Charleston County Economic Development is excited to launch its Job Development Incentive (JDI), a new program that strengthens Charleston County’s economic competitiveness by improving job creation, increasing wages, and reducing commercial vacancies.
The program supports incoming and existing industry seeking to create new jobs by offering financial incentives that reduce hiring and training costs, ease expansion plans, and ultimately enhance workforce quality and long‑term productivity.
Eligible companies can receive $1,000 for every new qualifying job created, with a minimum of five new jobs required to participate.
Jobs interested in applying must meet the following criteria:
Companies interested in participating must submit an application to Charleston County Economic Development.
Download the CCED Job Development Incentive Application
To submit your application or learn more, contact Gene Borzendowski, Director of Global Business Development.
A new economic impact study conducted by University of South Carolina Research Economist Dr. Joseph Von Nessen found that companies that have located and grown in Charleston County through Charleston County Economic Development’s efforts now support 79,241 jobs and generate $26.2 billion in annual economic activity across the county.
Presented to Charleston County Council on June 4, the study quantifies the cumulative impact of CCED’s work since its founding in 1993 and demonstrates how strategic economic development investments have strengthened the County’s economy, supported local businesses, and generated revenue for essential public services.
Among the study’s key findings:
“The study shows that economic development matters,” said Dr. Joseph Von Nessen. “Charleston County has built significant economic momentum over the past three decades. The opportunity moving forward is to continue building on that momentum in ways that support local businesses, create opportunities for residents, and strengthen Charleston County’s long-term prosperity.”
The study found that the benefits of economic development extend far beyond the companies making announcements. Ninety-two percent of CCED-supported economic activity remains within Charleston County, supporting local suppliers, service providers, retailers, restaurants, construction firms, and other businesses throughout the community.
Small businesses, in particular, play a significant role in the County’s economic success. According to the study, CCED-supported activity generates $3.3 billion in annual economic activity for businesses with fewer than 20 employees and supports approximately 16,000 small business jobs. While large employers often receive the most public attention, more than 70 percent of CCED-supported economic activity benefits small and mid-sized businesses throughout Charleston County.
“Economic development is ultimately about creating opportunities and strengthening communities,” said Merle Johnson, Executive Director of Charleston County Economic Development. “This study shows that the benefits extend far beyond major employers, supporting local businesses, generating revenue for essential services, and creating higher-paying career opportunities for Charleston County residents.”
The study also found that jobs directly created through CCED-supported projects pay an average wage of $111,692 annually, representing a 63 percent wage premium compared to the countywide average wage.
“One of the most important findings from this study is that the benefits of economic development are broadly shared,” said Ashley Richardson, Deputy Director of Charleston County Economic Development. “Economic development is about more than recruiting companies. It’s about supporting existing businesses, creating career opportunities for residents, strengthening our tax base, and ensuring Charleston County remains a place where businesses and families can thrive.”
The study also examined the fiscal impact of economic development activity on County taxpayers. According to the analysis, CCED-supported activity generates $123.1 million annually for County services. Without this economic activity, significant increases in residential property taxes could be required to maintain current revenue levels.
Conducted by the Darla Moore School of Business at the University of South Carolina, the study evaluates the direct, indirect, and induced impacts generated by businesses that have announced locations or expansions in Charleston County with CCED assistance since 1993. The findings reinforce a key message from the study: economic development matters, and the benefits are felt throughout Charleston County by businesses, workers, residents, and taxpayers alike.
Read the full report here: https://tinyurl.com/46ehdtp2
About Charleston County Economic Development
For over three decades, Charleston County Economic Development Department has been dedicated to establishing and maintaining business relationships with new and existing industries to preserve the Charleston area’s exceptional business climate and quality of place. To learn more about Charleston County Economic Development, visit www.charlestoncountydevelopment.org.
Blog
December 4, 2025
Dayton Ward, Project Coordinator for Charleston County Economic Development, has been named to Charleston Business Magazine’s 2025 Best & Brightest 35 and Under list, recognizing his leadership, impact, and commitment to the region.
Blog
December 4, 2025
Charleston County welcomes Kedyky “KK” Sherrill as Director of Community Competitiveness, leading initiatives that strengthen economic growth through quality-of-place, workforce development, and community-focused strategies.
Blog
October 21, 2025
Maars North America will establish its first U.S. production operation in Charleston County, investing $3M and creating 10+ jobs. The Mount Pleasant facility will support growing demand and feature a showroom for its architectural wall solutions.
