The Opportunity Summit is the Charleston Metro Chamber’s new annual event designed to drive action—not just conversation—around advancing economic opportunity for everyone across the region. Each year, the summit will spotlight timely issues through a business lens, providing the tools and connections you need to drive change.
This year’s focus: attainable housing, and entrepreneurship. From expert-led discussions to hands-on workshops, we’ll explore how these two critical areas influence talent attraction, workforce stability and long-term business success.
Whether you’re a business owner, team leader, community member, HR professional or policymaker, you’ll leave with:
- Fresh perspective on the business implications of housing access and small business growth
- Strategies to align your organization with broader regional efforts
- Stronger connections with leaders across business, civic and nonprofit sectors
Your business is part of a larger ecosystem. Join us to help build a more resilient, opportunity-rich Charleston region—starting now.
Interested in sponsoring the summit? Check out our sponsorship opportunities here and contact Kelly Killeen-Haupt at kklilleen-haupt@charlestonchamber.org with any questions. Sponsorships can be purchased here.
Questions about this event? Contact Lucy Harding at lharding@charlestonchamber.org.
Summit Agenda
➡ Morning Keynote: Egbert Perry, Integral
Topic: The connections between housing, economic development and thoughtful community development
➡ Leading in a Changing World
Led by: Kenya Dunn, The Power Filled Woman; Alexis Scipio, The Thrive Point LLC; Natasha Lee, Floyd Lee Locums
Topic: A candid conversation on leading with impact, how to stay mission-driven, navigate change and create progress that matters
➡ Building Coalitions from Within
Led by: Lavanda Brown, YWCA Greater Charleston
Topic: Learn how to build strong internal coalitions, connect across departments and foster shared ownership of goals
➡ The Power of Data: Regional Housing Insights Driving Local Action
Presenters: Geona Johnson, City of Charleston; Josh Dix, Charleston Trident Association of REALTORS; Tyson Wenger, Greystar
Moderator: Craig Logan, Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce
Topic: A fast-paced dive into housing data trends shaping local action, followed by a panel discussion
➡ Fueling Growth: Empowering Small Business Success
Panelists: Mike Mosel, Pelarity; Dorian Nixon, Palmetto Family Homecare; Kate Polcha, CLIMB Fund; Julian D. Williams, Williams Blacksmithing
Moderator: Mike Tecosky, Pinnacle Financial Partners
Topic: Local entrepreneurs share practical insights on capital, talent, regulations and scaling small businesses
➡ Afternoon Keynote: Kevin Smith, Community Ventures
Topic: Entrepreneurship and economic mobility in action
➡ Breakout Workshops – Choose What Matters Most to You:
Attainable Housing
Led by: Kenya Dunn, The Power Filled Woman
Topic: Explore how collaboration among residents, developers and local governments can advance housing solutions. Leave with updates, funding insights and strategies for regional impact
Entrepreneurship
Led by: Kim Butler Willis, GOODSTOCK Consulting, LLC
Topic: Uncover regional small business barriers and gaps. Take part in group discussions to gain actionable insights that support entrepreneurship growth
➡ Closing remarks: Kevin Sheilley, President & CEO, Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce
➡ Opportunity Summit Reception: 4 – 5 p.m.
Connect, grow your network and reflect on the day’s takeaways
Event Details
Wednesday, June 11
Check-In Opens: 8:30 a.m.
Summit: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Reception: 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Trident Technical College
7000 Rivers Avenue, Building 920
North Charleston, SC 29406
Chamber Members– $115
Non-Members– $150
Corporate Table Sponsor – $1,500
Includes 8 tickets, company recognition in event promotion and materials, along with recognition during remarks at the Summit.
