Beaufort, SC Coworking Offices & Tech Incubator

Run Forrest Run 5K Returns on October 7, 2023: Registration Now Live!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Run Forrest Run 5K Returns on October 7, 2023: Registration Now Live!

Beaufort, SC - July 1, 2023 - The much-awaited annual Run Forrest Run 5K is back and better than ever, scheduled to take place on October 7, 2023. Organized by Beaufort Digital Corridor, this year's event promises to be an exhilarating celebration of fitness, community, and fun.

Registration for the Run Forrest Run 5K is now open, and participants can secure their spots at the starting line by visiting the official race website: https://runsignup.com/Race/SC/Beaufort/2019RunForrestRun5k. Early registration is encouraged, as slots are limited, and the event tends to sell out quickly.

The Run Forrest Run 5K is not just a race; it's an opportunity to give back to the community and support a fantastic cause. The proceeds will be donated to Beaufort Digital Corridor, an organization committed to fostering tech innovation, workforce development, and entrepreneurial growth in Beaufort, SC.

As the race gains more popularity each year, we invite local businesses to seize the chance to be a part of this iconic event. Sponsorship opportunities are now available, and interested parties are encouraged to download the Run Forrest Run 5K Sponsorship Packet by visiting: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/y5oyrt9ygk0rwk1d8a6rq/2023-Run-Forrest-Run-5K-Sponsorship-Packet.pdf?rlkey=k40dr14beynr4yu0gct8om1yk&dl=0.

The sponsorship packet offers various levels of support, each providing unique benefits and exposure to a wide audience. We are particularly excited to announce that there is only one spot left for the exclusive top-tier sponsor, who will have the prestigious honor of being featured as one of two businesses on the race medal ribbons for the Run Forrest Run 5K.

Moreover, we are delighted to welcome Beaufort Memorial Hospital as the exclusive sponsor for the Beaufort Triple Crown race series. This series, consisting of three exciting races throughout the year, brings together athletes of all levels for an unforgettable experience.

Runners who are up for a challenge can take part in the Beaufort Triple Crown by signing up for all three races: Run Forrest Run 5K, Swing Bridge Run, and Turkey Trot. To encourage participation in the entire series, participants who register for all three races will receive a special discounted rate. Don't miss the chance to earn your Beaufort Triple Crown bragging rights!

"We are thrilled to be bringing the Run Forrest Run 5K back to our beautiful community," said Jess O'Brien, Executive Director of Beaufort Digital Corridor. "This year, we are striving to make it even more memorable by offering exciting sponsorship opportunities and partnering with Beaufort Memorial Hospital for the Beaufort Triple Crown series."

The Run Forrest Run 5K is open to runners and walkers of all ages and fitness levels, encouraging everyone to participate and enjoy the scenic route through Beaufort. Participants can look forward to receiving a unique race t-shirt and other exciting goodies.

Make sure to mark your calendars for October 7, 2023, and join us for a day filled with joy, camaraderie, and a commitment to health and wellness.

For more information about the Run Forrest Run 5K, registration, and sponsorship opportunities, please visit the official website at or contact Jess O'Brien at 843-470-3506.

About Beaufort Digital Corridor:

Beaufort Digital Corridor is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the region's tech economy through workforce development initiatives, fostering entrepreneurship, and attracting innovative companies to Beaufort, South Carolina. Their mission is to create an environment that supports and nurtures technology-related businesses, cultivates talent, and drives innovation in the region.

Press Contact:

Jess O'Brien

Executive Director, Beaufort Digital Corridor

jess@beaufortdigital.com

843-470-3506

Beaufort Digital Corridor Announces Open Enrollment for Summer CODEcamp with Scholarships Available

Beaufort, SC - June 1, 2023 - The Beaufort Digital Corridor (BDC) is excited to announce the open enrollment for Summer CODEcamp, a one-week coding camp designed to inspire and educate young minds in the field of technology. The camp will take place during the day from Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 12:00 pm, providing an engaging and interactive learning experience for children.

Summer CODEcamp offers a unique opportunity for children to explore the world of coding and develop their digital skills in a supportive and collaborative environment. The camp curriculum is carefully crafted to foster creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills. With a focus on hands-on learning, campers will have the chance to build their own projects and gain practical coding experience.

