The following are advocacy updates impacting local-independent businesses at the local, state, or federal level. For questions or more info, please contact Director of Operations, Lauren Gellatly, at lauren@lowcountrylocalfirst.org. Update on Expanded Outdoor Dining Regulations [LOCAL] ... Continue Reading
We are deeply saddened by the destruction of businesses in downtown Charleston and across the nation, but we are more outraged at the killing of innocent black people. We believe the anger and frustration being displayed is valid. Unfortunately peaceful protests and being “strong”... Continue Reading
These past 2 months have felt like 2 years. My team and I have been in the trenches with the local business community that we love and depend on. We have been helping them navigate the funding options available in a constantly changing environment, offering individual consulting and providing... Continue Reading
Provided by Jamee Haley, Executive Director. Posted by the Post & Courier, May 14, 2020: Once the panic subsides, if it does subside, we would be mistaken to not pause long enough to think about the future of our city, region and country through a new lens. Charleston’s real... Continue Reading
At Lowcountry Local First, we believe ownership matters and relationships matter. Our goal is to support the local business community and tailor our programs to help our community gain access to every chance at success. That’s why we work with businesses, community members, and... Continue Reading
Ahead of the City of Charleston’s mayoral election on Nov. 5, 2019, Lowcountry Local First has partnered with the Charleston City Paper to ask the six candidates pitching themselves to be the city’s next leader about specific policies that affect local businesses in our community.... Continue Reading
The following article ran in the Charleston Regional Business Journal, Volume 24 / No 26 print issue, that came out on December 10, 2018. Written by CRBJ staff writer Patrick Hoff. If you’re looking to buy a Big Mac, you won’t find it in downtown Folly Beach. And that will... Continue Reading
Lowcountry Local First advocates for vibrant communities rooted in independent businesses Charleston, SC – On Tuesday, November 13, 2018, the City of Folly Beach unanimously passed the second and final reading of Ordinance 11-18, effectively prohibiting formula businesses (more... Continue Reading
By Chloe Johnson cjohnson@postandcourier.com Oct 22, 2018 – Front page story for the Post and Courier Folly Beach may ban chain businesses from the island, a rare move for a South Carolina municipality that supporters say will help protect the beach community’s funky... Continue Reading