Horse Spot, a premier equestrian technology platform, today announced it is expanding its operations in Charleston County. The company’s investment will create 11 new jobs.
Founded in 2022, Horse Spot is designed to modernize and simplify competition management for equestrian events and supports more than 1,800 horse shows, rodeos and fairs annually. The platform allows event organizers to manage an entire show from a single system, including entries, scheduling, payments and results.
Horse Spot is expanding its operation, located at 997 Morrison Drive in Charleston, to deepen its footprint in the Lowcountry and bring its platform to more competitions across the Carolinas.
Operations are already online. Individuals interested in joining the Horse Spot team should visit the company’s careers page.
QUOTES
“We grew up in the saddle and built careers in tech, finance and design. When we landed in Charleston and found a community that understood both worlds, we knew this was where Horse Spot was meant to be built.”
-Horse Spot CEO and Technical Co-Founder Christopher Lenard
“We are proud to see a technology company like Horse Spot deepening its commitment to our state. This announcement is a testament to the strength of South Carolina’s skilled workforce, and we look forward to supporting Horse Spot’s latest chapter in Charleston County.”
-Gov. Henry McMaster
“Congratulations to Horse Spot and Charleston County on this expansion that will bring 11 new job opportunities to the local community. We are proud to see the company continuing to grow, thrive and build its legacy in South Carolina’s Lowcountry.”
-Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III
“Horse Spot’s expansion marks an exciting new chapter for Charleston County. By combining advanced technology with equestrian sport, their investment supports an industry that has been a longstanding tradition our community. We look forward to Horse Spot’s continued momentum and growth.”
-Charleston County Council Chairman Joe Boykin
“This expansion is a testament to what’s possible when our city, county, and state work together. Charleston is becoming the place companies want to be, and we’re proud to keep bringing quality tech jobs to our community.”
-City of Charleston Mayor William Cogswell
“Horse Spot’s expansion underscores the strength of our growing innovation economy in Charleston County. We are proud to support their continued investment and look forward to the impact their growth will bring to the County.”
-Charleston County Economic Development Director Merle Johnson
“We congratulate Charleston County Economic Development on this announcement. In addition to the investment we made into the company, their success was demonstrated in Charlotte when they recently made history by winning the founder and investor panels, securing $100,000 at Seed the South, which we’re proud to sponsor. Horse Spot’s growth is a win for Charleston County, the local economy, and the Charleston area’s expanding technology footprint.”
-South Carolina Research Authority CEO Bill Kirkland
“Horse Spot is yet another example of Charleston’s thriving innovation economy – a company that is rapidly modernizing the equestrian industry, has successfully raised capital from within South Carolina and is hiring aggressively to meet their business objectives.”
-Charleston Digital Executive Director Ernest Andrade
FIVE FAST FACTS
Announcement
July 2, 2026
Charleston County Economic Development is excited to launch its Job Development Incentive (JDI), a new program to support business growth and strengthen the region’s economic competitiveness.
Announcement
June 17, 2026
A new economic impact study conducted by University of South Carolina Research Economist Dr. Joseph Von Nessen found that companies that have located and grown in Charleston County through Charleston County Economic Development's efforts now support 79,241 jobs and generate $26.2 billion in annual economic activity across the county.
Red Metals, a next-generation copper manufacturer, today announced it is establishing its first copper manufacturing operation in Charleston County. The company’s $70 million investment is expected to create at least 45 new jobs.
Copper is a critical input for electrical infrastructure, data centers, electrification, advanced manufacturing and defense applications. S&P Global projects global copper demand will nearly double by 2035, driven by electrification, renewable energy, electric vehicles and digital infrastructure.
Red Metals is building a new domestic supply chain for copper products by converting copper raw materials directly into finished goods through an integrated refining and manufacturing process. The company’s Charleston County facility will serve as its first production operation.
Located at 4500 Leeds Ave. in North Charleston, the company’s 42,000-square-foot facility will manufacture high-conductivity copper rod used in wire, cable and other electrical applications. The operation is designed to strengthen domestic manufacturing capacity and deliver essential copper products with shorter lead times and reduced supply chain complexity.
Operations are expected to come online in the fourth quarter of 2026. Engineers, operators and other entrepreneurial builders interested in joining the Red Metals team should visit redmetals.com to learn more.
The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project.
