Why Aiken’s Business Community Should Be at the 2026 New Nuclear Forum | | |
This April, our region has a unique opportunity to be at the center of one of the most important conversations shaping the future of energy, workforce, and economic development. The Energy Communities Alliance (ECA) New Nuclear Forum will take place April 21–24, 2026, just next door in Augusta, Georgia—bringing national leaders in government, industry, and innovation directly to our doorstep.
Hosted at the Augusta Marriott at the Convention Center, this annual forum is the only event of its kind designed to connect local communities with federal agencies, policymakers, utilities, developers, and nuclear industry leaders.
Why This Matters for Aiken
For over 75 years, the Savannah River Site has been at the center of the nuclear conversation. But the future of nuclear energy, especially advancements like small modular reactors (SMRs), new fuel technologies, and recycling, will play a critical role in shaping economic growth, workforce opportunities, and energy security across our region. The New Nuclear Forum is where those conversations turn into action.
Attendees will gain insight into:
- Emerging nuclear technologies and their real-world applications
- Opportunities for communities to attract and support nuclear projects
- Policy, regulatory, and funding developments at the federal and state level
- Strategies for building successful public-private partnerships
The forum is part of ECA’s broader New Nuclear Initiative, which focuses on defining how local governments and communities can actively participate in—and benefit from—next-generation nuclear development.
Who Should Attend
This forum is not just for scientists or engineers—it’s designed for community and business leaders. Ideal attendees include:
- Business owners and executives
- Economic development professionals
- Local government officials
- Workforce and education leaders
- Entrepreneurs interested in energy, infrastructure, or supply chain opportunities
If your work touches growth, infrastructure, workforce, or innovation, this forum is highly relevant.
A Front-Row Seat to the Future
Over the course of the event, participants will engage in plenary sessions, in-depth discussions, and networking opportunities with leaders from the U.S. Department of Energy, national laboratories, utilities, and private industry.
The goal is simple: bring the right people together to identify opportunities, tackle challenges, and build the partnerships necessary to move nuclear projects forward.
For a community like Aiken—where energy, innovation, and economic development intersect—this is more than just a conference. It’s a chance to ensure our region has a voice in shaping what comes next.
Be Part of the Conversation
Opportunities like this don’t come around often—especially when they’re happening just minutes away.
We encourage our members to take advantage of this proximity, make valuable connections, and gain insight into an industry that will play a major role in the future of our region and beyond.
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Accelerating the Aiken Startup Ecosystem:
The Venture Lab
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Designed to support local entrepreneurs, small business owners, and aspiring founders, Venture Lab Aiken offers a dynamic series of opportunities to learn, grow, and connect. Through a combination of free workshops, pitch contests, a virtual incubator, and a summer accelerator, the program is built to help turn ideas into real, scalable businesses. Whether you're just getting started or looking to take your business to the next level, Venture Lab Aiken provides the tools and community to move forward with confidence.
A highlight of the series is Founders Night, an opportunity to connect with fellow innovators and the people helping shape Aiken’s growing entrepreneurial ecosystem. It’s a chance to build relationships, exchange ideas, and be part of something bigger than your business alone.
The upcoming schedule includes a range of workshops designed to challenge thinking and sharpen strategy:
(9 a.m., Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative)
This session emphasizes that while ideas are important, building a successful
business requires discipline, adaptability, and a willingness to challenge your
own assumptions.
A casual, high-impact networking event for founders, entrepreneurs, and
supporters of Aiken’s business community.
In a world saturated with AI-generated content, this workshop focuses on how
founders can stand out by communicating with clarity, conviction, and
purpose.
Learn how to leverage AI to streamline sales processes, improve messaging,
and scale your business without burnout.
Entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to pitch their ideas, gain valuable
feedback, and compete in a fun, high-energy environment.
Whether you attend a single workshop or engage with the full series, Venture Lab Aiken is an investment in both your business and the broader Aiken community. And if you’re not an entrepreneur yourself, consider sharing this opportunity with someone who is—because strong businesses build a stronger Aiken.
Registration is free for all workshops and pitch contest.
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Introducing Mugs & Mentors:
Coffee, Conversation and Career Connections
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The Aiken Chamber of Commerce is excited to launch Mugs & Mentors, a new series designed to bring emerging professionals together with seasoned business and community leaders. This informal conversation series provides a welcoming space to ask leadership questions, gain career advice, and build meaningful connections across generations.
