May 28, 2026

The American Dream Lives in Aiken:

New Chamber Podcast Highlights Local Business Stories

In every corner of Aiken, there is a story waiting to be told. Behind every storefront, family business, startup, restaurant, and local service is a person who took a chance, worked hard, and built something meaningful. And not just for themselves, but for our entire community. Those stories are now taking center stage through the Aiken Chamber of Commerce’s new American Dream Podcast.

The podcast shines a spotlight on local business owners, entrepreneurs, and community leaders who are living out their version of the American Dream right here in Aiken. Through honest conversations and personal storytelling, listeners get a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges, sacrifices, victories, and inspiration that come with building a business and creating a life rooted in purpose.

In a world where headlines often focus on big cities and national brands, the American Dream Podcast reminds us that big dreams are alive and thriving in small towns like Aiken. Here, success is measured not only in profit, but in perseverance. It is found in the local business owner opening their doors before sunrise, the entrepreneur taking a leap of faith on a new idea, and the families who have poured generations of heart into serving this community.

Aiken has always been a place where people can build something lasting. Whether someone is launching their first business, reinventing themselves after hardship, or expanding a lifelong passion into a career, the spirit of opportunity continues to define our community. The American Dream Podcast captures those moments and preserves them for others to learn from and be inspired by.

The Chamber’s goal is simple: celebrate the people behind the businesses and create a platform where their voices can encourage others to dream bigger.

And now, the Chamber is looking for more stories to share.

Local business owners, entrepreneurs, and community members with a story to tell are encouraged to participate in future podcast episodes. Those interested can contact Whitney Goodwin at wgoodwin@aikenchamber.net. Community members who would prefer to share their story through written words to be shared via social media feature instead can reach out to Kathy Boyette at kboyette@aikenchamber.net. Because at the heart of the American Dream is not fame or perfection. It is courage, determination, and the belief that where you start does not limit where you can go. And in Aiken, those dreams are still being built every single day.

You can watch current and future episodes of the American Dream Podcast on the Aiken Chamber’s YouTube channel, Spotify, and social media platforms.

In the most recent episode, Aiken Chamber President/CEO Jim Tunison interviews

Dan Goodwin, owner of local small business Fox and the Bee Farm. 

An example of what a social media graphic would look like for a member who wants to share their American Dream digitally instead of on the podcast. 

Call for Artists: Launchpad Aiken Mural Project Seeks Visionary Local Talent

The Aiken Chamber of Commerce is calling on artists to help bring the vision of Launchpad Aiken to life through a new large-scale mural project that will celebrate the community’s entrepreneurial spirit, innovation, and culture.

Located inside the Aiken Chamber of Commerce, Launchpad Aiken, formerly Meta Business Suite, is a newly established entrepreneurial space created through a partnership with Meta. Designed as a rotating launchpad for small businesses and startups, the space will provide entrepreneurs with opportunities to test concepts, gain exposure, and build momentum before moving into permanent locations.

As part of the project, the Chamber is seeking local and regional artists to submit mural concepts for a 16-foot-by-9-foot interior wall that will serve as a visual centerpiece of the space. The mural is intended to reflect the energy and future of Aiken while honoring the community’s rich heritage and growing business ecosystem.

Artists are encouraged to create concepts inspired by entrepreneurship, innovation, workforce development, advanced manufacturing, downtown Aiken culture, tourism, equestrian heritage, and the Savannah River Site and Savannah River National Laboratory. The Chamber also welcomes designs that capture Aiken’s “live-work-play” spirit and sense of community connection.

Preference will be given to artists with strong ties to Aiken County and the surrounding region.

Interested artists should submit an artist bio or resume, portfolio examples, a digital rendering or concept sketch, a brief written description of the artistic vision, and a proposed timeline and budget.

The submission deadline is June 30, 2026, with the selected artist expected to be announced on July 10, 2026. The project is anticipated to be completed by August 28, 2026.

Submissions should be emailed to Whitney Goodwin at wgoodwin@aikenchamber.net. Artists are also encouraged to visit the Chamber to view the mural space in person. The Aiken Chamber of Commerce looks forward to partnering with an artist to create a meaningful piece that celebrates Aiken’s business community and future growth.

A New Initiative to Support Recovery-Friendly Workplaces Launches in Aiken County

Employees struggling with untreated substance use issues experience 44% higher annual turnover rates, creating costly challenges for employers already facing workforce shortages and retention concerns. In the CSRA, where one in three families is directly affected by addiction, local leaders and behavioral health professionals are working together on a new initiative designed to strengthen both workplaces and the community.

The Aiken County Resilient Workforce Network: Creating Recovery-Friendly Workplaces is a grant-funded program designed to increase opioid-use literacy, reduce stigma surrounding recovery, and equip employers with practical tools to better support employees and workplace wellness. The initiative is funded through the South Carolina Opioid Recovery Fund (SCORF) and administered by Aiken County Government, with Aiken Center serving as the primary grant recipient and program lead.

