January 29, 2026

Charleston Connects to Drive Local Business Innovation

Charleston, January 29, 2026

Recently, Charleston’s business community came together for a networking event that energized the entrepreneurial spirit in the Lowcountry. The ‘Accelerate’ event hosted by What Now Media Group focused on fostering connections among local restaurateurs and industry experts to share strategies for success in a competitive market. Key participants, including local restaurant owners and business professionals, collaborated to promote growth in Charleston’s thriving food and beverage sector, which significantly contributes to the local economy. This collaboration exemplifies the community’s commitment to supporting and expanding small businesses in Charleston.

Charleston

Charleston Connects: Fueling Business Growth and Innovation

Charleston’s vibrant business community recently gathered for a significant networking event, fostering connections and propelling the Lowcountry’s entrepreneurial spirit. These gatherings are crucial for local businesses to thrive, showcasing the determination of South Carolina entrepreneurs and their commitment to economic advancement.

Such private sector initiatives serve as vital catalysts, demonstrating how collaboration and shared knowledge can accelerate business growth and contribute significantly to the Charleston County economy. By providing platforms for industry professionals to connect, these events highlight the innovative spirit that defines Charleston’s thriving commercial landscape.

The Power of Connection: What Now Events

On Wednesday, January 21, 2026, Charleston’s restaurant and hospitality professionals converged at Legami, an Italian restaurant located at 492 King Street, for an “Accelerate” event hosted by What Now Media Group. The gathering brought together over two dozen representatives from businesses featured on What Now Charleston, along with industry-leading experts from What Now Media Group’s network of Preferred Partners. Attendees engaged in valuable networking opportunities over food and beverages, prior to a presentation focused on strategies for succeeding and expanding in a dynamic market.

What Now Media Group specializes in sharing news about restaurant openings across 33 cities in North America, providing timely insights into new and expanding brick-and-mortar businesses. Their network of industry experts helps both new ventures launch and existing businesses grow.

Charleston’s Entrepreneurial Spirit and Culinary Excellence

The Charleston region is renowned for its robust entrepreneurial spirit, particularly within its acclaimed food and beverage sector. This industry is characterized by a culture of collaboration rather than competition, which is a key factor in its sustained success. The Charleston small business community continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience and innovation, contributing to the city’s reputation as a top culinary destination.

Numerous local businesses and their leaders were represented at the event, including John Ropolo and Terell Ham from Legami; Alex Mouzakitis of Alekos Greek Gyros; Carla Mouzakitis of Whip It Good, which recently secured a local baseball vendor contract and is exploring brick-and-mortar expansion; Ajjima “AJ” Hung of Cafe Hosanna; Misty Coan and Boni Belle Brooks of Conch Cafe; Oscar Hines and Matt Womack of Dashi Wine Bar and Emporium; Margaret Stypa of Rivayat Creative Indian; Sabatino Covollo of Sabatino’s Authentic New York City Pizza; Gina Cordoba and Taryn Grant of Tracer Coffee Bar / Summit Grounds; and Peter Politis of The Bossy Hen.

Driving Economic Prosperity Through Strategic Partnerships

Events like the “Accelerate” gathering serve as critical platforms for fostering strategic partnerships that directly impact Lowcountry economic growth. Representatives from seven of What Now Media Group’s Preferred Partners were present, offering expertise in various business functions. These included Hannah Pennell from A Head For Profits, discussing draft beer equipment and installation; Cassie Shaw and Tyler Hayes from Auris, providing insights on HR and payroll solutions; Jeremy Roberts and Justin Smith from Global Payments – Genius Point of Sale, offering advice on streamlining payment systems; Louli Burroughs from OpenTable, highlighting ways to leverage reservations technology; and Joseph Payne and Nathan Steele from SpotOn, sharing operational strategies for scaling businesses.

The cumulative effect of such interactions is significant. The hospitality trade in the Charleston region generated a record $12.8 billion in economic impact in 2022. Furthermore, the Charleston restaurant industry alone contributes an estimated $7.7 billion to the regional economy and supports more than 60,000 jobs across the Charleston metro area. This demonstrates how targeted events and the resulting collaborations enhance industry growth and job creation.