And it’s not just for early-career professionals—mid-career individuals are encouraged to join as well. After all, the best leaders never stop learning.
Upcoming Mentor Lineups
Mark your calendar and RSVP for these insightful sessions:
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April 23: Dr. Dan Heimmermann, Chancellor at USCA, and Hetal Acharekar, Owner of PerformanceAbove
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May 12: Catina Broadwater, Broker-in-Charge at Broadwater-Toole Realty
If you know a young professional on your team or network—or anyone rising into leadership—encourage them to attend. It’s a chance to learn from experienced leaders and build connections that can support you throughout your career.
Mugs & Mentors is proudly sponsored by Carolina HVAC & Electrical. Each session begins at 9 a.m. at the Aiken Chamber and lasts about an hour.
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Hetal Acharekar
Owner of PerformanceAbove LLC
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Dr. Dan Heimmermann
Chancellor at USC Aiken
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Catina Broadwater
Broker-In-Charge at Broadwater-Toole Realty
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Representing Small Businesses
at the Statehouse
The Aiken Chamber of Commerce, along with a delegation of local small business owners, will head to the South Carolina Statehouse in Columbia on April 30 for this year’s Small Business Day at the Statehouse. This advocacy event, organized by the South Carolina Manufacturers and Commerce, brings together small business owners from across the Palmetto State to ensure their voices are heard loud and clear by state leaders.
The Small Business Day at the Statehouse event underscores the critical role small businesses play in local communities while offering a direct line of communication with state leaders to address their needs. Attendees will have the opportunity to network with peers, engage in meaningful policy discussions, and gain valuable insights into issues affecting their businesses, with the day culminating in the presentation of the Small Business of the Year Award.
Small businesses represent 99.5% of all businesses in South Carolina and 98.7% of the Aiken Chamber membership. Defined by the Small Business Administration as businesses with fewer than 500 employees, small businesses play a critical role in the state’s economy by driving innovation, job creation, and economic growth. Small business owners are uniquely positioned to share firsthand experiences that can help inform policies affecting the business landscape.
Aiken’s small business owners are deeply invested in the community, offering valuable perspectives on the needs and priorities of local businesses. By engaging with small business owners, state legislators can make more informed decisions that positively impact the economy and the overall well-being of their constituents.
“It’s critical that our state leaders recognize the impact small businesses have on South Carolina’s economy,” said Jim Tunison, President/CEO of the Aiken Chamber of Commerce. “Small Business Day at the Statehouse gives our business community a valuable opportunity to be seen, heard, and actively engaged in the conversations shaping their future.”
If you are interested in attending this trip to the State House, email Kathy Boyette at kboyette@aikenchamber.net or call 803-614-1111.
| Attendees from Small Business Day at the Statehouse, 2025. | | |
Small Business Strategy Check In: 10 Questions to Help You Reflect
Written by Amy Winner, February 25, 2026
I’ve been making the rounds, talking to small and local business owners a lot recently. Let me just say, y’all are the most passionate, dedicated, relentlessly optimistic business people out there. You’re not just running a business, you’re trying to make your community better while you’re at it. That kind of commitment deserves some love. (Also, a reminder to everyone else: Shop local.)
That passion, though, comes with a lot of plate spinning. For most small business owners, carving out time to think strategically feels like a luxury. I recently sat down with a mother–daughter team navigating a booming market while the mom is eyeing retirement and the daughter is figuring out how to make the business her own. It’s exciting. It’s emotional. And it’s overwhelming. When the day-to-day is coming at you fast, it’s easy to let the current carry you without much intentionality. That works… until it doesn’t.
Ironically, when business is good, being intentional about what’s next can feel like a waste of time. Why slow down when things are working? But planning now is how you turn inevitable ebbs and flows into mostly flows. You don’t need a 40-page growth plan or a consultant speaking in buzzwords. You just need a clear-eyed look at where you are and where the opportunity actually is.
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Aiken Secure Storage
Storage Buildings
Providing standard self-storage units and parking in Aiken, SC. Our facility offers drive-up access, 24/7 security monitoring, and flexible month-to-month leasing for residential and commercial customers in Aiken, Graniteville, North Augusta, Warrenville and the surrounding CSRA area. RV, boat and vehicle storage available.
1693 Edgefield Highway
Aiken, SC 29801
Contact: Jason Vondersmith
Phone: (804) 489-8463
www.aikensecurestorage.com
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Aikenite Electrical Services LLC
Electrical Contractor
Powering homes and businesses for over 10 years in the Aiken area. We deliver safe, reliable, quality service with professionalism and care. Trust us to bring light where it’s needed most.