The employer-facing programming is being delivered in partnership with Side By Side Strategies, which specializes in community planning, organizational strategy, and addiction recovery frameworks. The program combines professional expertise with real-world leadership experience to help local businesses better understand the connection between workforce resilience and recovery support. The Aiken Chamber of Commerce is also playing a key role by helping connect the initiative with HR managers, employers, and business leaders across the county.

According to program leaders, substance misuse continues to create major workforce challenges for employers, contributing to absenteeism, turnover, healthcare costs, and hiring difficulties. At the same time, national research shows that employees in recovery often demonstrate strong loyalty, lower absenteeism, and reduced turnover rates compared to the general workforce.

The initiative will provide:

• Opioid-use literacy and awareness sessions
• Training for managers and HR professionals
• Recovery-friendly workplace toolkits
• Access to support and referral resources
• Public recognition opportunities for participating employers

“Aiken County is showing that a recovery-friendly community includes our workplaces,” said Jenny Teeters, a partner of this initiative. “Through this partnership with The Aiken Chamber, Aiken Center, Aiken County, Side By Side Strategies, and SCORF, employers will have the tools they need to support their employees, normalizing recovery as a path to a more resilient workforce. When employees in recovery are supported at work, everyone wins.”

The collaborative effort includes:

• Aiken County Government and SCORF — funding and grant approval
• Aiken Center — program leadership and grant management
• Side By Side Strategies — program delivery and strategic oversight
• Aiken Chamber of Commerce — employer outreach and community engagement

Organizers say the program aims to position Aiken County among the first recovery-friendly counties in South Carolina while helping employers create healthier workplace cultures and stronger workforce retention strategies.

For more information or to become involved in the Aiken County Resilient Workforce Network, contact Jenny Teeters at jenny@jennyteeters.com.

The Aiken Chamber and a delegation of Aiken small business owners traveled to the South Carolina State House in Columbia April 30 to unite with small businesses from across the Palmetto State for Small Business Day at the State House, an advocacy day organized by the South Carolina Manufacturers and Commerce focused on ensuring local small businesses needs are heard by state leaders.

Launchpad Aiken Welcomes

SC Custom Creations This June

The Aiken Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the next business coming to Launchpad Aiken, the Chamber’s downtown business incubator space created to help local entrepreneurs test, grow, and elevate their businesses in a real retail environment. From June 15-19, SC Custom Creations, owned and operated by Dillon Jowers, will officially move into the space, bringing creativity, innovation, and customized craftsmanship to downtown Aiken.

Launchpad Aiken, created through a partnership with Meta, was created to give small businesses an opportunity to experience brick-and-mortar retail without the pressure and financial burden of a long-term lease. The initiative reflects the Chamber’s continued investment in entrepreneurship by creating accessible opportunities for local businesses to build visibility, connect with customers, and gain valuable real-world experience.

SC Custom Creations specializes in personalized products and custom-made designs tailored for individuals, families, organizations, and businesses. The company offers a wide range of customized items while also incorporating innovative 3D printing services, allowing customers to bring unique ideas and concepts to life through precision-designed creations. From personalized gifts and branded merchandise to custom 3D-printed products, the business blends creativity with technology to deliver products that stand out.

As consumer demand for customized and locally made products continues to grow, SC Custom Creations represents the kind of forward-thinking small business Launchpad Aiken was designed to support. The Chamber believes the space provides entrepreneurs with valuable opportunity to test products, interact directly with customers, and gain firsthand insight into operating in a downtown retail environment.

“Entrepreneurs need opportunities to test ideas, gain exposure, and build confidence,” said Jim Tunison, President/CEO of the Aiken Chamber of Commerce. “Launchpad Aiken was designed to create those opportunities, and SC Custom Creations is exactly the kind of innovative small business we want to support. Dillon has built something creative and we’re excited to help showcase that in downtown Aiken.”

The Chamber recently rebranded the space as Launchpad Aiken to better reflect its mission — serving as a launch point for entrepreneurs ready to grow their businesses and explore what expansion could look like in a downtown retail setting. What began as a pop-up concept has quickly evolved into a broader initiative focused on strengthening Aiken’s small business ecosystem and creating pathways for long-term success.

The week before Father’s Day, visitors to Launchpad Aiken will have the opportunity to explore SC Custom Creations’ custom products, learn more about the company’s 3D printing capabilities, and support a local entrepreneur taking an exciting next step in business growth. As Launchpad Aiken continues rotating in new businesses throughout the year, the Chamber hopes the initiative becomes a catalyst for innovation, visibility, and opportunity across Aiken’s small business community.

