Charleston Reporter

Goose Creek has joined forces with the independent business nonprofit organization Lowcountry Local First to provide training, and workforce and economic development in the city.

The City Council approved a two-year pact with Lowcountry Local First that will leverage existing business resources and industry expertise to grow the local economy and promote Goose Creek as a strong community for business success. 

The partnership will officially begin in the first quarter of 2022. 

“We are thrilled to have this opportunity to partner with the City of Goose Creek to take on some highly visible and transformational projects,” Jacquie Berger, executive director of Lowcountry Local First, said in a news release touting the partnership. “From attracting new businesses to supporting emerging entrepreneurs, this work will build community wealth and enhance the quality of life for Goose Creek residents now and in the years to come.”

Goose Greek Mayor Greg Habib also expressed excitement about the partnership. 

“These are the types of transformative partnerships we are always looking for at the City,” he said in the release. “We are excited for the possibilities that this collaboration presents, and can’t wait to get it kicked off. Look for big things from this partnership and our business community in the coming year.”

First up for the initiative will be a "Good Enterprises Program" training cohort "that will provide a hands-on training in business planning and management for existing and aspiring entrepreneurs," the release said. "Each cohort will be composed of a minimum of 70% low-income participants. One cohort will be delivered in English, and one in Spanish. Graduates will receive a year-long access to Lowcountry Local First’s Business Accelerator Services program, providing them with further one-on-one expert assistance."

Among the other initiatives to be explored include the "Good Business Workshop Series," the "Holiday Season Buy Local Campaign," and the "Community Storefront Challenge."

According the release, the storefront challenge aims to "incubate minority business owners seeking a brick and mortar establishment and provide economic opportunity for those who live in the City of Goose Creek. The winner of the Challenge will be placed with a partner property owner with a one-year subsidized lease rate."