QUOTES
“Red Metals is building a modern domestic supply of copper products at a time when reliable industrial infrastructure has never been more critical. Charleston County gives us the foundation to scale a new model for copper refining and manufacturing, in close proximity to both the sources of supply and the industries that depend on it. We’re excited to invest in the region, create high-quality jobs and help support the next generation of American manufacturing, energy and defense.”
-Red Metals Founder and CEO Jackson Switzer
“We are proud to welcome Red Metals to South Carolina and further strengthen our state’s manufacturing industry. With the addition of 45 jobs in Charleston County, this investment marks another win for our state and our workforce.”
-Gov. Henry McMaster
“Congratulations to Red Metals on establishing its first operations in Charleston County. The company’s investment of $70 million reflects the strength of South Carolina’s economy and workforce.”
-Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III
“Red Metals’ decision to bring its copper manufacturing to Charleston County delivers a significant advantage for several of our key industries that rely on this essential material. Aside from strengthening the supply chain for neighboring businesses, this investment also brings high-quality jobs to advance our workforce as it continues to grow.”
-Charleston County Chairman Joe Boykin
“We’re pleased to welcome Red Metals to the Charleston region. Their investment reflects the continued momentum we’re seeing across Charleston and the strength of our regional partnerships. We appreciate their commitment to our community and look forward to supporting their success as they grow here.”
-Charleston Regional Development Alliance Board Chairman Will Russell
“Red Metals decision to establish operations in North Charleston is another strong example of why companies continue to choose our city for investment and innovation. This $70 million investment and the creation of 45 new jobs will strengthen our local economy, support American manufacturing and create new opportunities for our residents. We are proud to welcome Red Metals to North Charleston and look forward to their long-term success in our community.”
-City of North Charleston Mayor Reggie Burgess
“Red Metals’ decision to bring its copper production to Charleston County delivers a significant advantage for several of our key industries that rely on this essential material. Aside from strengthening the supply chain for neighboring businesses, this investment also brings high-quality jobs to advance our workforce as it continues to grow.”
-Charleston County Chairman Joe Boykin
“As a national leader in finished copper production, Red Metals’ investment will deliver high‑quality jobs, strengthen domestic supply chains, and provide the essential materials that power our existing industries, including defense. We look forward to Red Metals helping accelerate the growth of our local workforce and the industries that depend on it.”
-Charleston County Economic Development Director Merle Johnson
FIVE FAST FACTS
Announcement
July 2, 2026
Charleston County Economic Development is excited to launch its Job Development Incentive (JDI), a new program to support business growth and strengthen the region’s economic competitiveness.
Announcement
June 17, 2026
A new economic impact study conducted by University of South Carolina Research Economist Dr. Joseph Von Nessen found that companies that have located and grown in Charleston County through Charleston County Economic Development's efforts now support 79,241 jobs and generate $26.2 billion in annual economic activity across the county.
Bittermilk Bottling Co. (Bittermilk), a manufacturer of nonalcoholic beverage products, today announced it is expanding its operations in Charleston County. The company’s $8.2 million investment will create 12 new jobs.
Founded in 2013, Bittermilk produces various brands of nonalcoholic cocktail mixers and complex syrups. The family-owned and -operated business uses all-natural ingredients to manufacture the products at its current facility in North Charleston.
Bittermilk is relocating to a new 12,000-square-foot facility, located at 5340 Savannah Highway in Ravenel, allowing the company to significantly increase production capacity and continue to meet growing demand.
Operations are expected to be online in summer 2026. Individuals interested in joining the Bittermilk team should contact the company (drink@bittermilk.com).
QUOTES
We’re proud to continue growing Bittermilk in Charleston County, where our business began and where we’ve built strong roots over the past two decades. Being born and raised in Charleston, and growing up in the food and beverage industry here, has given us a deep appreciation for this community. It’s an honor to keep building our future here while continuing to make high-quality, American-made products.”
-Bittermilk Owner and Co-Founder MariElena Raya
“Our new Ravenel facility will give us the space to expand our production capacity, create new jobs, and continue crafting the high-quality products our customers know and love. As a family business, we’re building a legacy our children can grow into and a company that continues to support our employees, vendors and retailers. We’re equally excited to use this space to collaborate with like-minded brands on custom projects that fuel mutual growth.”
-Bittermilk Owner and Co-Founder Joe Raya
“Bittermilk’s expansion in Charleston County is another example of the success South Carolina businesses are finding across our state. The addition of 12 new jobs is a win for the Lowcountry, and we congratulate Bittermilk on their continued success.”
