April 30, 2026

Investing in Small Business Success

Small Business Week in Aiken is more than a celebration—it’s a focused effort to provide real value to entrepreneurs at every stage. Through a series of events, the Chamber is creating opportunities for small business owners to gain practical skills, connect with peers, and access resources that directly support their growth.

“Small Business Week is about more than recognition—it’s about making sure our local business community has access to the tools, connections, and opportunities they need to succeed.”

Equipping Businesses for the Future

Practical AI Workshop for Small Businesses

May 5 | 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM

As technology continues to reshape how businesses operate, small businesses must stay competitive in an increasingly fast-moving environment.

This hands-on workshop will focus on practical, real-world applications of artificial intelligence—cutting through the noise to highlight what’s actually useful for small business owners.

Participants will learn how AI can:

• Save time on everyday tasks like emails, job postings, and customer communication
• Support smarter decision-making and business planning
• Improve marketing and customer engagement without increasing overhead

The workshop, presented by Wheels Up Collective Marketing Co-Founder Amy Winner, is designed to be approachable and actionable, emphasizing that AI isn’t about becoming a tech expert—it’s about working more efficiently and making better-informed decisions.

As highlighted in the session materials, “the businesses that win in the next five years will be the ones who use [AI] intentionally.”

“We want to make sure our small businesses have access to tools that help them compete and grow,” said Whitney Goodwin, Director of Communications at the Aiken Chamber. “This workshop is about making innovation practical and accessible.” Register here.

Fueling the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs

Pitches & Pitchers

May 5 (Cinco de Mayo) | 5:00 – 7:30 PM | The Alley

Join us for Pitches & Pitchers—a high-energy Cinco de Mayo event where bold ideas meet bold margaritas. Whether you’re ready to pitch or simply want to connect, this event offers a unique opportunity to engage with Aiken’s growing entrepreneurial community.

The evening will feature live pitches from local entrepreneurs competing for $5,000 in prize funding, along with the opportunity to participate in the Venture Lab Aiken summer cohort—a virtual startup incubator providing mentorship, training, and practical tools to help turn ideas into thriving businesses.

Attendees will also get a first look at the Venture Lab Aiken program while networking with innovators, business leaders, and future founders in a dynamic, community-driven setting.

To attend, email Kathy Boyette at kboyette@aikenchamber.net.

To apply to pitch, visit: https://www.makestartups.org/venture-lab

Connecting with Chamber Leadership

Lunch with the President

May 7 | 12:00 PM | Dos Potrillos Mexican Restaurant

Small businesses don’t just need resources—they need access.

Lunch with the President offers Chamber members a more personal opportunity to connect directly with Jim Tunison, President & CEO of the Aiken Chamber of Commerce, in a small-group setting designed for meaningful conversation.

This event creates space for open dialogue, giving members the chance to discuss their business, share insights, and talk through upcoming opportunities or challenges in a more one-on-one environment.

The event is free to Chamber members, but registration is required as space is limited. Email Kathy at kboyette@aikenchamber.net to request to attend.

Connecting the Business Community

Chamber Night at SRP Park

Friday, May 8, 2026 | Gates Open at 6:00 PM | First Pitch at 7:05 PM

Small business success doesn’t happen in isolation—it’s built through relationships.

Chamber members and their families are invited to Chamber Night at SRP Park as the Augusta GreenJackets take on the Charleston RiverDogs. This family-friendly evening offers a relaxed setting to connect with fellow business leaders while enjoying America’s pastime.

Tickets include access to the Right Field E-Z-GO Picnic Patio, featuring a catered picnic from 6:30–8:00 p.m. with burgers, hot dogs, pulled pork, sides, dessert, and drinks. Tickets are $37.15 per person and must be purchased by game time on May 8. To register to attend, visit the event page here.

Why This Matters for Aiken

Aiken’s economic strength depends on a diverse business economy which includes the success of its small businesses. These businesses add to Aiken’s vibrant community – creating local jobs, keep dollars circulating within the community, provide essential goods and services, and drive innovation at the local level. Supporting them requires more than recognition—it requires intentional action. Small Business Week is one way the Chamber is working to ensure that small businesses in Aiken have the support they need not just to start, but to grow and thrive.

