Beaufort, SC Coworking Offices & Tech Incubator

Oct - November 2025 Newsletter

As we enter the season of gratitude, I'm so thankful for what our community has accomplished together. From fostering a spirit of creativity and connection through community events like the Run Forrest Run 5K to welcoming new startups and completing our first 9-week Launch Beaufort incubator, the energy inside the Corridor has never been stronger.

Tonight, we celebrate a major milestone –- the Launch Beaufort Graduation and Demo Day! 🎓🚀 Join us upstairs at BASEcamp at 6:00 p.m. for light bites, beverages, and an inspiring evening as our entrepreneurs showcase their businesses and what they've learned. This cohort spent the past nine weeks mastering AI tools, business modeling, and digital systems to launch their next chapter –- and they can't wait to share it with you.

We're also thrilled to announce that the Beaufort Digital Corridor Foundation has been selected as a local partner to distribute **Google Career Certificate Scholarships! **No previous experience needed.

If you've been considering a new career or want to grow your digital skills, this is your chance to get job-ready in as little as six months –- for free. These flexible, online certificates –- designed by Google –- prepare learners for careers in AI, Cybersecurity, Data Analytics, Digital Marketing & E-Commerce, IT Support, Project Management, and UX Design. No degree or prior experience required. Attend our Google Certificates Open House on November 14 from 12-1pm.

As we enter the season of gratitude and giving, I invite you to help us carry this momentum into 2026. Your tax-deductible donation to the Beaufort Digital Corridor Foundation supports programs like Launch Beaufort and digital-skills training that empower local residents to thrive in the digital economy.

Make your gift before December 31st to take advantage of 2025 tax credits –- and keep opportunity growing right here in Beaufort.

GIVE TODAY →

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With gratitude,

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Jess O'Brien

Executive Director at Beaufort Digital Corridor

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Beaufort Digital Corridor and Foundation Announce Expanded Board to Strengthen Regional Innovation Network

BEAUFORT, S.C. –- Sept. 26, 2025 –- The Beaufort Digital Corridor (BDC) and its charitable arm, the Beaufort Digital Corridor Foundation (BDCF), today announced an expanded board of directors to accelerate Beaufort's innovation economy and strengthen its "network of networks" supporting entrepreneurs.

The joint board includes leaders from technology, education, venture, marketing, and economic development, positioning BDC to attract funding partners and strategic collaborations across South Carolina and beyond.

"This expanded board is the bridge between Beaufort's founders and the resources they need to scale," said Jess O'Brien, Executive Director of BDC and BDCF. "Each director brings unique expertise and networks that will unlock new opportunities for mentorship, capital, and regional impact."

Partnership Invitation

The expanded board represents more than governance –- it is a gateway to collaboration. With decades of combined expertise in technology, entrepreneurship, finance, and economic development, BDC is positioned to co-create programs, pilot innovative projects, and connect funders with the region's most promising founders.

Opportunities include:

• Strategic Sponsorships –- Support Beaufort's flagship events and innovation programs.
• Scholarships & Workforce Funding –- Invest directly in the next generation of tech talent.
• Mentorship & Pilot Projects –- Collaborate on initiatives that foster growth and inclusion.

Call to Action: Organizations, funders, and civic partners interested in shaping the future of Beaufort's innovation economy are encouraged to connect with BDC to explore partnership opportunities. Email jess@beaufortdigital.com to start the conversation.

New Board Members

Barry Wilson –- Treasurer
**Wilson has over 35 years in advertising and marketing technology, working with major brands on integrated campaigns. His expertise lies in business communications, brand development and digital strategy. Currently, he is co-owner of AlphaGraphics Beaufort.

David Hartshorn
Hartshorn is a technology executive and nonprofit leader with more than 25 years in digital initiatives, global telecommunications, and fundraising for education, health, AI, and cybersecurity projects.

Raquel Padgett
Padgett brings 20+ years in business development, program design, and consulting, with a focus on supporting minority- and women-owned businesses and connecting them to technology infrastructure opportunities.

Sustaining Board Members

Rich Conte –- Chair
**Conte brings 30+ years in technology, leading product and engineering work at Blackbaud, including identity management and developer tools. He is active in the startup and STEM community as a podcast host, organizer, and advisor.

Chris Robinson –- Vice Chair
Robinson is a visual artist and University of South Carolina Professor Emeritus whose research bridges art and technology, with early work in computer graphics, 3D imaging, light installations, space development, and nanotechnology.

Jason Loia
Loia is a Silicon Valley tech executive with C-suite experience in gaming, AI, and cybersecurity. He advises startups on growth, monetization, and executive leadership.

David Nelems
Nelems is a serial entrepreneur and startup mentor who has led hundreds of companies through the Don Ryan Center for Innovation. He specializes in scaling businesses and emerging technology strategy.

About Beaufort Digital Corridor

The Beaufort Digital Corridor (BDC) is a 501(c)(6) membership organization whose mission is to ignite innovation and economic vitality in Beaufort, S.C., by providing a dynamic ecosystem for tech entrepreneurs, digital pioneers, and tech-centric enterprises. Through resources in talent, collaborative space, community engagement, and access to capital, BDC empowers growth and leadership in the digital economy.

The Beaufort Digital Corridor Foundation (BDCF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to advancing digital literacy and helping diverse communities thrive in high-wage technology industries. BDCF drives inclusive growth and innovation by funding education, mentorship, and workforce development programs.

Become a member: beaufortdigital.com/join
Make a donation: beaufortdigital.com/donate

Beaufort Digital Corridor Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law (EIN: 99-2686137).