310 Grandys Mill Road
Williston, SC 29853
Contact: Hailee Raker
Phone: (317) 443-3620
http://www.aikenite-electrical.com
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Bespoke Ceremonies
Events & Catering
An ordained minister/wedding officiant qualified to perform wedding ceremonies. Specializes in non-religious, personalized wedding ceremonies.
Aiken, SC 29803
Contact: Suzanne Garber
Phone: (803) 293-5909
www.bespokeceremonies.biz
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Chief Living Solutions, INC.
Addiction + Recovery Services
Veteran-owned sober living program providing structured housing, accountability, and supportive community for veterans and individuals in recovery, promoting stability, purpose, and long-term independence.
110 Mockernut Circle
Aiken, SC 29803
Contact: Joshua Beler
www.chieflivingsolutions.com
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Granite Counter Tops Unlimited
Granite, Tile & Stone
Countertop fabricator and importer of all natural stones and man-made quartz slabs. We import our slabs direct from Italy, Brazil, and India. Our slab warehouse is 16,000 square feet for customers to come look and pick out their new countertops. Established in 2000 we are a family owned and operated incorporation.
1061 Old Middleton Road
Elberton, GA 30635
Contact: Greg Moon
Phone: (706) 283-8827
www.granitecountertopsunlimited.com
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Hair of the Dog Aiken LLC
Pet Grooming
Specializing in calm, stress-free grooming in a quiet space where pups feel safe, relaxed, and loved. From a quick Bath & Tidies to a full spa day. Happy tails, gentle care and lots of cuddles.
225 Richland Avenue, E
Aiken, SC 29801
Contact: Isabel Igoe
Phone: (803) 998-7285
https://hair-of-the-dog-101741.square.site
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iCode Augusta
Education
Making STEM education fun! Our instructor-led, hands-on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) classes and camps utilize gamified learning techniques to keep students engaged and excited to learn.
229 Furys Ferry Road
Augusta, GA 30907
Contact: Kenneth Peeples
Phone: (706) 303-1212
www.icodeschool.com/augusta-ga
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Miracle-Ear
Hearing Services
Everyone deserves to realize the full potential of their passions, relationships and life. Here at Miracle-Ear Hearing Aid Center Aiken, SC, we’ll be there for you every step of the way. What’s most important to us is the relationship we’re able to build with each customer along their hearing care journey. We’re eager to help!
550 Silver Bluff Road, Suite 100
Aiken, SC 29803
Contact: Diane Minick, HAS-0766
Phone: (803) 642-2328
www.miracle-ear.com/aikensc
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Passanante's Home Food Services
Shopping + Specialty Retail
Sincer 1916 we specialize in serving our clients the best farm-to-table meats, organic vegetables, and wild seafood we can source. For more information, and to request your free food sample, please visit our website and learn how Passanante’s is right for you.
14361 Ocean Highway, #311
Pawleys Island, SC 29585
Contact: Steve Fahey
Phone: (800) 772-7786
www.homefoodservices.com
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Sportsclips
Barber Shop
Haircuts designed for men and boys, done by the pros in men’s hair. Sports on TV, expert stylists, and no appointment needed. Walk in when you’re ready, walk out feeling like an MVP.
2932 Whiskey Road
Aiken, SC 29803
Contact: Bill Voegtle
Phone: (803) 220-1624
www.sportclips.com/us-aiken-whiskey-road-sc405
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Sweet B's
Ice Cream
Soft Serve and regular ice cream shop with milkshakes, sundaes and flurries.
137 Laurens Street, SW
Aiken, SC 29801
Contact: Roschele Buraszeski
Phone: (839) 228-0664
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Veg Out
Restaurant
Serving vibrant, plant-based meals alongside thoughtfully crafted herbal blends created to nourish the body, calm the mind, and support everyday wellness. Rooted in care, flavor, and intention, Veg Out is more than a restaurant. It’s a place to feel good.
1619 Whiskey Road
Aiken, SC 29803
Contact: Andrew Krull
Phone: (970) 799-2502
https://www.vegoutofaiken.com/
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The Vintage Bobbin
Shopping + Specialty Retail
Fabric shop offering quality fabrics and sewing classes.
