SC can be the next tech hub as long as we ensure our policies are welcoming
South Carolina’s booming economy is the prime spot for innovative technology companies to invest. Not only do we offer family-friendly, vibrant communities, but we also now offer a skilled workforce ready to jump in and hit the ground running. And Myrtle Beach is no exception. Our city offers some of the Carolinas’ most beautiful beaches combined with a bustling economy that is diversifying quickly, with countless unique benefits beyond just beautiful views. This potential is being discovered more recently, as Google recently announced an undersea cable project, called “Firmina,” that will provide faster and reliable access to goods and services. In return, the Firmina project is projected to bring close to $100 million to the Myrtle Beach economy in addition to high-paying jobs.
The Palmetto State has experienced a steady, but slow, influx of technology companies making a presence in the state. Blackbaud came to Charleston, and ScanSource invested in Greenville. Amazon established a fulfillment center near Columbia, and Google made roots with a data center in Berkeley County. This growth has been great and spurred an uptick in programs to better prepare the South Carolina workforce for tech jobs, but we have the potential for so much more.
As innovation booms and technology expands into every part of our lives, so do our economies, skilled work forces and most importantly, technology hubs. Silicon Valley used to be the tech castle on the hill; however, now, innovators and high-tech companies are investing in our communities right here in South Carolina. Tech hubs are popping up left and right in states and communities with welcoming business environments and skilled work forces.
In order to attract more innovative companies and projects to South Carolina, we must make sure we are fostering an environment that welcomes tech and innovation. This means keeping businesses’ entry-level costs low, seeking out new partnerships, and most importantly, not attacking the very companies we hope will come to our state. South Carolina should steer clear of spearheading and/or joining lawsuits against innovative and proactive American technology companies. Our state’s leaders must ensure they are sending the right message. We must understand the opportunities these businesses hold for our state’s communities and realize how tech-targeted lawsuits serve as a hindrance. These issues most certainly affect my city, and we must ensure Myrtle Beach’s interests are always represented.
South Carolina can and will be the home to one of America’s next technology hubs, as long as we ensure our policies are welcoming and our state’s leaders are, too. We have the magnificent real estate, the educated and skilled workforce, and the hospitable communities, now we just need the innovation and technology to take the leap and head to the Palmetto State. As we say, it takes a village, and together – with community leaders and state leaders – we can ensure they feel welcome and invited to our beautiful state and not deterred by anti-technology policies and efforts.