News

In the fall of 2024, Hurricane Helene ravaged the Carolinas, devastating many communities and destroying critical infrastructure. The road to recovery continues in some SC/NC communities. In the months after the storm, it was impossible to go to a local business and not be provided a way to... Continue Reading

Local On February 19, Charleston County Council approved the first draft of funding allocations for the half-cent Transportation Sales Tax referendum expected to be on the ballot this November. This is the breakdown of how the revenue generated from the sales tax would be spent (subject to... Continue Reading

We are proud to announce the latest recipients of the Marketing Momentum Small Business Grant, a program designed to equip local entrepreneurs with the pro-bono professional marketing support they need to grow, reach new audiences, and strengthen their impact in our community. This year’s... Continue Reading

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 11, 2026 MEDIA CONTACT: Mara Fields 843-801-3390 mara@lowcountrylocalfirst.org LOWCOUNTRY LOCAL FIRST SHARES UPDATED PLANS FOR THE GOOD BUSINESS SUMMIT AHEAD OF ORGANIZATION’S 20th ANNIVERSARY Charleston, SC – Lowcountry Local First... Continue Reading

If it comes from 1‑800 or www, is it really from the heart? This Valentine’s Day, celebrate connection by choosing gifts and experiences from local Lowcountry businesses. Shopping local supports small businesses, keeps dollars in the community, and offers thoughtful ways to show love to... Continue Reading

As we roll into the second month of Do Good Season, we’re inviting our community to put purpose behind their purchases by supporting Black-owned businesses. From makers and retailers to farmers, creatives, and service providers, Black entrepreneurs are doing incredible work right here in... Continue Reading

Join us at Lowcountry Local First's 13th annual Good Business Summit this month on February 18th as we explore business as a force for good. A special interactive breakout session after lunch will equip attendees with connections and tactics to grow collective, neighborhood-level advocacy... Continue Reading

Month Long - Black History Month events in Charleston Feb 1 - Taste of Gullah Geechee presented by Carolima’s Lowcountry Cuisine & Friends Feb 4 - SBE Certification Webinar for Small Businesses hosted by the City of Charleston Feb 4 - The Bitter & The Sweet at Philosophers &... Continue Reading

Thank you for joining us at this month’s Marketing Mindshare with Brianna Crossley and Nicole Lennox with Pollen. This session focused on building organic social media systems that help brands grow sustainably in 2026. Instead of chasing trends or posting reactively, the conversation... Continue Reading

TICKET POLICY: Tickets are non-refundable. A one-time ticket transfer is permissible. HEALTH POLICY: Due to the nature of this event, we cannot address individual allergy concerns. Each participating chef is asked to prepare at least one vegetarian dish. We ask individuals to NOT attend... Continue Reading

Lowcountry Local First is proud to announce its 2026 Board of Directors. The Board includes talented and passionate business leaders from a wide variety of sectors and backgrounds. 2026 Board of Directors (* Indicates a new board member) Executive Committee:- Chair: Kate Schmieding, Obviouslee -... Continue Reading

Lowcountry Local First (LLF) is grateful to announce that it has been selected to receive a 2026 Relentless Challenge Grant from the South Carolina Department of Commerce (S.C. Commerce). The Relentless Challenge was established to elevate programs that reflect South Carolina's unwavering... Continue Reading