-Gov. Henry McMaster
“Congratulations to Bittermilk on expanding its manufacturing operations in the Lowcountry. With an investment of $8.2 million in Charleston County, the company is strengthening South Carolina’s economic development landscape.”
-Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III
“Bittermilk is a South Carolina success story, and their expansion is great news for the state. Forward-looking small agribusinesses are essential to the future of the industry, and we celebrate their growth.”
-Commissioner of Agriculture Hugh Weathers
“Bittermilk’s expansion underscores how Charleston County is both an ideal location to establish operations and plan next step opportunities that support long-term growth. This investment in Ravenel brings significant potential for future facility development, while creating highquality workforce opportunities and new amenities for the community.”
-Charleston County Council Chairman Joe Boykin
“Bittermilk’s expansion is a powerful example of how strategic planning for long-term growth defines Charleston County’s economic success. This project strengthens our local talent pipeline, expands opportunities for workforce advancement, and strengthens quality of place experience for residents. We look forward to welcoming Bittermilk’s expansion to the Ravenel community.”
-Charleston County Economic Development Director Merle Johnson
“The town of Ravenel is excited to welcome Bittermilk to our growing business community. Bittermilk brings a commitment to excellence and a passion to grow with Ravenel and integrate into our community. They will bring high-quality production jobs that will provide future employment opportunities for our residents.”
-Town of Ravenel Mayor Steve Tumbleston
###
Announcement
July 2, 2026
Charleston County Economic Development is excited to launch its Job Development Incentive (JDI), a new program to support business growth and strengthen the region’s economic competitiveness.
Announcement
June 17, 2026
A new economic impact study conducted by University of South Carolina Research Economist Dr. Joseph Von Nessen found that companies that have located and grown in Charleston County through Charleston County Economic Development's efforts now support 79,241 jobs and generate $26.2 billion in annual economic activity across the county.
AVM Group, a leading national provider of turnkey controlled environments, today announced it is establishing its national headquarters in Charleston County. The company’s $5 million investment will create 30 new jobs.
Founded in 1983, AVM Group designs, engineers and installs controlled environments, specializing in cleanrooms, dry rooms, sensitive compartmented information facilities (SCIFs), and advanced electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radiation shielding.
At its new 12,000-square-foot headquarters facility, located on Wingo Way in Mount Pleasant, AVM Group will conduct design, engineering, and research and development operations for new controlled environment construction projects. The company’s South Carolina operation will also support specialized operational and manufacturing functions conducted at its existing site in Ohio.
Operations are expected to be online in 2027. Individuals interested in joining the AVM Group team should visit the company’s careers page or contact careers@avmgroup.com.
The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project. The council also awarded a $200,000 Set-Aside grant to Charleston County to assist with the costs of site preparation and building construction.
QUOTES
“Our new headquarters on Wingo Way represents a pivotal bridge between our company’s storied history and its ambitious future. This state-of-the-art facility will serve as the collaborative heart of our leadership team, providing the space and inspiration necessary to drive our next chapter of growth. Our goal is to create a facility that exists in harmony with its surroundings — utilizing sustainable building practices that protect the local ecosystem and preserve the environmental integrity of the land. We are proud to call the Lowcountry home and remain committed to being a responsible neighbor and a long-term contributor to the economic vitality of the area and its residents.”
-AVM Group CEO Trip Textoris
“AVM Group’s decision to establish its national headquarters in Charleston County is a win for South Carolina. This $5 million investment and the addition of 30 high-quality jobs will have a meaningful impact on the Lowcountry and support continued opportunity across our state.”
-Gov. Henry McMaster
“By establishing its national headquarters in Charleston County, AVM Group is supporting economic development in one of our state’s growing industries. We welcome AVM Group to South Carolina and look forward to seeing the company’s success in the Palmetto State.”
-Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III
“AVM Group’s decision to locate its national headquarters in Charleston County highlights the strength of our business community and the strategic benefits of our region. This project creates high-quality jobs, brings innovative industry expertise and demonstrates a commitment to responsible growth, values that closely align with the priorities of our council and residents. We are proud to welcome AVM Group to the Lowcountry and look forward to supporting its long-term success in our community.”
-Charleston County Council Chairman Joe Boykin
“This project reflects the kind of investment we want to encourage in Mount Pleasant. It brings quality jobs and meaningful private investment while incorporating thoughtful design and environmental considerations. Allowing public amenities like a walking trail and pocket park will also provide a benefit to the broader community as the project moves forward.”