Interested in becoming one of the next featured businesses in Launchpad Aiken? Contact Whitney Goodwin at wgoodwin@aikenchamber.net for more information on how to apply.

Mugs & Mentors Returns June 19

Featuring Charlie Hartz

The next Mugs & Mentors session, the Aiken Chamber’s professional development series designed to connect emerging leaders with experienced business and community professionals, will feature Charlie Hartz, owner of Scenthound and current South Carolina Representative, on Thursday, June 19 at 9 a.m. at the Aiken Chamber of Commerce. The session will last approximately one hour and will follow the same conversational format attendees have come to enjoy.

Mugs & Mentors creates a welcoming environment for young and mid-career professionals to ask questions, gain leadership insight, and build meaningful connections with leaders across the community. Whether attendees are just beginning their professional journey or stepping into new leadership roles, the series offers practical advice and valuable networking opportunities.

As both a business owner and public servant, Hartz brings a unique perspective on entrepreneurship, leadership, community engagement, and navigating today’s business climate. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear firsthand about his professional experiences and lessons learned throughout his career.

If you know a young professional on your team—or anyone looking to grow professionally—encourage them to attend. The best leaders never stop learning.

Mugs & Mentors is proudly sponsored by Carolina HVAC & Electrical.

First Friday Means Business:

Featuring William "Bill" Kirkland

Join the Aiken Chamber of Commerce for First Friday Means Business on Friday, June 5, from 7:30–9:00 a.m. at Newberry Hall. This month’s program will feature William “Bill” Kirkland, President and CEO of the South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA), for a discussion on innovation, entrepreneurship, and the future of economic growth in communities like Aiken.

As President and CEO of SCRA, Kirkland leads the organization’s mission to fuel South Carolina’s innovation economy through support for technology-based companies, academic research, and entrepreneurial growth. SCRA works across the state to connect startups, industry leaders, higher education institutions, and government partners in ways that strengthen South Carolina’s competitive position and drive long-term economic development.

During the program, Kirkland will provide a brief history and overview of SCRA and discuss the organization’s Innovation Hubs initiative, which is designed to foster collaboration and accelerate entrepreneurial activity in communities throughout the state. He will also share why Aiken was selected as part of the initiative and the unique opportunities the community offers for innovation-driven growth.

Attendees will gain insight into how small businesses and entrepreneurs can engage with SCRA’s programs and resources, as well as what communities like Aiken can do to cultivate a stronger culture of innovation at both the local and state levels. The discussion will be especially valuable for business leaders, entrepreneurs, elected officials, and community stakeholders interested in shaping the future of economic development in the region.

Registration is required and tickets are $20 per person, which includes breakfast.

Thank you to our June Corporate Sponsor, Family Pharmacy, for their support of First Friday Means Business.

Aiken Corporation

Nonprofit

Founded in 1995 following the City of Aiken’s Strategic Plan, our organization was designed to do more than complete projects—we exist to identify community needs, invest in smart solutions, and reinvest returns into future opportunities.

151 Newberry Street, NW

Aiken, SC 29801

Contact: Megan Pruitt

Phone: (803) 522.4728

https://www.aikencorporation.org

Basco Strategic Enterprises, LLC

Business Support Services/Consulting

We provide business consulting services focused on improving training, compliance, and operational efficiency. Our mission is simple yet profound: to empower businesses with innovative packaging solutions that enhance efficiency, safety, and sustainability.

673 Kensington Court

Aiken, SC 29803        

Contact: Brenda Basco

Phone: (803) 522-9711

CDE Services, LLC

Credit Card/Bank Services

Local merchant services provider helping businesses accept credit cards, debit cards, and EBT payments with reliable equipment.

1006 Valley Road

Aiken, SC 29801



Contact: Nealie Morgan

Phone: (803) 292-0322

https://cdesolutions.com/

CreoTibi

Online Retail

An online gift shop offering personalized and thoughtfully designed products inspired by hobbies, interest, and the things you love. 

1450 Georgia Avenue, #6264

North Augusta, SC 29841

Contact: Kimberly Clifford

Phone: (803) 414-1117

https://creotibi.com/

Cultivating Wellness LLC

Health Services

Ayurveda Health Counseling and Coaching.

179 Goldfinch Lane

Ridge Spring, SC 29129



Contact: Lisa Myers

Phone: (704) 860-1943

http://cultivatingwellnessllc.com

Dental Care at Woodside

Dentists (General Practice)

You deserve a healthy, beautiful smile - the team at Dental Care at Woodside provides personalized care solutions to help you get the smile you've always wanted.

1575 Silver Bluff Road

Aiken, SC 29803



Contact: Crystal Broadwater

Phone: (839) 248-2565

https://dentalcareatwoodside.com/

G1 Land Services

Land Clearing & Fencing

Land clearing, development and fencing business.

