HEC Wins State Grant to Fuel Innovation in Logistics

The Harbor Entrepreneur Center (HEC), a thriving innovation hub in Mount Pleasant, is set to broaden its impact after securing a 2025 Relentless Challenge grant from the South Carolina Department of Commerce. This funding will support the launch of HEC’s Supply Chain Accelerator program, a new initiative aimed at fostering innovation in supply chain-focused industries.

As home to over 100 businesses, HEC has long been a cornerstone of Charleston’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. With this latest grant, the organization is doubling down on its mission to connect startups, mentors, and industry leaders in solving supply chain challenges at local, national, and global levels.

 

A Hub for Supply Chain Innovation

“The Lowcountry is a natural location for nurturing and launching supply chain technologies and solutions,” said Grady Johnson, HEC’s executive director. “With this program, we are excited to collaborate with economic developers and the broader entrepreneurial community to drive meaningful change in the logistics sector.”

The Supply Chain Accelerator will provide startups with critical resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities to accelerate their go-to-market strategies. By doing so, HEC aims to build a stronger, more resilient supply chain ecosystem that meets the growing demands of modern commerce.

 

The Relentless Challenge Grant: Fueling Economic Growth

HEC’s expansion aligns with the goals of the Relentless Challenge, a statewide initiative designed to boost high-growth entrepreneurship, talent development, and innovation commercialization. The grant program seeks to strengthen South Carolina’s business landscape by providing financial backing to projects that enhance the region’s innovation ecosystem.

This recognition underscores HEC’s growing influence and commitment to economic development in South Carolina. With the addition of its logistics-focused programming, HEC is poised to support more startups, generate new jobs, and contribute to the state’s thriving business community.

 

A Booming Entrepreneurial Hub in Mount Pleasant

Since relocating to Mount Pleasant in 2023, HEC has been instrumental in job creation and business expansion. The 30,000+ square foot facility currently supports over 100 businesses, each boasting an average annual revenue of nearly $3 million. More than 80% of these companies have reported significant growth since moving into the HEC space.

Matt Brady, the economic development officer for the Town of Mount Pleasant, praised HEC’s contributions, stating:

“They’ve built something special here, and with the recent grant and new logistics-focused programming, their impact is only growing. Given that the South Carolina Ports Authority is headquartered in Mount Pleasant, this expansion is a perfect fit. We see exciting opportunities ahead.”

The Town of Mount Pleasant remains a proud supporter of HEC, recognizing its role in fostering innovation, creating jobs, and strengthening the local economy.

 

Breathing New Life into an Old Space

HEC’s current location at 11 Ewall St. was once home to ATD, a company that moved its operations to New York City after an acquisition by Citigroup. For years, much of the 18-acre property remained vacant, but since HEC’s arrival in 2023, the space has transformed into a bustling entrepreneurial hub.

The demand for space within HEC continues to grow, with a waiting list of businesses eager to join. This latest grant will further solidify HEC’s position as a key player in South Carolina’s innovation economy, helping startups and entrepreneurs thrive in an increasingly complex global marketplace.

With the Supply Chain Accelerator set to launch this month, HEC is ready to lead the charge in revolutionizing logistics and supply chain solutions, ensuring that Charleston remains a powerhouse for entrepreneurship and business growth.