Beaufort, SC Coworking Offices & Tech Incubator

TL+CO Business Solutions Selects Beaufort County to Establish First South Carolina Operation

COLUMBIA, S.C. – TL+CO Business Solutions (TL+CO), a business solutions provider, today announced it selects Beaufort County to establish the company's first South Carolina operation. The $7.5 million investment will create 35 new jobs.____

Headquartered in Utah, TL+CO develops, integrates, and implements strategic actions that add value and increase bandwidth for clients. The company's business intelligence and strategic supply chain management services primarily serve the aerospace, defense, space and automotive sectors.____

TL+CO's new 15,000-square-foot facility, located at 1236 Trask Parkway in Seabrook, will serve as a value-add distribution and kitting facility.____

Operations are expected to be online in April 2025. Individuals interested in joining the TL+CO team should contact Tim DiDonato (tdidonato@tlcosolutions.com).____

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project. The council also awarded a $100,000 Set-Aside grant to Beaufort County to assist with the costs of building construction and building improvements.____

QUOTES____

"We're thrilled to call Beaufort County home. The Lowcountry's skilled workforce, strong sense of community and pro-business environment made this an easy decision. One of the most compelling reasons to locate here is the steady pipeline of talent – especially the 800 service members who transition out of the military from local Marine bases each year. We look forward to growing in Beaufort County and contributing to its vibrant economic future."____

-TL+CO Business Solutions President and CEO Linda Martinez and Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Tim DiDonato____

"Recognizing South Carolina's competitive business environment and world-class workforce, TL+CO Business Solutions has chosen the right place to invest, creating 35 new jobs. We are proud to welcome TL+CO to Beaufort County and look forward to a strong partnership for years to come."____

-Gov. Henry McMaster____

"TL+CO Business Solutions' announcement today is further proof that South Carolina's pro business climate and dynamic workforce make our state an ideal site for new businesses. We look forward to partnering with TL+CO as it establishes operations in Beaufort County and continues to grow and thrive."____

-Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III____

"We are thrilled to welcome TL+CO Business Solutions to Beaufort County. Their decision to invest here reflects the strength of our workforce, the vibrancy of our community and the endless opportunities our region offers for business growth and innovation."____

-Beaufort County Council Chairwoman Alice Howard____

"SouthernCarolina Alliance salutes TL+CO for choosing Beaufort County as a home to their warehousing and distribution operations, which will be a great addition to the growing logistics industry in the region. We are grateful for the 35 jobs that will be created over the next five years, as each one represent a brighter future for someone in our region. SCA is pleased to support this project, and we congratulate Beaufort County on this announcement. We look forward to working with the company and Beaufort County to help TL+CO grow their operations in the coming years."____

-SouthernCarolina Alliance Chairman Marty Sauls____

FIVE FAST FACTS____

• TL+CO Business Solutions (TL+CO) selects Beaufort County to establish the company's first South Carolina operation.____

• The company's $7.5 million investment will create 35 new jobs.____

• TL+CO is a business solutions provider.____

• The company will be located at 1236 Trask Parkway in Seabrook, S.C.____

• Individuals interested in joining the TL+CO team should contact Tim DiDonato (tdidonato@tlcosoltuions.com).____

About S.C. Commerce____

Welcome to South Carolina. The new headquarters of American innovation.As the state's lead economic development agency, the South Carolina Department of Commerce (S.C. Commerce) works to recruit and support companies of all sizes in their quest to launch, expand and build a legacy. With proactive, strategic initiatives that help the agency create economic opportunities to increase choices for all South Carolinians, S.C. Commerce champions new and existing businesses and partnerships that fuel emerging and established industries alike. S.C. Commerce is the principal collaborator for SC NEXUS, a consortium of state leaders in government, utilities, higher education and other stakeholders exploring advanced energy. Recognized for its pro-business climate and policies that have attracted global brands and industry leaders, South Carolina is committed to maintaining the state's long-term competitiveness while building a modern economy –- one that is diverse, supporting businesses at every phase of their lifecycle – allowing people to live and work where they love. **For more information, visit **www.sccommerce.com.____

MEDIA CONTACT:____

Kelly Coakley____

Director of Marketing and Communications____

South Carolina Department of Commerce____

(803) 737-1998____

kcoakley@sccommerce.com____

www.SCcommerce.com

BetterMatch Wins Top Prize at Techstars Startup Weekend Beaufort 2025

BEAUFORT, S.C. –- A team of four entrepreneurs took home first place at Techstars Startup Weekend Beaufort 2025 after pitching a lead generation platform designed to streamline backend operations for home maintenance professionals. The three-day event, hosted by the Beaufort Digital Corridor, brought together 38 participants who pitched eight original startup ideas and formed three teams over the course of 54 hours.