277 Hurlingham Drive

Aiken, SC 29801



Contact: Ronnie Garner

Phone: (803) 306-4637

http://g1landservices.com

Good Girl Brewing Co.

Restaurant

Whether you're a craft beer connoisseur or simply looking to unwind with friends, our cozy brewery is the perfect place to savor the good things in life. Join us for a pint, a bite to eat, and a whole lot of good times.

880 Banks Mill Road

Aiken, SC 29801



Contact: Andrew Phifer

Phone: (803) 226-0234

https://goodgirlbrewingco.com/

Gutter Specialty Services

Home Improvement

Gutter guard installation, gutter repairs, and gutter debris removal.

266 Ballard Drive

Trenton, SC 29847



Contact: Jessica Ward

Phone: (803) 257-7950

https://gutterspecialtyservices.com/

Kiewit Nuclear Solutions, Co.

Engineering Nuclear

Integrated construction and engineering solutions that deliver – safely, on time and with certainty.

137 Old Market Street, Suite 101

Aiken, SC 29803



Contact: Jeff Leita

Phone: (803) 226-1627

MOAA-Aiken Chapter

Veteran Service Organization

The MOAA Chapter holds 10 meetings a year featuring guest speakers on topics relevant to the members.

262 Eastgate Drive

Aiken, SC 29803



Contact: Barbara McKnight

Phone: (315) 723-6185

https://www.moaa.org/chapter/aiken/

Bryan Noar, Former CPA

Insurance + Investments

Helping Aiken businesses and families stay financially protected with unique supplemental health coverage.

7132 Sideboard Crossing

Aiken, SC 29803



Phone: (407) 496-2104

Thorough Bread Bakery and Cafe

Bakery

Celebrating the old in the new exceptional artisan fare in a welcoming café inside downtown Aiken’s former Coca-Cola location.

115 Laurens Street, NW

Aiken, SC 29801



Contact: Molly Newman

Phone: (949) 275-2877

https://thoroughbreadaiken.com

United Energy Workers

Health Services

We help energy workers access purposeful, in-home care so you can live better and more independently.

101 Beaverdam Road

Aiken, SC 29805



Contact: Melody Rick

Phone: (803) 508-3389

https://uewhealth.com/

Building Aiken's Future

one ribbon cutting at a time

On April 28, the Aiken Chamber celebrated new ownership of Pelican’s SnoBalls with an official ribbon cutting. Cutting the ribbon is owner Glenn Oldenburg joined by Aiken Chamber President/CEO Jim Tunison. They are accompanied by staff and members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador Team. Pelican’s SnoBalls is a locally loved spot serving up refreshing shaved ice treats with a fun, family-friendly vibe. Known for their wide variety of bold, flavorful syrups, guests can mix and match flavors and add extras like cream or candy toppings to create their perfect treat. Pelican’s SnoBalls is located at 210 East Gate Dr. For more information, visit www.pelicanssnoballs.com. 

On April 30, the Aiken Chamber celebrated a new addition of a bright yellow food truck for The Icee Fusion Experience. Cutting the ribbon are partners Nakieta Rucker, Sonya Wilson, and Wakena Timms. They are joined by friends and members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador Team. The Icee Fusion Experience offers sweet and unique icee treats that are dairy free, gluten free, and free of high fructose corn syrup. Now with their new trailer they’re hard to miss and will be doing frequent pop ups all over town. Follow them on Facebook to see where they’ll be next.

On May 21, the Aiken Chamber celebrated with an official ribbon cutting for the new SRS Lending Library, organized by the Citizens for Nuclear Technology Awareness and the SRS Museum. Cutting the ribbon are Allison Hamilton, Executive Director for CNTA and Linda Lindler, Director of the SRS Museum. They are joined by Aiken Chamber President/CEO Jim Tunison and members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador Team. The SRS Lending Library features a collection of books, documents, videos, and other materials related to the Savannah River Site, creating a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history, science, and impact of SRS in our community. The library is located inside Cafe Scientifique, 203 Laurens St. SW, and is now open for visitors to explore by appointment. For more information, call 803-648-1437.

On May 22, the Aiken Chamber celebrated with an official ribbon cutting, one of Laurens St.'s newest additions, Sweet B's Soft Serve and Sweet Treats. Cutting the ribbon are owners Ken and Roschele Buraszeski accompanied by Aiken Chamber President/CEO Jim Tunison. They are joined by friends and members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador Team. Bringing a fun, colorful energy to downtown Aiken at 137 Laurens St. SW, this locally owned ice cream shop is quickly becoming a favorite gathering spot for families, friends, and anyone with a sweet tooth. From creative ice cream treats to classic soft serve favorites, every visit is filled with flavor, smiles, and a welcoming hometown feel. With its bright atmosphere and community-focused spirit, this shop is a wonderful addition to downtown and another reason to love spending time in Aiken.

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.