Networking doesn’t have to be all business (sometimes it can include beer, breakfast, or a live painting class). But, when searching for a networking group, it’s important to connect with a group that can help you work toward your goals.
In other words, if you’re looking to break into Charleston’s hot tech scene, an agricultural group may not help you find your dream job.
Whether you’re new to the area, switching careers, an entrepreneur, or a seasoned professional, we’ve got a group for you.
So close your LinkedIn app, grab your business cards (yes, the physical papers ones with your email on them), and get your ice-breakers ready. It’s time to get out there, Charleston. You never know who you will meet.
Charleston Hoteliers Network
A non-profit organization that provides the opportunity to network professionally +increase sales goals by establishing partnerships with businesses and individuals in the Charleston hospitality industry. The group meets once/month + gives back to a local charity. Their 2019 charity is My Sisters House.
Charleston Young Professionals
An organization with 900+ members that are up and coming in their professions throughout the Charleston region. Specifically designed for, well, young professionals.
Lowcountry Local First
A 501(c)3 nonprofit created for local independent businesses. Both independent and business memberships are available + events are open to both members and nonmembers.
Hatch Tribe
Designed for women who are searching for the tribe. While there is currently a waitlist to join, events are open to both members and nonmembers.
Startup Grind Charleston
A global community with a Charleston chapter, lead by Jeremy Berman, to connect entrepreneurs. Conferences, events, + an invite-only accelerate group help give fast-growth startups the tools they need.
Creative Mornings Charleston
A breakfast lecture series designed for the creative community. Free monthly events feature short talks by local creatives with plenty of opportunities to mix and mingle with other like-minded locals. While the events are free, registration fills up fast so be sure to sign up for their email list!
Mindful Mornings Charleston
A monthly Friday morning forum for “do-gooders” in the community who are working to make Charleston a better place. Each month, start your morning with a mindful meditation + hear from a local inspirational speaker. The speakers are never revealed beforehand.
1 Million Cups
Designed for local entrepreneurs looking to present their startups + connect with other local founders. Join them every Wednesday at 9 a.m. at Frothy Beard Brewing Co.
Ellevate
A networking group designed for women to provide women with professional development + mentorship. Monthly events, such as ‘Coffee Connect’ are open to both members and nonmembers.
Charleston American Marketing Association
Specifically for Charleston marketers, the Charleston chapter offers luncheons, local and national discounts, monthly events.
Charleston Women in Tech
Connecting the more than 2,400 Charleston women in technology + providing them with resources such as mentorship, educational programming, and one on one support.
Charleston Open Source
An organization bringing together local developers, designers, entrepreneurs, + tech leaders to offer support, networking, + job opportunities.
Lowcountry Creative Writing Forum
A group of more than 2,000 members offering workshops + events for writers of every kind.
Women Entrepreneurs of Charleston
“Women on a mission to women on a mission to support women on a mission.” Founded by Melissa Barker, this group offers monthly events for both members and nonmembers.
First Friday Charleston
A once-a-month gathering of professionals looking to meet new people.
Just Moved to Charleston
Whether you’re looking to network with other business professionals or just watch a movie on the beach with someone other than your dog, this group can help you meet others who are new to the area + have some fun in the process.
Together SC
“An organization focused solely on supporting and strengthening the state’s nonprofit community through education, advocacy, communications, collaboration and leadership.”
This is not meant to be a definitive list and there are many more networking groups in the Charleston area. If there’s a group you think we should add to our list, tell us more about it here. Some groups may require membership fees.
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Is there a local networking group you think should be added to our list? Tell us about it here.