moving forward.

The Charleston Wine + Food Festival kicks off today. 🍷For nearly two decades, this event has showcased one of the Charle...
03/04/2026

The Charleston Wine + Food Festival kicks off today. 🍷

For nearly two decades, this event has showcased one of the Charleston region’s greatest strengths - its culinary talent.

Its impact goes far beyond the plate. Events like this support local businesses, create opportunities for chefs and entrepreneurs, and reinforce the Charleston region’s reputation as a place where creativity and commerce thrive.

From hospitality and tourism to small business growth, the culinary sector continues to play an important role in the region’s economy.

There’s still time to be part of it. Explore the remaining events and get tickets while they last. ⬇️

A great conversation with a leader shaping one of Charleston’s most exciting global events. 🎾At last week's CRDA Board M...
03/03/2026

A great conversation with a leader shaping one of Charleston’s most exciting global events. 🎾

At last week's CRDA Board Meeting, we welcomed Bob Moran, President of Beemok Sports & Entertainment, for an inside look at the impact and growth of the Credit One Charleston Open.

From attracting world-class talent to play on the courts, to driving tourism and international visibility for the region, this premier tennis event continues to elevate Charleston on a global stage — both on and off the court.

South Carolina makes some seriously impressive things. ⚙️The Top 16 have officially been announced in “Manufacturing Mad...
03/02/2026

South Carolina makes some seriously impressive things. ⚙️

The Top 16 have officially been announced in “Manufacturing Madness: The Coolest Thing Made in South Carolina,” a statewide celebration of the products and people behind our manufacturing strength.

Manufacturing continues to be a cornerstone of the Charleston region’s economy, supporting high-impact careers and advancing innovation across industries.

Now it’s time to vote and show your support! Link in comments ⬇️

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The Charleston region continues to attract talent from across the country and around the world, with people choosing to ...
02/27/2026

The Charleston region continues to attract talent from across the country and around the world, with people choosing to build their careers and lives here.

📣 If you’ve recently relocated to the Charleston region for a job, we’d love to hear from you. What made the opportunity here stand out? Was it the career growth, the industry, the community, or something else?

Share your story in the comments. ⬇️

A major investment in resilience and quality of place has reached an important milestone in the Charleston region. 👏👏👏Th...
02/26/2026

A major investment in resilience and quality of place has reached an important milestone in the Charleston region. 👏👏👏

The City of Charleston has completed the $71M restoration of the historic Low Battery seawall, strengthening protection against storm surge and tidal flooding while enhancing one of the region’s most iconic public spaces. City leadership emphasized this project is just the beginning of a broader, long-term effort to protect the peninsula.

Projects like this help safeguard critical infrastructure, support long-term economic vitality, and ensure the Charleston peninsula remains a place where people and businesses can thrive.

Read more from The Post and Courier in comments below ⬇️

📸: The Post and Courier

Charleston-based Blackbaud continues to invest in workforce development and economic opportunity on a global scale with ...
02/25/2026

Charleston-based Blackbaud continues to invest in workforce development and economic opportunity on a global scale with the announcement of a multi-year, six-figure contribution to Generation: You Employed, a nonprofit focused on helping people build skills and access meaningful careers. 💼🌟

The partnership will support AI-driven training tools designed to expand access to high-quality workforce programs and meet the needs of a rapidly evolving labor market.

It’s another example of how Charleston region companies are leveraging technology and leadership to help create pathways to opportunity worldwide.

Learn more at the link in comments ⬇️

Address

65 Fairchild Street, Ste 100
Charleston, SC
29492

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 5pm
Tuesday 8am - 5pm
Wednesday 8am - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 5pm

Telephone

+18437679300

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