Last summer the CRDA asked for your opinions for an economic development planning initiative for our three-county region. This initiative is based upon best practices research and information gathered from focus groups, site visits and one-on-one interviews with more than 200 local leaders, 48 advisory board members and 1,172 surveys of residents living and working in Charleston, Dorchester and Berkeley Counties.

Now, it’s time to report back on what we heard by releasing a multi-year economic development strategy called Opportunity Next. This strategic plan will supercharge the Charleston region’s economy by guiding and aligning regional efforts in community development, workforce development and economic development.

Opportunity Next balances new business recruitment, the expansion and retention of local businesses, supports entrepreneurial growth, and calls on local leaders to take action.

On Friday, April 29, we’ll unveil this strategic roadmap for securing a better economic future now. The program will take place at The College Center at the Complex for Economic Development at Trident Technical College from 10:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m., and will feature Bobby Hitt, SC Secretary of Commerce, as well as the consultants who authored Opportunity Next, Amy Holloway of Avalanche Consulting and Ed McCallum of McCallum Sweeney Consulting.

The event will conclude with a reception. This event is free and open to the public.

All regional organizations have a role to play in this strategic plan, so join us to find out how you can get involved! Feel free to pass invite friends, co-workers, colleagues and family! For more information visit Opportunity-Next.com.