Beaufort, SC Coworking Offices & Tech Incubator

December 2023 Newsletter

Dear BDC Community,

As we near the end of 2023, I'm excited to reflect on the impactful journey of the Beaufort Digital Corridor (BDC) since 2017. The BDC has become a hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic development in our region. Our unwavering commitment to fostering a thriving tech ecosystem has created tangible influence in various dimensions.

This has translated into job creation, capital investment, and impactful partnerships with local businesses, enhancing the region's prosperity. We've planted seeds of innovation through CODEcamps and K-12 outreach events which have inspired countless young minds, shaping the aspirations of future tech enthusiasts and leaders. We've mentored college students, aspiring tech entrepreneurs, startups, and small business owners through lunch & learns, hackathons, meetups, and mentorship programs. We've helped place entry-level and mid-career job seekers as well as transitioning military veterans into high-paying tech jobs in our region through resume building, coaching and introductions to new industries and industry leaders. The true success of the BDC lies in the immeasurable impact on individual lives and career paths. It's a transformative force instilling a culture of innovation, collaboration, and entrepreneurship, catalyzing positive change for years to come.

As we celebrate the impactful journey of the Beaufort Digital Corridor (BDC) throughout 2023, we invite you to strengthen our narrative with your insights. Help us substantiate our influence by participating in the 2023 BDC Member Wage Survey. Your input is vital, as it enables us to advocate for Beaufort's growing high-wage tech industry and attract employers to our region by telling a story using data from our members.

Please take a moment to contribute to this essential survey using the provided link below. Your company's information, combined with that of others, will shape an aggregated annual average wage and employment growth number, providing a comprehensive view of our collective impact.

Thank you for being an integral part of the BDC's success. Together, we can continue driving positive change in Beaufort's community.

With Heartfelt Gratitude,

Jess O'Brien, Executive Director

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Beaufort Digital Corridor Member Shane Suda Releases Revolutionary App for Music Lovers

Music has the power to bring people together. Our music selections are often informed by those around us and have provided a backdrop to many of our fondest memories. So is there a way to harness technology to make listening to music a more interconnected experience? Nobody has given this more thought than Shane Suda, Beaufort native and founder of your next favorite app, Gruvv.

A 2020 USC-Beaufort graduate, Suda recognized a gap in the market for a social networking service centered around sharing and discovering songs and artists (without AI algorithms playing DJ). Combining this need with the tried-and-true swiping mechanic of an app like Tinder along with the social sharing feature of Instagram, the idea for Gruvv was born. Suda worked around the clock on his passion project in hopes of revolutionizing the way we share and discover music.

Shane Suda, the man behind the innovative app, proudly grew up and attended school in Beaufort. A travel aficionado, he majored in Hospitality Management, which suits someone so outgoing and welcoming. Hospitality may not seem to have much in common with app development, but Suda can facilitate novel experiences that maximize enjoyment and convenience. Not so different after all.

The way Gruvv works is simple, and the idea came to Suda one day in 2020 while he was watching business development YouTube videos. In the discovery section of the Gruvv, the app presents users with a random profile comprised of 9 top songs that encompass one's current music tastes. Then, users swipe left to skip or right to follow that person's musical journey. A main feed aggregates song updates like an ever-evolving group playlist curated by friends (and some new faces too).

Suda pointed out that none of the current top social networks have an effortless way to post and disseminate song media. Screenshots do not suffice, and Reels and TikToks are more focused on what's trending and the accompanying visuals.

In tandem with Suda, Jason Loia of LowCountry Games and Andrew Branning of Branning Design developed the app. The Beaufort Digital Corridor (BDC) is proud to have connected Suda with the team he needed to bring Gruvv to market. The BDC also hosted the first public pitch deck presentation for Gruvv making this connection possible.

Suda has launched his iOS app and is ready to turn the world into Gruvvers. Gruvv is a free app interlinked with Apple Music to provide song previews, so it is available for anyone to enjoy. Grab your AirPods and get ready to Gruvv.

Website: https://www.gruvv.app

Instagram: https://instagram.com/gruvvapp?igshid=YTQwZjQ0NmI0OA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094411651750&mibextid=LQQJ4d

Divergence Academy's CMMC and CISSP Training Comes to Beaufort, SC

The Beaufort Digital Corridor is excited to announce a special training opportunity for professionals looking to enhance their cybersecurity knowledge and career prospects. Divergence Academy, in partnership with the Beaufort Digital Corridor, will be hosting Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) training courses in Beaufort, SC.

Dates & Times:
CMMC Training: February 5–9, 2024, Monday - Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (40 hours)
CISSP Training: February 12–16, 2024, Monday - Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (40 hours)
These courses will provide valuable skills and knowledge to help professionals excel in the dynamic field of cybersecurity.

Why CMMC and CISSP Training Matters:
For CMMC:
The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) framework is of paramount importance for professionals working in the field of cybersecurity, especially those who deal with government contracts and sensitive information. Developed by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), the CMMC framework is designed to enhance the security posture of organizations within the defense supply chain. This specialized certification preparation program equips participants with the skills needed to understand and navigate the CMMC framework. By mastering the evolving landscape of CMMC, attendees will be well-prepared to thrive in a competitive job market and effectively secure critical digital assets. VIEW CMMC FLYER

For CISSP:
The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification is one of the most sought-after credentials in the information security industry. This comprehensive course prepares professionals to demonstrate their deep understanding of cybersecurity strategy and hands-on implementation. CISSP certification is crucial for a wide range of roles, from Security Analysts to Chief Information Officers. To qualify for CISSP, candidates must pass the exam and have at least five years of cumulative, paid work experience in two or more of the eight domains of the ISC2 CISSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK(r)). Earning CISSP certification is an essential step for professionals looking to advance their careers in the cybersecurity field.

