bringing BASEcamp close to capacity

Beaufort Digital Corridor announces Life Launcher as this year's student entrepreneurs in residence for the summer Live Work Mentor (LWM) program, adding to the growing tech scene in Beaufort.

Life Launcher, whose tech-product addresses student loan debt, was one of this year's teams in the College of Charleston ImpactX accelerator program. BDC Board Vice Chair Matt D'Angelo served as a judge for the final pitch competition and extended the invitation after interacting with the teams: "Our LWM program strives to provide a vibrant, focused environment for the college team to accelerate their company development, and Life Launcher really demonstrates a great level of dedication and enthusiasm. They are a great match for the summer program and we're really excited to have them!"

In partnership with Rotary Club of the Lowcountry and University of South Carolina Beaufort, four students will live at USCB Housing in Beaufort and work out of BASEcamp. Last year's pilot program was a success with Pollpit, who met their goal of completing a business plan under the guidance of mentors and building a test app during their time in Beaufort. They brought an infectious energy to the Digital Corridor and surrounding community, and the same is expected with Life Launcher.

In its third year of operation the Digital Corridor is undeniably becoming a viable influence on the Lowcountry's tech economy. With the addition of Life Launcher, BASEcamp will be at or near 100% capacity this summer and there is a waiting list for office residency consideration. We are seeing an uptick in coworking drop-ins and subscriptions, and several student interns from area colleges will be at BASEcamp this summer working for resident and member companies. Also, new BDC Board member, Dr. Robert LeFavi, Dean of USCB Beaufort Campus, will be key to the increasing strategic programs between USCB and BDC that encourage the flow of students to Beaufort and BASEcamp.

Talent is one of the pillars of the Beaufort Digital Corridor. The economic vitality, global competitiveness, and prosperity of our country and of the Beaufort community depends on the innovation and skills of our workforce. To draw in and develop talent like this is beneficial for all.