The winning team, BetterMatch, proposed a modern alternative to platforms like Angie's List. Their concept uses chatbot integration and Net Promoter Scores to identify and qualify service leads, helping electricians, plumbers, and other tradespeople reduce administrative workload and focus on their core business. To validate the idea, the team reached out to employees of Angie's List and gathered direct feedback on what works and what doesn't.

BetterMatch includes Connor Floyd, a computer science graduate from the University of South Carolina Beaufort; Tristan Vance, a public sector representative; Andres Marquez, a senior consultant in data engineering and tech innovation; and Jessica Macmillan, an advertising and editorial photographer.

The top prize package includes minimum viable product development sponsored by LowCountry Games; a VIP trip to Charleston with a private tour of the Charleston Digital Corridor and a class at the Charleston Learning Center; a four-week intellectual property advisory program through Longship Legal; a marketing strategy consultation with Soiree Social Media; a fellowship to the 14-week Founder Institute accelerator; a one-year membership to the Beaufort Digital Corridor; a pitch opportunity at an upcoming TechConnect event; and a feature on BDC's website and social media.

All event participants also received startup perks such as AWS credits through Brex, SaaS discounts through Deel, Google Cloud credits, and design tool discounts from Desygner. Additional giveaways included tech accessories provided by CaseFactor.io.

The event was organized by Jess O'Brien and Angela Coxe of the Beaufort Digital Corridor. Mentors included Rich Conte, Amy Doerflinger, Henrik de Gyor, and Eric Siano. Fourteen sponsors contributed to the success of the weekend including Technical College of the Lowcountry, AlphaGraphics, Beaufort County Economic Development Corp, Lowcountry Games, University of South Carolina Beaufort, City of Beaufort, South Carolina Research Authority, South Coast Cyber Center, 303 Associates, ABC Storage & Rental, Beaufort Regional Chamber of Commerce, Evolve Into Fitness & Nutrition, Piace Pizza, and ShellRing Aleworks.

Techstars Startup Weekend is designed to introduce aspiring entrepreneurs to the fast-paced world of startups. Participants gain hands-on experience building a company, working in teams, and pitching to judges.

The weekend is just the beginning of a longer entrepreneurial journey. Beaufort Digital Corridor, local organizer of the event, offers continued support through mentorship, networking, and programs such as the Founder Institute's 14-week pre-seed accelerator, which begins its next cohort on October 14, 2025. https://fi.co/south-carolina

Photos from the weekend are available on Facebook at Beaufort Digital Corridor Accelerators. For more information or to get involved, visit www.beaufortdigital.com/events.

Media Contact:
Jess O'Brien
Executive Director
Beaufort Digital Corridor
jess@beaufortdigital.com

TS Conductor selects Jasper Co. for new manufacturing facility, creating hundreds of jobs

JASPER COUNTY, S.C. (WTOC) - South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster's office announced Thursday TS Conductor has selected Jasper County for the site of their second U.S. manufacturing facility.

This location is the company's first South Carolina operation.

The Governor's office says the company's $134 million investment will create 462 new jobs in Jasper County.

TS Conductor is a manufacturer of next-generation advanced conductors. They specialize in advanced conductor technology that enables utilities to double or triple transmission capacity while cutting costs for customers.

"What many people don't realize is our power grid is still relying on century old technology today," Jason Huang said, the company's Co-Founder and CEO. "With TS Conductor, you can triple the transmission capacity leveraging the same structure in the existing right out way. And, that is the fastest and cheapest way to get the grid modernized and take care of business."

TS Conductor's new 301,275-square-foot facility, located in Clarius Park Hardeeville, will manufacture advanced carbon-core conductors for use in transmission lines, including critical high-voltage direct current (HVDC) capacity.