A Favorable Business Climate in Charleston

Charleston County has experienced substantial growth in its business landscape. Between 2001 and 2021, the number of business establishments in Charleston County increased by 68.1%, from 11,612 to 19,514. This contrasts with a 42.6% growth rate for the state of South Carolina over the same period. During the same timeframe, employment in Charleston County grew at more than double the rate of South Carolina, with a 45.2% increase compared to 20.1% statewide.

The Charleston County Economic Development (CCED) department plays a crucial role in this growth, having facilitated over $6.9 billion in capital investment and approximately 39,000 new, direct jobs for the county since its inception in 1993. Resources available to Charleston SC business owners include assistance with site selection, financial incentives, workforce development, and entrepreneur resource referrals provided by Charleston County Economic Development. Additionally, the South Carolina Small Business Development Center offers private consultations, and the Charleston County Small Business Enterprise Program assists small businesses in participating in public procurement processes and provides training. These initiatives underscore a commitment to fostering an environment where businesses can flourish with adequate support and minimal unnecessary burdens.

The Ripple Effect of Local Engagements

Local events are powerful drivers of economic activity, attracting both residents and visitors, which increases foot traffic for nearby businesses and boosts direct sales for vendors. The money spent within a community tends to circulate locally, creating a beneficial multiplier effect for the broader economy and increasing the tax base. Such environments not only encourage entrepreneurial endeavors and innovation but also lead to the development and expansion of new local businesses, ultimately resulting in job creation and enhanced financial stability for residents.

The “Accelerate” event is a prime example of how curated networking experiences contribute to this positive cycle. By providing a forum for learning and collaboration, it empowers entrepreneurs to refine their strategies and scale their operations, ensuring the continued dynamism of Charleston’s business community.

Conclusion

The “Accelerate” event in Charleston stands as a testament to the enduring entrepreneurial spirit and the vital role of networking in fostering economic vitality. By connecting restaurateurs with industry experts and facilitating the exchange of innovative ideas, such initiatives are instrumental in driving growth, creating jobs, and strengthening the overall Charleston County economy. Supporting local businesses and participating in community-focused events are essential actions for all residents to ensure Charleston’s continued prosperity and vibrant future.

Frequently Asked Questions about Charleston’s Business Environment

What was the “Accelerate” event in Charleston?

The “Accelerate” event was a networking gathering hosted by What Now Media Group at Legami, an Italian restaurant in Charleston, on Wednesday, January 21, 2026. It brought together Charleston restaurateurs, industry professionals, and experts to discuss strategies for business growth and success.

Which types of businesses and professionals attended the “Accelerate” event?

Attendees included local restaurant operators such as John Ropolo and Terell Ham from Legami, Alex Mouzakitis of Alekos Greek Gyros, Carla Mouzakitis of Whip It Good, and co-owners of various other establishments like Cafe Hosanna, Conch Cafe, and Dashi Wine Bar and Emporium. Representatives from What Now Media Group’s Preferred Partners also attended, offering expertise in areas like HR, payroll, payment systems, and reservations technology.

What is the economic impact of the hospitality and restaurant industry in Charleston?

The hospitality trade in the Charleston region had a record-breaking $12.8 billion economic impact in 2022. The Charleston restaurant industry specifically has an estimated $7.7 billion economic impact on the region, supporting over 60,000 jobs across the Charleston metro area.

How much has the business sector grown in Charleston County recently?

Between 2001 and 2021, the number of business establishments in Charleston County grew by 68.1%, from 11,612 to 19,514. During the same period, employment in Charleston County increased by 45.2%.

What resources are available for small businesses and entrepreneurs in Charleston County?

Charleston County Economic Development offers assistance with site selection, financial incentives, workforce development, and entrepreneur resource referrals. The South Carolina Small Business Development Center provides private consultations, and the Charleston County Small Business Enterprise Program supports small businesses in public procurement and offers training opportunities.

Key Features of the What Now Accelerate Event in Charleston

Feature	Details
Event Name	Accelerate Event
Host	What Now Media Group
Location	Legami, 492 King Street, Charleston, SC
Date	Wednesday, January 21, 2026
Attendees	Over two dozen representatives from Charleston restaurants and industry professionals, including business owners and experts.
Purpose	Networking, sharing strategies for business growth and success in a competitive market.
Expert Involvement	Representatives from What Now Media Group’s Preferred Partners offering guidance on various business operations.