Both of these classes will be taught by Divergence Academy, a renowned leader in emerging tech education. The courses are open to professionals looking to enhance their cybersecurity expertise and career opportunities. VIEW CISSP FLYER

Eligibility and Financial Support:
These training courses are accessible through VetTech and the GI Bill. Divergence Academy is committed to supporting veterans and their career transition. They also offer accessible loans for as little as $600 a month and flexible installment payment options.

About Divergence Academy:

Divergence Academy is a leading vocational trade school focusing on emerging technologies. Their mission is not just to educate but to optimize support for each learner to seamlessly transition into their desired tech roles upon graduation. By intertwining career services throughout their courses and leveraging their vast employer partner network, they prioritize post-graduation placement as their key metric of success. Whether you're a veteran or an aspiring tech enthusiast, Divergence Academy paves the way for your bright future in technology. Tech credit to attend these classes. LEARN MORE

Registration:
Interested in these sought-after training courses? REGISTER HERE

The Beaufort Digital Corridor Opens Its Doors for Artists Sunday

The Beaufort Digital Corridor (BDC) invites you to join us on Artists Sunday for a special showcase. Thibaut gallery artist and BDC member, Tatiana Zalapskaia will exhibit her Window Paintings series. The series includes full- and mini-sized renderings of childhood drawings against fogged glass. Visit the BDC on the Sunday after Thanksgiving, November 26, 2023, from 12–4 PM, for a truly nostalgic experience. As a new piece of art could be the respite you crave during a busy work day or the perfect gift for a friend or coworker's workspace, please consider coming out to support this talented coastal artist.

Portfolio: https://www.tatianatatum.com/

Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/tati_tatum/

November 2023 Newsletter

Dear BDC Community,

As we dive into November, a month synonymous with gratitude, it is with immense appreciation that I reach out to you in our latest newsletter. The Beaufort Digital Corridor family has so much to be thankful for, and I want to take a moment to express our deepest thanks to all of you – our members, sponsors, supporters, and community partners.

First and foremost, we are thankful for each and every one of you who make our mission possible. Our commitment to serving our community through scholarships and support for local entrepreneurs is only achievable with your unwavering support. Your belief in our cause is a driving force, and we are grateful for your trust and dedication.

I want to extend a special thank you to our incredible team, dedicated board members, and selfless volunteers. Your generous donation of time and expertise is the cornerstone of our success. We couldn't do it without you.

To our mentors, thank you for your generous support and guidance. Your willingness to share your knowledge and experience plays a crucial role in the growth of our community's innovators.

Last but not least, I want to express our gratitude to this newsletter's cheerleaders and loyal readers. Your enthusiasm and advocacy help spread the word about our mission and our impact in Beaufort.

Our mission remains clear: To attract, nurture, and promote technology companies, entrepreneurial professionals, and the workforce in Beaufort. We are committed to fostering an environment of innovation, growth, and opportunity for all.

As we move forward, I encourage you to show up and get involved in our upcoming activities. Whether you attend our events, join our mentorship programs, or simply spread the word about our initiatives, your participation is invaluable.

This November, let us continue to work together, support one another, and give thanks for our opportunities to impact Beaufort positively. Together, we can achieve great things.

With Heartfelt Gratitude,

Jess O'Brien, Executive Director

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The Beaufort Digital Corridor's Executive Director Wins at 2023 Civitas Awards

In Beaufort, South Carolina, there's a rising star inspiring the community. Jess O'Brien, executive director of the Beaufort Digital Corridor (BDC), recently received the Buzzworthy Award at the 2023 Civitas Award Reception. Presented by the Beaufort Regional Chamber of Commerce, the Buzzworthy Award honors outstanding young professionals in our community. Jess has solidified her status as a remarkable figure in the region through her exceptional professional capabilities, leadership qualities, and unwavering commitment to serving.

On October 12th, 2023, a night reserved for recognizing the community's best and brightest, Jess faced two worthy finalists for the Buzzworthy Award. The impressive contenders were Monique Dawson, the Chief Executive Officer at Dawson and Dawson Home Care, LLC, and Allison Kindwall, a commercial insurance agent for Kinghorn Insurance Agency of Beaufort, LLC. Despite the strong competition, Jess, a first-time finalist, secured a well-deserved win.

Jess's achievements are nothing short of inspiring. During her 5-year tenure at the BDC, she has invested much of her time and strength into transforming the tech incubator into what it is today. The BDC has become a vibrant hub of innovation, growth, and diversity thanks to her efforts. One of her notable initiatives, the Beaufort Women in Tech Meetup, has grown exponentially, with 90 members joining since its inception. This initiative is a testament to Jess's commitment to providing representation and support for women in the tech industry. In her own words, "Our aim is to eliminate traditional roadblocks hindering women from pursuing tech careers by offering flexible programs, whole-person mentorship, and a supportive network, enabling them not just to survive but to thrive in this field."

Jess O'Brien truly exemplifies the spirit of the Buzzworthy Award. Her win serves as a shining example that with passion, determination, and dedication, we can transform our communities. We celebrate her accomplishment knowing she has created a brighter future for Beaufort, South Carolina.

🔗 2023 Civitas Awards Reception Video

🔗 Civitas Award Information