This is the first of a three-phase expansion plan. As part of this investment, TS Conductor is also planning to add an additional one million square feet within Clarius Park Hardeeville in future phases.

Thursday, Gov. McMaster said this is exactly the direction he wants to see South Carolina moving in.

"We said power is what we want to do in South Carolina. We want to have more of it, we want to be able to get it to places quicker and easier, more safely, and at less expense," said Gov McMaster. "And that's why everything that he's doing and we're doing, fits together like a hand in a glove. It's perfect."

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project. The council also awarded a $5.11 million Closing Fund grant to Jasper County to assist with the costs of site preparation and building construction.

With the decision to bring a second facility to the Lowcountry, Huang said the company will be able to better meet the needs of a growing community in the Southeast, hoping to help locals move to a more efficient and affordable model.

As news of this announcement spreads, Gov. McMaster is hopeful other industrial companies will choose to be TS Conductor's neighbors.

"This is the place to be. When one great one comes, that's the signal to others, and it attracts others, and they attract others, that's why South Carolina is booming," said Gov. McMaster.

Hardeeville's mayor, Harry Williams shared this investment will likely have impacts for generations to come.

"Imagine if you're in high school now and you look at the possibility for a great job in a field that you're invested in and you can stay here in your hometown. What an opportunity for our residents that never existed before," said Mayor Williams.

Operations are expected to begin by the end of 2025. Individuals interested in joining the TS Conductor team should visit the company's careers page.

Copyright 2025 WTOC. All rights reserved.

Pitch Your Big Idea: Techstars Startup Weekend Returns to Beaufort, March 21–23

Beaufort, SC –- Techstars Startup Weekend, the globally recognized 3-day pitch competition, is returning to Beaufort for its fourth annual installment from March 21 to March 23, 2025. This dynamic weekend offers current and aspiring tech entrepreneurs the opportunity to pitch ideas, form teams, and build startup concepts from the ground up with no prior experience required.

Participants will collaborate with industry mentors, refine their ideas, and compete for the grand prize package valued at $10,000, including the development of their Minimum Viable Product (MVP) sponsored by LowCountry Games. This unique prize ensures the winning team won't just leave with a concept–-they'll walk away with a tangible prototype to kickstart their startup journey.

**Event Details **

• Who Can Participate: Anyone 18 and older with a tech startup idea, no experience needed.

• When: March 21–23, 2025

• Where: Beaufort Digital Corridor, 500 Carteret Street, Suite D, Beaufort, SC 29902

• How to Register: https://events.humanitix.com/2025-techstars_-startup-weekend-beaufort

• Cost: Tickets are on sale now, with discounted rates for students and military. Registration closes on March 16, 2025. Students and military can use discount codes TSW25STUDENT and TSW25MILITARY, respectively, during checkout to receive $15 OFF tickets.

"Having an international event like this in Beaufort is a testament to our growing entrepreneurial ecosystem," said Jess O'Brien, Executive Director of the Beaufort Digital Corridor Foundation. It's not just an opportunity for our community; it's a network that connects local talent with world-class mentorship and resources. This event drives innovation, builds relationships, and positions Beaufort as a rising hub for tech entrepreneurship."

Last year's event saw the success of MySafeCyber, which won the competition with its innovative solution for small business cybersecurity needs. This year's enhanced prize package sets the stage for even greater possibilities, ensuring participants have the resources to bring their ideas to life.

Hosted by the Beaufort Digital Corridor Foundation, Techstars Startup Weekend reflects the organization's mission to foster innovation, support tech entrepreneurs, and cultivate a thriving tech economy in the Lowcountry.

All-ages audience tickets are also available for those who want to cheer on participants and witness the innovative pitches during the final presentations.

Don't miss this chance to be part of an international movement that's making waves right here in Beaufort! Register today to secure your spot: https://events.humanitix.com/2025-techstars_-startup-weekend-beaufort

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About Techstars Startup Weekend

Learn how to think, work, and build like a startup. In 54 thrilling hours. Techstars Startup Weekend is an exciting and immersive foray into the world of startups. Over an action-packed three days, you'll meet the very best mentors, investors, co-founders and sponsors to show you how to get more done faster – and, maybe even start that business.