Artist Call for Submissions: Beaufort Park Bench Mural Project

The Beaufort Digital Corridor Foundation (BDC) invites local and regional artists to redesign and paint the park bench outside our downtown office. We're looking for a joyful, iconic piece that celebrates Beaufort's culture and its growing spirit of innovation. The design should combine all themes relating to BDC and to Beaufort, including the technology & innovation, the Woods Memorial Bridge, the Run Forrest Run 5K, and local shrimping culture.

For complete project details and design guidelines, review our creative brief HERE >.

Please submit all designs via email to info@beaufortdigital.com. You can also email us with any questions.

September 2025 Newsletter

Welcome to Beaufort and to the Beaufort Digital Corridor community! If you're new to town, just settling into campus, or looking for ways to connect, we're thrilled to have you here.

At BDC, our mission is simple: to grow and support Beaufort's innovation economy by connecting people, ideas, and opportunities. From entrepreneurial workshops and mentorship programs to coworking, internships, and community events, we're here to help you build a business, grow your career, and find your place in our thriving tech community. This summer has been buzzing with fresh energy:

Our member, Jason Loia of Lowcountry Games, teamed up with USCB interns to start developing a groundbreaking AI game about the American Revolution for America's 250th celebration. R&D is still under wraps, but enjoy a sneak peek below!

We also launched our first-ever Lowcountry Content Creators Meetup in partnership with Sasha Talks Tech, where local creators brainstormed and crowd-sourced their "big goals" for the year. The energy in the room was electric, and we can't wait to see where this group goes.

No matter where you are on your journey, you'll find resources and people here to help you thrive. Take advantage of our events, classes, and membership opportunities–-or just stop by BASEcamp and say hello.

We're excited to be part of your Beaufort story.

Cheers,

Jess O'Brien

Executive Director at Beaufort Digital Corridor

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BDC Announces Fall Internship Program

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

BEAUFORT, S.C.–- The Beaufort Digital Corridor (BDC) today announced its Fall Internship Program, offering two in-person, for-credit roles designed to give students hands-on experience in nonprofit tech-ecosystem operations and digital marketing. Positions are based at BDC's downtown office, 500 Carteret St., Ste. D, Beaufort, SC 29902. Applications are now open.

"BDC is looking for go-getters who thrive on creativity and connection," said Jess O'Brien, Executive Director of the Beaufort Digital Corridor. "Our interns won't just observe–-they'll shape experiences, build community, and leave with skills that set them apart."

Open Positions:

Digital Marketing Intern

Responsibilities:

• Manage event listings across websites and community calendars
• Create and schedule content for TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X
• Track analytics and compile performance reports
• Support email campaigns and blog posts
• Provide live coverage of events (photos, reels, stories)

Requirements:
• Self-declared social media guru
• Links to social handles or portfolio required
• Canva/Mailchimp experience a plus

Learning Outcomes:
• Run nonprofit digital marketing campaigns
• Build a portfolio of measurable content
• Adapt messaging for multiple platforms

Member Experience Intern

Responsibilities:

• Greet visitors and serve as first point of contact
• Give tours of the BASEcamp coworking/innovation hub
• Assist with coworking operations and logistics
• Support planning and execution of events and programs
• Track attendance, communications and outcomes

Requirements:
• Strong interpersonal and organizational skills
• Interest in entrepreneurship and community building
• Comfortable multitasking in a fast-paced space

Learning Outcomes:
• Hands-on nonprofit program coordination
• Build project management and communication skills
• Learn how nonprofits track community impact

Details & How to Apply

• Location: Beaufort Digital Corridor, 500 Carteret St., Ste. D, Beaufort, SC 29902

• Hours: 10–15 hours per week

• Compensation: Course credit

• To apply: Send an interest letter and resume/portfolio to jess@beaufortdigital.com.

About the Beaufort Digital Corridor: Beaufort Digital Corridor (BDC) is a 501(c)(6) membership organization. Our mission is to ignite innovation and economic vitality in Beaufort by providing a dynamic ecosystem for tech entrepreneurs, digital pioneers, and tech-centric enterprises. Through strategic resources in talent, collaborative spaces, community engagement, and capital support, we empower growth and leadership in the digital economy.

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

The Beaufort Digital Corridor Opens Its BASEcamp Gallery Summer 2025 Art Exhibition

BASEcamp Gallery'snewest installation, Estuaries by Emma Barnes, opened for viewing on July 24. TheBeaufort Digital Corridor (BDC) is hosting a gallery showing to welcome the artist on the First Friday in August. All are invited to attend the free exhibition on August 1, where they can enjoy light hors d'oeuvres and wine, meet the artist, and socialize with the Corridor's tech community.

The Beaufort Digital Corridor collaborates with local artists to raise awareness of its mission to nurture and promote Beaufort's technology entrepreneurs and ultimately the region's tech economy through an array of impactful programs and events while leveraging Beaufort's renowned livability. The BDC serves as a tech incubator and coworking space for technology professionals, remote tech workers, tech entrepreneurs, and technology students.

The Estuaries collection fills the BDC with sunset hues and visually interesting paintings that warm the soul and bring a feeling of home into the office. The art has resonated well with those coworking at the BDC, with many members excited to attend the exhibition night and take a piece of the office home with them.

"In _Estuaries, _the exploration of materials, nature, and place seeks to deepen our ties between landscape and home, not as a fixed location, but an ever-changing horizon of transformation. This body of work embraces the mixture of plaster and painting material boundaries, an ever-changing artistic process reflected in the ephemerality of local geography," Emma Barnes insightfully shares.

Emma Barnes is a multi-disciplinary artist from Islandton, South Carolina, and she lives locally with her husband, Grant McClure. Barnes teaches Painting, Drawing, and Photography at the University of South Carolina Beaufort (USCB). There's more to learn about the artist and Estuaries by visiting herartist profile.

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