On Wednesday, December 10, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, Allstate and the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce are partnering to leading a critical discussion on how our community can better prepare for and respond to costly natural disasters.

The Cost of Inaction Is Growing
New analysis from Beyond the Payoff shows the economic stakes for our region are significant. Every dollar not invested in preparedness today could cost the Charleston area $16 in lost future economic activity. Underinvestment is projected to result in more than 3,700 lost jobs and a $640 million decline in GDP. With the U.S. experiencing 27 separate billion-dollar disasters last year, stronger resilience planning is no longer optional for communities that want to safeguard lives and long-term economic stability.

A Framework Leaders Can Put to Work Now
Speakers will outline six practical “Levers of Resilience” that local leaders can activate today, from infrastructure upgrades to community engagement strategies. The forum is designed for officials, business leaders and nonprofit partners who want to move from awareness to action.

Representatives from the U.S. Chamber, U.S. Chamber Foundation, Allstate, the Charleston Metro Chamber and state and local government will lead the conversation.

Panelists include:

• Moderator, Kaylan Koszela, Director of Resilience, City of Charleston
• Senator Ed Sutton, South Carolina Senate, 20th District
• Jacquie Berger, Executive Director, Lowcountry Local First

Register now to make sure you’re part of this important conversation.

Event Details

Wednesday, December 10, 2025

8:30 – 10:30 a.m.
Check-on and breakfast begin at 8:30 a.m.

Charleston Marriott
170 Lockwood Boulevard
Charleston, SC 29403