Chucktown U: Introduction to The Harbor Entrepreneur Center and Accelerator Program

The December edition of the monthly Chucktown U Virtual Event Series will focus on a longstanding pillar of the Charleston entrepreneurial ecosystem: The Harbor Entrepreneur Center. 

Located in Mount Pleasant, SC, The Harbor Entrepreneur Center is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization founded in 2013 by two local entrepreneurs + advocates. They’ve supported more than 200 companies through their programs over the last 10 years. Their alumni have received over $7 million in private sector investments. Many local businesses partner with the Harbor EC annually to support the growth of new companies and the continued development of Charleston’s entrepreneurial community.

Mission: To create collision among the entrepreneur community. By nature, entrepreneurs are problem solvers. We believe by connecting the thinkers, the doers and visionaries we will support the economic vitality of the region. An entrepreneur’s journey is a unique one. Founded and operated by entrepreneurs who live the journey, The Harbor leverages this experience to support entrepreneurs at any stage.

Accelerator: The Harbor Accelerator program engages the cohort of accepted companies in a focused Market Validation curriculum curated by the Harbor’s proven entrepreneurs. This hands-on mentoring by the founders of some of the region’s most successful companies helps young companies build a strong customer acquisition platform as a basic building block for growth. The mentors’ input is enhanced by the Harbor’s extensive list of subject matter experts who provide an “on call” wealth of knowledge. The experience is rounded out by repeated practice of a vital skill needed by all company leaders: The Pitch.

Forum: As you grow your business, you will face many new challenges. Whether it’s a worker’s comp issue, a new marketing opportunity, or a difficult client, you can bring any issue to Forum.

Presenter: Grady Johnson, Executive Director of The Harbor Entrepreneur Center

Date: Wednesday, December 3, 2025

Time: 12:00 Noon to 12:45 PM

Registration: Click here to register