-Mount Pleasant Mayor Will Haynie
“AVM Group’s headquarters investment strengthens a key specialty sector in Charleston County and brings high-skilled jobs to our community. This is the kind of focused growth that keeps our economy moving forward.”
-Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Merle Johnson
FIVE FAST FACTS
###.
Announcement
July 2, 2026
Charleston County Economic Development is excited to launch its Job Development Incentive (JDI), a new program to support business growth and strengthen the region’s economic competitiveness.
Announcement
June 17, 2026
A new economic impact study conducted by University of South Carolina Research Economist Dr. Joseph Von Nessen found that companies that have located and grown in Charleston County through Charleston County Economic Development's efforts now support 79,241 jobs and generate $26.2 billion in annual economic activity across the county.
Modus21, LLC (Modus21), a business technology consulting firm, today announced it is expanding its operations in Charleston County. The company’s $1.1 million investment will create 80 new jobs.
Founded in 2004, Modus21 is a small business headquartered in Charleston providing technology consulting services to commercial and defense customers. The company’s core capabilities include Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE), agile software development, DevSecOps, systems and software integration, cloud computing, business process re-engineering and automation, and cybersecurity services.
Located at 1362 McMillan Ave. in North Charleston, Modus21 is expanding its existing corporate facilities and equipment to support new job creation and its Cloud Innovation Lab (CIL).
Operations are already online. Individuals interested in joining the Modus21 team should visit the company’s careers page.
The Coordinating Council for Economic Development awarded a $50,000 Set-Aside grant to Charleston County.
QUOTES
“We are incredibly grateful to receive this $50,000 grant which represents a significant investment in both our company’s future and our community’s economic value. This funding will enable us to expand our facilities and create new job opportunities, while positioning us to continue innovating and growing. As a small business, this support is transformative as it allows us to scale our operations, invest in our workforce and deepen our roots in this community.”
-Modus21 CEO Peter Woodhull
“Modus21’s investment once again proves that South Carolina is place where businesses can thrive. We celebrate the new jobs this expansion will create and applaud the company’s decision to further invest in Charleston County.”
-Gov. Henry McMaster
“It is always gratifying to see a South Carolina-based business find success and continue to invest in the state. Congratulations to Modus21 and Charleston County on this announcement and 80 new opportunities it will bring to the Lowcountry.”
-Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III
“We are delighted to see Modus21 expanding in Charleston County, adding 80 new, knowledge-based jobs to our region. This announcement reinforces our commitment to building a diverse, resilient economy that provides high-quality opportunities for our citizens.”
-Charleston County Council Chairman Rev. Dr. Kylon Jerome Middleton
FIVE FAST FACTS
About Charleston County Economic Development
For over three decades, Charleston County Economic Development Department has been dedicated to establishing and maintaining business relationships with new and existing industries to preserve the Charleston area’s exceptional business climate and quality of life. To learn more about Charleston County Economic Development, visit www.charlestoncountydevelopment.org.
Announcement
July 2, 2026
Charleston County Economic Development is excited to launch its Job Development Incentive (JDI), a new program to support business growth and strengthen the region’s economic competitiveness.
Announcement
June 17, 2026
A new economic impact study conducted by University of South Carolina Research Economist Dr. Joseph Von Nessen found that companies that have located and grown in Charleston County through Charleston County Economic Development's efforts now support 79,241 jobs and generate $26.2 billion in annual economic activity across the county.
ABA Automotive, a leading global manufacturer of high-quality belt tensioners and idler pulleys based in Turkey, today announced it is establishing its first U.S. operations in Charleston County. The company’s new regional hub represents a $400,000 capital investment and is expected to create three new jobs within the first year.
Charleston County is serving as the landing pad for ABA Automotive, leveraging the region’s robust logistics capabilities and the Port of Charleston for its North American hub. The company will operate from its new facility at 4500 Leeds Avenue, Suite 145F, in North Charleston, serving as a vital base for its North American operations. The site will focus on sales, warehousing, distribution, and customer support, ensuring efficient service for ABA’s OEM, OES, and aftermarket clients across the United States.
With over 40 years of experience, ABA Automotive is a full-range supplier of belt drive system components, renowned for engineering quality and product reliability. The company also has a strong tradition of supporting technical education and animal welfare, and plans to explore similar community initiatives in the Charleston area.