754 Silver Bluff Road
Aiken, SC 29803
Contact: Tanya Hoffman
Phone: (839) 839-5293
www.vintagebobbin.com
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Building Aiken's Future
one ribbon cutting at a time
| | On February 24, the Aiken Chamber celebrated the grand opening of Chase Bank with an official ribbon cutting. Cutting the ribbon is Branch Manager Brandee Gonzalez accompanied by Aiken Chamber President/CEO Jim Tunison. They are joined by Chase Bank employees and members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador Team. Notably in attendance was councilwoman Kay Brohl and Aiken Chamber Immediate Past Chair Molly Jones. This location at 481 Fabian Dr. reflects Chase’s commitment to investing in local communities by hiring locally and intentionally choosing a site that is easily accessible for residents and businesses. The branch will offer small business lending support, wealth management and advisory services, and plans to host financial health workshops and community partnerships in the near future. For more information on their services, call 803-845-6618. | | On February 24, the Aiken Chamber celebrated the recent grand opening of Laziza Mediterranean Grill in Aiken with an official ribbon cutting. Cutting the ribbon are owners Lisa and Nader Khatib accompanied by Aiken Chamber President/CEO Jim Tunison. They are joined by staff and members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador Team. Laziza Mediterranean Grill offers fresh, family-inspired Mediterranean cuisine rooted in traditional Lebanese flavors. Established with a mission to bring bold, high-quality Mediterranean dishes to the community, the restaurant serves a variety of favorites such as marinated chicken shawarma, savory beef & lamb gyros, tender kebabs, and flavorful falafels. Guests can also enjoy a selection of beer, wine and cocktails at the bar as well as an outdoor patio area. Catering options are also available. Laziza Mediterranean Grill is located at 2924 Whiskey Rd. For more information and full menu, visit www.lazizagrill.com. | | On February 26, the Aiken Chamber celebrated a new partnership within Edward Jones Investments, Kough with an official ribbon cutting. Cutting the ribbon are Alicia Kough, Ned Kough, Charlene Parker and Kendra Harrison. They are joined by Aiken Chamber President/CEO Jim Tunison and members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador Team. Ned D. Kough, who recently partnered with his mother Alicia Kough, serves as a Financial Advisor with Edward Jones, concentrating on areas like retirement income strategies, estate and legacy strategies, business retirement plans, college savings, and broader wealth strategies. Their office is located at 407 Hayne Ave SW. Edward Jones is a well-established financial services firm that has been helping individuals, families, and small businesses pursue their long-term financial goals through personalized advice, investment management, retirement planning, college savings strategies, and legacy planning. For more information on their services, call (803) 649-5138. | | On February 26, the Aiken Chamber celebrated the new location for Local Threads with an official ribbon cutting. Cutting the ribbon is owner Theresa Cheek accompanied by Aiken Chamber President/CEO Jim Tunison. They are joined by friends and members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador Team. Local Threads, sharing a space with White Rose Eclectics, is a stylish women’s boutique that offers a thoughtfully curated selection of business-casual and versatile wardrobe pieces designed to help women look and feel confident in every part of their day. Shoppers will find tailored blazers, dresses, tops, and bottoms that transition effortlessly from work to evening, including accessories like jewelry, scarves, and bags. The shop also offers a children's clothing section. Local Threads is located at 142 Laurens St. SW. in a shared space with White Rose Eclectics. For more information, visit www.localthreadsaiken.com. | | On March 16, the Aiken Chamber celebrated the soon-to-be grand opening of Dos Potrillos Mexican Restaurant with an official ribbon cutting. Cutting the ribbon is owner Silvia Garibay accompanied by Aiken Chamber President/CEO Jim Tunison. They are joined by Silvia's family and members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador Team. Dos Potrillos Taqueria, LLC has grown from a popular local food truck into a permanent downtown Aiken location, where they continue serving authentic Mexican street food made fresh daily. Operated by the Garibay family, Dos Potrillos was founded with the goal of bringing traditional, homemade Mexican flavors to the Aiken community. They are located at 119 Laurens St. NW and will be open as of March 23. For more information, call 803-770-9043. | | |
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Food, music, theatre, equine activities and even drag racing are just the beginning when it comes to things to do in Aiken.
Sponsored by SRP Federal Credit Union, Aiken Regional Medical Centers, and Whiskey Alley, the Aiken Chamber Weekend Rundown is a once-a-week email highlighting the many happenings in Aiken.
Join the email list HERE, stay in the know, and get connected to your community.
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