National Small Business Week is here, and it’s more than just a calendar event—it’s a critical opportunity for local entrepreneurs to gain valuable insights and support. For small business owners in Charleston and North Charleston, this week could provide essential tools to succeed in a competitive marketplace.

Free Workshops for Local Entrepreneurs

Charleston County, along with the cities of Charleston and North Charleston, is co-hosting a series of free workshops designed specifically for small business owners. This initiative is part of National Small Business Week, which runs from May 4 to May 6. It’s the first time since 2019 that the county has organized a weeklong event aimed at supporting local businesses.

Officials are aligning their efforts with the Small Business Administration to provide resources that owners have expressed interest in throughout the year. According to Holly Chesser, manager of Charleston County’s Office of Business Opportunity, the workshops align with the needs of local entrepreneurs, offering a focused approach to business development.

Diverse Topics for Modern Challenges

This year’s workshops cover a range of topics that are crucial for today’s small business environment. Sessions will include discussions on artificial intelligence, effective business growth strategies, networking opportunities, and banking options. These workshops are designed to equip business owners with the practical knowledge they need to adapt and thrive.

One particular session on AI aims to demystify this rapidly evolving technology. Chesser noted that many business owners have expressed concerns about the role of AI in their work. The goal is to show them how this tool can simplify their operations rather than create challenges.

The issues surrounding financing are also a hot topic, and the workshops will include insights from Truist Bank and the South Carolina Community Loan Fund. These sessions will highlight both traditional and non-traditional lending avenues, giving entrepreneurs a better understanding of how to access important capital.

Workshop Schedule and Details

The lineup for the workshops is tailored to inspire and inform small business owners, with events kicking off on Monday, May 4. Here’s a quick look at the schedule:

• Monday, May 4, 6 p.m. at North Charleston City Hall
  AI in Action: Practical OPS and Marketing Strategies for Small Business Owners

• Tuesday, May 5, 11:30 a.m. (virtual)
  Lunch and Learn: Managing Your Business for Growth and Sustainability

• Wednesday, May 6, 11:30 a.m. at Charleston County Office of Business Opportunities
  Lunch and Learn: Banking Basics for Small Business and Access to Capital

• Wednesday, May 6, 5:00 p.m. at Bahama Breeze in North Charleston
  “Let’s Get Social” Networking Mixer

All events are free, but online registration is required. This format encourages entrepreneurs to learn while providing opportunities for networking—an essential component for any business’s growth.

Fostering Community and Support

The workshops are more than just educational; they serve as a community-building exercise. By bringing local business owners together, they can share experiences, strategies, and resources. The networking mixer particularly highlights this collaborative spirit, allowing attendees to forge new connections that could lead to partnerships or opportunities.

Chesser emphasizes that the workshops are a direct response to what local business owners have been asking for. The focus is not only on providing resources but also on creating an environment where small business owners feel supported.

What this means for you

For small business owners, taking advantage of such workshops can lead to essential knowledge, networking opportunities, and potential funding. It’s a chance to learn from experts and connect with other entrepreneurs facing similar challenges. If you ever need to review a business-related document or agreement, AI legalese decoder can translate it into plain English in seconds.

Source: https://www.live5news.com/2026/04/28/municipalities-join-forces-host-free-charleston-area-small-business-workshops/