Charleston Regional Development Alliance

Berkeley, Charleston & Dorchester Counties

Printed from www.crda.org

Research & Reports


The Impact of Publicly Supported Higher Education on the Charleston Region

Report produced for the community by the
Charleston Regional Development Alliance
Charleston’s public colleges and universities provide more than $4 billion in economic, social and community impact to the region and the state, and support more than 41,000 jobs. In addition, these universities spearhead historic preservation efforts, bolster the hospitality & tourism industry, make important discoveries in research and business growth, and contribute thousands of hours of community service each year.

Commissioned in 2012, this research was undertaken in partnership with the area’s four state-supported schools: The Citadel, College of Charleston, Medical University of South Carolina, and Trident Technical College. The study also includes economic impact data from Charleston Southern University, one of South Carolina’s largest accredited private universities. The data analysis was performed by Austin-based TXP, Inc. and MGT of America.

Workforce development and education, along with talent attraction and retention, are key priorities within the region’s Opportunity Next strategy.




Opportunity Next

Building a Globally Competitive Economy for the Charleston Region


In April 2011, after a nine-month planning process, national consultants, Avalanche and McCallum Sweeney presented Opportunity Next. This multi-year economic development strategy assesses our region's strengths and challenges, and identifies global growth opportunities aligned with our assets.

Its objectives: supercharge the region's economy, strengthen employment and establish the Charleston region as an international hub for business and talent.

Regional Economic Scorecard

An annual assessment of our three-county region's economic progress. It is intended to guide discussions by local business, government, community and workforce leaders regarding strategies for building a globally competitive economy now and into the future.

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