Hiring for the Charleston facility will begin closer to the end of the year. Interested candidates can learn more and apply via the company’s careers page or by contacting the company directly.
QUOTES
“We are excited to bring ABA to Charleston County. The support we have received has been phenomenal, and we felt welcomed from the very beginning. This new facility will enable us to serve our North American customers better while leveraging Charleston’s robust logistics network and vibrant community. We look forward to exploring ways to contribute locally, building on our experience, and supporting local businesses.”
– ABA Automotive Managing Director Dunya Bulut
“Charleston County is a global business destination. As one of the fastest-growing auto parts manufacturers worldwide, ABA Automotive is a seasoned company distinguished by its high-tech engineering and forward-thinking management. Their new facility brings valued investment to our welcoming business community.”
-Charleston County Council Chairman Rev. Dr. Kylon Jerome Middleton
“We welcome ABA Automotive to the North Charleston family. Their presence strengthens our manufacturing community, creates quality jobs, and adds momentum to the positive growth we’re seeing across the city. Together, we’re building a future where international partnerships drive opportunity for all.”
-North Charleston Mayor Reggie Burgess
“We are proud that a leading global automotive parts manufacturer chose Charleston County to accelerate its U.S. market presence. By establishing their regional operations here, ABA Automotive is utilizing our advanced logistics network to serve customers better and creating a critical distribution node that will have a positive ripple effect throughout our local economy.”
-Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Merle Johnson
“We are delighted to welcome ABA Automotive to Charleston County. Their decision to establish a U.S. hub here reflects the unique combination of advanced manufacturing expertise and unmatched logistics infrastructure that sets our region apart. ABA’s presence further strengthens our position as a leading gateway for global industry.
-Charleston Regional Development Alliance Board Chair William Russell
FIVE FAST FACTS
About Charleston County Economic Development
For over three decades, Charleston County Economic Development Department has been dedicated to establishing and maintaining business relationships with new and existing industries to preserve the Charleston area’s exceptional business climate and quality of life. To learn more about Charleston County Economic Development, visit www.charlestoncountydevelopment.org.
Announcement
July 2, 2026
Charleston County Economic Development is excited to launch its Job Development Incentive (JDI), a new program to support business growth and strengthen the region’s economic competitiveness.
Announcement
June 17, 2026
A new economic impact study conducted by University of South Carolina Research Economist Dr. Joseph Von Nessen found that companies that have located and grown in Charleston County through Charleston County Economic Development's efforts now support 79,241 jobs and generate $26.2 billion in annual economic activity across the county.
Keel, a defense manufacturer, today announced it is expanding its operations in Charleston County. The company’s $67 million investment will create 170 new jobs at Keel’s Yonges Island shipyard.
Headquartered in Ladson, Keel is an advanced manufacturer of submarine modules and components, aircraft carrier components, and other complex structures for the U.S. Navy and broader defense industry.
Located at 4194 Highway 165 in Meggett, Keel’s expansion includes a new state-of-the-art prep and paint facility to support the manufacture of components and modules for submarines and aircraft carriers for the U.S. Navy.
Work has started on the first phase of the project, including the prep and paint facility. Individuals interested in joining the Keel team should visit the company’s careers page.
The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project.
QUOTES
“Keel’s expansion at Yonges Island emphasizes our commitment to supporting the U.S. Navy, our national defense and Charleston County. The expansion will enable Keel to add much-needed capacity and better help our U.S. Navy meet its stringent shipbuilding requirements. We are proud of the crucial work we do to help build America’s defense and will continue to identify ways we can expand our capabilities to best support our valued warfighters and global security.”
-Keel Chief Executive Officer Brian Carter
“Today, we recognize another significant win for our state’s manufacturing and defense industries. Keel’s substantial investment in the Lowcountry is further proof that South Carolina’s workforce continues to be a foundation for our existing companies to find sustained success.”
-Gov. Henry McMaster
“The defense industry is an integral part of South Carolina’s economy, and we are proud to be home to companies like Keel that support the U.S. military. This expansion in Charleston County is a strong testament to our state’s pro-business climate, as well as our commitment to the success of our companies from launch to legacy.”
-Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III
“Keel’s decision to expand its critical operations, backed by a $67 million investment, is a resounding affirmation of the skilled workforce, strategic assets and supportive business environment we have built in Charleston County. The company’s growth signals confidence in our workforce.”