To ensure that all children have access to this valuable learning opportunity, the Beaufort Digital Corridor is pleased to offer scholarships for campers in need of financial assistance. These scholarships aim to remove any barriers and make Summer CODEcamp accessible to a diverse group of students. Parents interested in applying for a scholarship can find more information on our website or contact us directly at info@beaufortdigital.com.

Parents have the flexibility to select from two different date ranges to enroll their children in Summer CODEcamp. The first session will be held from June 5 to June 9, while the second session will run from June 19 to June 23. Both sessions will follow the same engaging curriculum, ensuring that each camper has an equal opportunity to benefit from this exciting learning experience.

As an added convenience for parents, breakfast will be provided for campers each day, ensuring they start their day with energy and focus. The combination of nutritious meals and expert guidance will ensure that campers have an enriching and enjoyable experience throughout the program.

Registration for Summer CODEcamp is now open. Parents can secure a spot for their child by visiting the following Eventbrite registration pages: 6/5 - 6/9 camp** **or 6/19 - 6/23 camp. The Beaufort Digital Corridor encourages parents to register early, as space is limited.

For any inquiries or questions about Summer CODEcamp, parents can reach out to the Beaufort Digital Corridor directly at info@beaufortdigital.com or by calling 843-470-3506.

About Beaufort Digital Corridor

The Beaufort Digital Corridor is a community-sourced initiative focused on creating a tech-driven economy in Beaufort, South Carolina. Through collaboration and education, the Beaufort Digital Corridor aims to attract and support technology entrepreneurs and innovators, foster tech-related job creation, and promote the growth of a vibrant technology ecosystem in the region.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Jess O'Brien
Executive Director

Beaufort Digital Corridor
jess@beaufortdigital.com
Phone: 843-470-3506

USCB wins $1M NSF Engines Development Award for Maritime Cybersecurity

**Press event: **2 p.m. June 9 at the USCB Cybersecurity Lab, 1100 Boundary St., Beaufort. Learn more about the University of South Carolina Beaufort's new NSF grant. USCB representatives and elected officials will speak at this press conference.

(Bluffton, South Carolina), May 17, 2023 - The University of South Carolina Beaufort has been awarded $1 million from the U.S. National Science Foundation's Regional Innovation Engines, or NSF Engines, program.
USCB is among more than 40 teams across the U.S. to receive one of the first-ever NSF Engines Development Awards, which will help partners collaborate to create economic, societal and technological opportunities for their regions.

USCB, together with 12 partners, will use the grant funds to plan for the South Coast Regional Innovation Engine, which will conduct research to understand vulnerabilities, interdependencies, and risks in the regional maritime ecosystem and develop technologies to enhance safety and security. Enhanced cybersecurity education and workforce development programs, experimentation, investment, and commercialization of products with regional and national impacts are the ultimate goals.

"The real strength of the proposal is in its partnerships spanning industry, higher education, and government agencies. The transformational power and scope of the NSF Engines grant is immense," said USCB's Chancellor Al M. Panu.

Collectively, South Carolina's port and maritime transportation system represents 10% of the state's economy and includes ports, ships, shipping lines, cargo, people, inland waterways, intermodal transfers and other elements.

The NSF Regional Innovation Engines program is a new initiative and USCB is the lead agency for this grant. Its partners are: University of South Carolina (Columbia); Clemson University; South Coast Cyber Center; The Citadel; South Carolina State University; SC Research Authority; SC Ports Authority; Palmetto Tech Bridge/Naval Information Warfare Center, Atlantic; SC Council on Competitiveness; SCCyber; Technical College of the Lowcountry; Savannah River National Laboratory; American Bureau of Shipping; Fathom5 LLC; Alerion Capital; and Material Capital Ventures.

"Intense collaboration and interdisciplinarity are needed to solve our most complex problems. The NSF Engines grant addresses head-on critical needs in maritime cybersecurity facing the state and beyond," said USCB Provost Eric Skipper, who is heading the grant.

Information security expert Rick Siebenaler of Hilton Head Island, SC is the project's CEO. COO is Warren Parker, Chairman of the South Coast Cyber Center.

The NSF Engines Developmental Awards are planning awards. They help organizations create connections for regional research partnerships and within two years prepare strong proposals for becoming future NSF Engines. These Engines can receive up to $160 million to positively impact regional economies, accelerate technology development, advance national competitiveness, and create local, high-wage jobs.