About Techstars

The Techstars worldwide network helps entrepreneurs succeed. Founded in 2006, Techstars began with three simple ideas–-entrepreneurs create a better future for everyone, collaboration drives innovation, and great ideas can come from anywhere. Now we are on a mission to enable every person on the planet to contribute to, and benefit from, the success of entrepreneurs. In addition to operating accelerator programs and venture capital funds, we do this by connecting startups, investors, corporations, and cities to help build thriving startup communities. Techstars has invested in more than 2,400 companies with a combined market cap of more than $204B.

About Beaufort Digital Corridor Foundation

Beaufort Digital Corridor Foundation (BDCF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to advance digital literacy and empower diverse communities to thrive in high-wage tech industries, driving inclusive growth and innovation across the Beaufort community.

Connect with the Corridor:

facebook.com/beaufortdigital/

linkedin.com/company/beaufort-digital-corridor/

instagram.com/beaufortdigitalcorridor/

Beaufort's Lowcountry Games Presenting at Telfair Museums

Lowcountry Games, a local game development studio and Beaufort Digital Corridor member company, is excited to announce the launch of its newest project "CHATCITIES": a website where players can craft interactive stories. This follows the success of last year's Quiet on Set, a murder mystery game that thrilled audiences. Specializing in conversational AI, the studio empowers players to craft interactive, immersive worlds.

What is AI and Why Does It Matter?
AI, or artificial intelligence, is like giving computers a little bit of "human-like" thinking so they can help us in creative and practical ways. In our games, AI makes it possible for characters to feel more alive–-they can chat with you, react to your choices, and even surprise you with their responses.

"This is storytelling reimagined," says Tatiana Tatum, the artist on the project. "AI improvises in conversation so each player will have a unique experience."

Lowcountry Games will debut this project at the PULSE Art + Technology Festival at Savannah's Telfair Museums on January 18, 2025. Admission to the museum is free from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and artist presentations, including Lowcountry Games' showcase, will take place from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

The PULSE Art + Technology Festival is a yearly celebration of innovation in the arts, held at Telfair museum's Jepson center. For more information about the project, visit Bit.ly/chatcitiesrpg.

About Lowcountry Games
Based in Beaufort, SC, Lowcountry Games has been at the forefront of using AI-driven characters in game development. Led by California transplant Jason Loia and nurtured by Beaufort Digital Corridor, Lowcountry Games has been the training grounds for Media Arts USCB students with their annual internship program.

Contact:
Jason Loia
Lowcountry Games
jason@loia.com

Beaufort Digital Corridor Foundation Announces 2025 Open Board Meeting Schedule

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
**January 8, 2025

Beaufort Digital Corridor Foundation Announces 2025 Open Board Meeting Schedule

BEAUFORT, S.C. –- The Beaufort Digital Corridor Foundation (BDCF) is pleased to announce its schedule of board meetings for 2025, with the first meeting on Friday, January 10th, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM. The meeting will take place at the Beaufort Digital Corridor, located at 500 Carteret Street, Suite D, Beaufort, SC 29907, in the Landing Pad Hargray Conference Room upstairs.

These meetings are free and open to the public, providing an opportunity for community members to engage with the Foundation's leadership and contribute to its mission of advancing education and workforce development in technology.

Public Participation

Public questions and comments are welcome. To participate, attendees must register by the Monday prior to each meeting by emailing info@beaufortdigital.com with their name, email address, and comment topic. Registered speakers will have up to three minutes to share their remarks during the designated public comment portion at the end of each meeting. The Board Chair may, at their discretion, grant additional time for topics that align with the organization's strategic goals and current business.

Future Meeting Dates

Board meetings will take place on the second Friday of each month from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at the Beaufort Digital Corridor, with the exception of a summer recess during June and July, when no meetings will be scheduled unless published otherwise.

The Beaufort Digital Corridor Foundation is dedicated to fostering economic growth and opportunity in Beaufort through technology education, workforce development, and mentorship programs. Community input and collaboration play a key role in achieving these goals, and the Foundation encourages public participation at its meetings.

For more information, visit beaufortdigital.com or contact Jess O'Brien at jess@beaufortdigital.com.

Media ContactJess O'BrienExecutive DirectorBeaufort Digital Corridor Foundation843-470-3506jess@beaufortdigital.com