IT / Tech

Charleston is routinely included on lists of the “next Silicon Valleys” and has emerged as a desirable location for a wide range of technology-based companies and workers. The area is now home to more than 400 tech companies that are driving innovations across a wide range of digitally-enabled industries. Home grown successes like Blackbaud, Phish Labs  and Benefitfocus, along with satellite operations of Google, Infosys and other international firms show the growth potential of locating in the Charleston area. Local entrepreneurs — supported by organizations like the Charleston Digital Corridor and Harbor Entrepreneur Center, as well as efficient access to both locally based and national venture capital firms, banks and investors —  are thriving. The 2021 opening of The Charleston Tech Center in downtown will add to the vibrant tech ecosystem developing in the Lowcountry. A growing pipeline of locally trained engineering talent from the state’s university systems, including the expansion of the engineering program at the College of Charleston, as well as a steady migration of talent from around the country and world, boosts workforce development. And Charleston’s combination of high quality of life and low cost of living on national scales increases its attractiveness as the tech industry evolves to a more distributed workforce model in the post-Covid era.

“Charleston’s commitment to investing in business infrastructure to support the tech and life science industry combined with the region’s renowned livability is a big factor in our ability to attract talent for our company.”  – Scotty Branch, Co-Founder, Vikor Scientific, LLC 

“Our headquarters and primary office will always be here in Charleston County. It’s a great place to work and grow our business. Most importantly, Charleston is a big draw for technical talent and, in our IT support and consulting business, people are everything.” – Willis Cantey, CEO, Cantey Tech Consulting