Contact: Carol Weir, Senior Director of Communications, University of South Carolina Beaufort Phone: (843) 707-6115 Email: weirc@uscb.edu

Beaufort Digital Corridor Welcomes Three New Board Members

Beaufort, SC, May 1, 2023 – The Beaufort Digital Corridor (BDC) is pleased to announce the appointment of three accomplished professionals to its board of directors. Joining the BDC board are Jason Loia, Jeannine McConnell, and Chris Robinson. Their expertise and dedication to the tech industry will greatly contribute to the BDC's mission of fostering innovation and driving economic growth in Beaufort.

Jason Loia brings extensive experience in entrepreneurship and technology to the BDC board. With over 20 years of game production and publishing experience, Loia has served in various C-Level roles in Silicon Valley startups. His role on the BDC Board of Directors includes advising startups on growth and monetization, as well as providing executive coaching for up-and-coming entrepreneurs. Loia's visionary leadership and strategic thinking will undoubtedly prove invaluable to the BDC as it continues to support Beaufort's digital economy.

Jeannine McConnell has a four-decade tech career, spanning from software development patents to strategic global leadership roles. McConnell's most recent responsibilities included leading a global team of technologists and strategic partners at ServiceNow. With expertise in technology innovation, consultative leadership, and cultural change, McConnell is uniquely qualified to support the organization in navigating future challenges. She is a contributing leader to the BRM Institute™, holds certifications from PMI™ and IIBA™, and is a certified OKR Coach and an ECHO Listening™ coach.

Chris Robinson, a visual artist and Emeritus Professor at the University of South Carolina, brings a wealth of knowledge in the role of science and technology in contemporary culture. Robinson's research has explored the use of computers and 3D imaging in the arts, as well as the impact of nanotechnology. His cross-disciplinary initiatives and experience in arts and sciences make him a valuable addition to the board.

"We are delighted to welcome Jason Loia, Jeannine McConnell, and Chris Robinson to the Beaufort Digital Corridor's board of directors," said Jess O'Brien, Executive Director of Beaufort Digital Corridor. "Their exceptional backgrounds and commitment to entrepreneurship, technology, and innovation align perfectly with our mission. We are confident that their expertise will help us continue our journey towards transforming Beaufort into a hub for tech entrepreneurship."

The addition of these three accomplished professionals to the BDC board of directors further strengthens the organization's ability to drive innovation and foster economic growth in Beaufort. Their unique perspectives and industry insights will undoubtedly contribute to the strategic initiatives and programs aimed at promoting the success of digital technology ventures in the region.

About the Beaufort Digital Corridor:

The Beaufort Digital Corridor is a community-driven initiative to attract, nurture, and promote Beaufort's knowledge economy. Focusing on technology and entrepreneurship, the BDC provides a platform for digital technology startups and established companies to thrive, collaborate, and innovate. By offering infrastructure, mentorship, and educational opportunities, the BDC supports the growth of the local tech ecosystem and positions Beaufort as a premier destination for tech-driven businesses.

For more information, please visit www.beaufortdigital.com.

Media Contact: Jess O'Brien Beaufort Digital Corridor Phone: (843) 470-3506 Email: jess@beaufortdigital.com

City of Beaufort Sponsors Scholarships to Train Future Cybersecurity Professionals

Beaufort, SC - Beaufort Digital Corridor is excited to announce that the City of Beaufort has sponsored a limited number of scholarships for their comprehensive Cybersecurity Certificate prep course for COMPTIA Sec+. This self-paced, online program is designed for adults and recent graduates interested in pursuing a career in cybersecurity. The course covers all topics required for the Sec+ certification exam, with weekly office hours available for additional support.

Register Now

To make this program accessible to all, the City of Beaufort has sponsored a limited number of free scholarships. The deadline for submission is May 15th, so interested individuals are encouraged to apply now.

"As we continue on our path to becoming a cyber security center of excellence here in the Lowcountry, it's important to invest in training and development at every level," said Mayor Stephen Murray. "Helping to fund these scholarships is an important part of growing our next generation of cyber security experts."

"Our program provides a flexible and comprehensive training experience that empowers students with the skills they need to succeed in the cybersecurity industry," said Jess O'Brien, Executive Director of Beaufort Digital Corridor. "We are grateful to the City of Beaufort for their support, which enables us to offer free scholarships to those who need them."