-Charleston County Council Chairman Rev. Dr. Kylon Jerome Middleton
“Keel’s expansion of its advanced manufacturing operations is a major win for our community. We are proud to support Keel as they move forward with this crucial work for the U.S. Navy and the broader defense industry.”
-Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Merle Johnson
FIVE FAST FACTS
About Charleston County Economic Development
For over three decades, Charleston County Economic Development Department has been dedicated to establishing and maintaining business relationships with new and existing industries to preserve the Charleston area’s exceptional business climate and quality of life. To learn more about Charleston County Economic Development, visit www.charlestoncountydevelopment.org.
Announcement
July 2, 2026
Charleston County Economic Development is excited to launch its Job Development Incentive (JDI), a new program to support business growth and strengthen the region’s economic competitiveness.
Announcement
June 17, 2026
A new economic impact study conducted by University of South Carolina Research Economist Dr. Joseph Von Nessen found that companies that have located and grown in Charleston County through Charleston County Economic Development's efforts now support 79,241 jobs and generate $26.2 billion in annual economic activity across the county.
Eaton, an intelligent power management company, today announced it is expanding its aerospace manufacturing operations in Charleston County. The company’s $46 million investment will create more than 50 new jobs.
In the aerospace industry, Eaton is a leading provider of hydraulic, fuel, oxygen, fluid and air conveyance, electrical, motion control and engine solutions, as well as aftermarket service and support, for commercial and military aircraft.
Eaton will construct a new facility adjacent to its existing facility, located at 7230 Cross County Road in North Charleston, to expand its capability in additive manufacturing, machining, assembly and testing to support a new program win and increase capacity and readiness for future program wins. The new facility will produce complex hydraulic pumps and motors serving U.S. commercial and defense aerospace platforms.
Operations are expected to be online in 2028. Individuals interested in joining the Eaton team should visit the company’s careers page.
The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project. The council also awarded a $125,000 Set-Aside grant to Charleston County to assist with the costs of site preparation and building construction.
QUOTES
“Our investment in North Charleston demonstrates our commitment to serving our customers and the communities where we live and work. The expansion in North Charleston will enable Eaton to add machining, assembly and test capabilities and expand our existing additive manufacturing capability to support a key customer’s accelerated delivery schedule on a new program win.”
-Eaton’s Armando Tellez, President, Fuel and Motion Control Systems
“We are thrilled that Eaton has continued to find success in South Carolina and is expanding once again with an investment of $46 million. With the creation of 50 new jobs, this announcement is a great accomplishment for both the company and Charleston County.”
-Gov. Henry McMaster
“Eaton’s expansion in Charleston County underscores the strength of South Carolina’s business environment which is conducive for a company’s long-term success. We are pleased Eaton chose to further its legacy in our state with this notable investment in the Lowcountry and congratulate the company on this announcement.”
-Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III
“By investing in a new facility, Eaton is not only strengthening its future but also creating new opportunities that will enrich our local economy and further cement our reputation as a leader in advancement.”
-Charleston County Council Chairman Rev. Dr. Kylon Jerome Middleton
“We are proud that Eaton Aerospace Group has chosen to deepen its roots here in North Charleston. This expansion not only reflects confidence in our community’s workforce and business climate, but also brings new opportunities for our residents to be part of a global leader in innovation. We look forward to the positive impact Eaton’s investment will have on our city and its people.”
– North Charleston Mayor Reggie Burgess
“Eaton’s expansion in Charleston County is a powerful endorsement of our region’s advanced manufacturing strength. This investment brings quality jobs, supports our aerospace sector, and deepens a valued partnership in North Charleston.”
-Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Merle Johnson
FIVE FAST FACTS
About Charleston County Economic Development
For over three decades, Charleston County Economic Development Department has been dedicated to establishing and maintaining business relationships with new and existing industries to preserve the Charleston area’s exceptional business climate and quality of life. To learn more about Charleston County Economic Development, visit www.charlestoncountydevelopment.org.
Announcement
July 2, 2026
Charleston County Economic Development is excited to launch its Job Development Incentive (JDI), a new program to support business growth and strengthen the region’s economic competitiveness.
Announcement
June 17, 2026
A new economic impact study conducted by University of South Carolina Research Economist Dr. Joseph Von Nessen found that companies that have located and grown in Charleston County through Charleston County Economic Development's efforts now support 79,241 jobs and generate $26.2 billion in annual economic activity across the county.
