“Commercial Space 101” Program Launches to Support Local Businesses

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Lowcountry Local First announces a new service for local-independent businesses in the Charleston region, “Commercial Space 101,” aimed at assisting those ready to launch into their first brick-and-mortar. Finding and securing an appropriate space to operate is one of the most important and daunting tasks for a local business. Unlike national chain stores who have a team of consultants to handle this aspect of their business, small businesses often must learn or guess what to do as they go, while trying to accomplish other critical tasks necessary to operate a business. Lowcountry Local First offers complimentary consultations where local businesses are matched with a panel of local experts to assist with advice and guidance in an unbiased, objective manner.

“Opening a brick and mortar can feel totally overwhelming and first timers often don’t even know what they don’t know,” says Lowcountry Local First’s Executive Director, Jacquie Berger. “Lowcountry Local First is here to offer support and to ensure these new local businesses start off on the right foot — understanding the true costs of getting started, what it will take to navigate permitting processes, and getting advice to help them choose trustworthy partner, from real estate professionals to attorneys, and architects to contractors.”

Advisors supporting the Commercial Space 101 program include experts in real estate, legal services, design, finance, and regulatory/zoning. They are prepared to point local businesses in the right direction, offer potential solutions to problems, confirm marketplace assumptions, explain common lease terms, or assist with permitting or zoning questions. Funding support for the program comes from Charleston County Economic Development, the City of Goose Creek, and the Town of James Island.

Interested local business owners can request a Commercial Space 101 session by completing a simple inquiry form online. The Lowcountry Local First staff respond to all inquiries and determine if a consultation is appropriate. All industries and business types are invited to participate.

ABOUT LOWCOUNTRY LOCAL FIRST
Lowcountry Local First advances economic prosperity and local ownership through innovative and inclusive initiatives that build our community’s wealth and wellbeing. Learn more at lowcountrylocalfirst.org.