This program is an excellent opportunity for anyone interested in pursuing a career in cybersecurity. Don't miss out on this chance to gain valuable skills and knowledge. Apply now by visiting the event page at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/cybersecurity-certification-course-comptia-sec-prep-tickets-621952636077.

About Beaufort Digital Corridor

The Beaufort Digital Corridor (BDC) is a 501(c)(6) community-sourced tech incubator focused on creating a business, education, and attractive social environment for tech entrepreneurs and tech-related companies. The BDC provides training programs that help build an educated workforce and funnel students into higher education pathways and is a partner of the South Coast Cyber Center. For more information, visit www.beaufortdigital.com.

A peek behind the curtain at USC Beaufort’s new cybersecurity lab

BEAUFORT –- There's little clue that the nondescript building at 1100 Boundary St. is home to a new, state-of-the-art cyber lab that's providing University of South Carolina Beaufort students experience working with the latest cybersecurity technologies.

Given the nature of the classes taking place inside, the building's incognito appearance seems appropriate.

Late last month, USCB hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the completion of the lab and recognize participation of the city of Beaufort, the South Coast Cyber Center, the Beaufort Digital Corridor and the U.S. Department of Defense in making the facility a reality.

Brian Canada, chair of the USCB Department of Computer Science and Mathematics, told The Post and Courier the first objective of the lab was to raise the profile of the Computer Science Department on the school's Beaufort campus. But it's also expected to play a more broad role in region's development as a hub for cybersecurity expertise.

"The idea was to create an ecosystem, not just in terms of minds, but also in terms of physical space that would be centered in Beaufort," Canada added.

When the doors to the lab were opened, visitors had a chance to see the unique aesthetic that was employed in the design of the facility. Hardware is mounted in open racks, and what seems like miles of cables are visible as they snake through the room. Nothing is hidden.

"The industrial look of the room design not only supports courses in advanced network security, but it also evokes a sensibility of the kinds of covert operations and investigations like you might see on TV shows like "24" and "The Blacklist" that might take place in repurposed, old buildings," said USCB Chancellor Al Panu, who added that there's no other lab like it on any other USCB campus.

When university officials first toured the structure two years ago, the intent was to determine if it could support a lab and the necessary technology. The building was last home to Bridges Preparatory School, which has since moved to a larger facility on Robert Smalls Parkway. The Boys and Girls Club occupied the space before that. It's choice as a location for a modern, high-tech lab was not immediately obvious.

Canada acknowledged the facility was a little rough at first glance, but had potential.

A working design emerges

He credits Matt Heightland, the school's director of Information Technology, with developing the lab's floor plan and the use of rack-mounted hardware in the lab itself.

"As soon as I saw the workup, I thought this was going to be a really special space' Canada said. "There's really nothing like it anywhere else that I've seen."

According to Canada, the university was after an industrial design that would mesh with the older building. They eschewed the clinical, sterile look that many similar facilities, particularly in the academic world, employ.

The city and the feds chip in

The South Coast Cybersecurity Center reports a need for 300,000 cybersecurity professional in the United States. With a growth rate of 32 percent annually, it's the fastest-growing profession in the country.

Beaufort City Manager Scott Marshall said the city's participation is part of a concerted effort to give local students an opportunity to fill those openings.

The city of Beaufort purchased the building and surrounding property for $2.3 million at the end of 2021, and has entered an agreement to lease the building to the school.

"Providing space to USCB to support an emerging cyber security education program helps to bridge the gap between the demand for cybersecurity professionals and the number of available and qualified cybersecurity experts," Marshall said.

A $1.3 million grant provided by U.S. Department of Defense Office of Local Defense Community Cooperation to the school and the South Coast Cyber Center provided much of the funding to outfit the lab with the latest hardware and software.

Moving forward

Currently, USCB offers a concentration in cybersecurity to its 60 information science and technology majors, and graduated its first students with a cybersecurity concentration this past fall. The number of students declaring the concentration is growing, Canada said, and the school is likely to discuss creating a cybersecurity major at some point in the future.

In the immediate future, the school is pursuing opportunities in a growing specialization, maritime cybersecurity.

"USCB is going to be collaborating with other institutions throughout the state on advancing research to support anomaly detection in maritime cybersecurity," Canada said.

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