Introducing the Meta Business Suite:

A New Launchpad for Small Businesses in Aiken

Aiken’s small businesses now have a new place to grow, test, and take their next step. The Aiken Chamber of Commerce is proud to introduce the Meta Business Suite, a newly established space inside the Chamber building designed to support small businesses as they explore brick-and-mortar opportunities in a real downtown setting. This initiative reflects a clear priority: creating tangible, accessible opportunities for small businesses to succeed.

A New Path to Brick-and-Mortar

For many entrepreneurs, moving from an idea or home-based business into a physical storefront is one of the biggest and most challenging steps they will take. It requires investment, confidence, and a level of certainty that can be difficult to achieve without first testing the market. Too often, small business owners are forced to commit to long-term leases without fully knowing how their products will perform in a retail environment. The Meta Business Suite is designed to remove that barrier.

By transforming space within the Chamber into a pop-up retail environment, small businesses now have the opportunity to:

• Test their products in a downtown location
• Engage directly with customers
• Build brand awareness and visibility
• Gather real-time feedback before scaling

“We’ve heard from our small business community, and we understand that taking the next step can feel like a big risk,” said Jim Tunison, President/CEO of the Aiken Chamber. “This initiative is about lowering that barrier and creating a space where businesses can test, learn, and grow with confidence.”

Kicking Off with Fox & The Bee Farm

The first business to activate the Meta Business Suite is Fox & The Bee Farm, May 4 through May 8, bringing its locally crafted products into the Chamber through a pop-up retail experience. Fox & The Bee Farm is known for its thoughtfully made, small-batch goods rooted in natural and sustainable practices. Their offerings include items such as soy candles, beeswax-based products like lotions and room sprays, fresh baked desserts and breads, and other farm-inspired goods that reflect a commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and local agriculture. Having already established a customer base at the Aiken Farmers Market, they are entertaining the idea of a brick-and-mortar location. This opportunity gives them the chance to sell their product at a fixed location without all the strings attached. “We’re incredibly grateful to partner with the Chamber on this pop-up shop. It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with the community, share what we’ve been building, and explore what a permanent storefront could look like in downtown,” said Dan Goodwin, co-owner of Fox & The Bee Farm.

This pop-up is more than a single event; it’s proof of concept. It demonstrates what’s possible when small businesses are given access to space, visibility, and community support in a strategic way. It also provides valuable insight into customer demand, product performance, and overall readiness for expansion. By starting with short-term, real-world experiences, entrepreneurs can make more informed decisions about their next steps, reducing risk while increasing their potential for long-term success.

A Broader Commitment to Small Businesses

The Meta Business Suite represents more than a single initiative—it signals a broader commitment to ensuring small businesses in Aiken have real opportunities to grow.

"Small businesses are the lifeblood of Aiken's economy and supporting them where they are is one of the most meaningful ways Meta can give back as a community partner. By turning an unused room at the Aiken Chamber into a pop-up space for local entrepreneurs, we're lowering the barrier for someone with a great idea to test it, get real customer feedback and grow - without the cost or commitment of a long-term storefront. Meta is proud to invest in projects that strengthen Aiken's small business ecosystem and create lasting opportunity for the people who call this community home," said Laura Warren, Meta Community Development Regional Manager.

The Chamber plans to use this space as a rotating launchpad for additional small businesses, creating ongoing opportunities for entrepreneurs to test their concepts, gain exposure, and build confidence before committing to a permanent location. For small business owners considering their next step, this is an open door. Contact Whitney Goodwin at wgoodwin@aikenchamber.net to apply to be one of the next vendors. 

Dianne Phillips Named 2026 Women of Excellence Leadership Award Honoree

Aiken Chamber of Commerce Vice President of Administration Dianne Phillips has been named a 2026 Women of Excellence Leadership Award Honoree by The Roll Foundation, receiving the Community Operational Leadership Award. The recognition highlights women whose leadership strengthens their industries and communities, with this year’s focus on professionals within Chambers of Commerce who play a vital role in supporting business growth and economic vitality.

Phillips was selected for her exceptional operational leadership and the measurable impact she has made within the Aiken Chamber. For 30 years, her strategic oversight, attention to detail, and commitment to excellence have significantly enhanced member services and strengthened the organization’s ability to deliver meaningful programs, advocacy, and support to the business community. Often serving as the operational backbone of the Chamber, Phillips ensures that initiatives are executed effectively and that members receive consistent, high-value engagement.

Her work has contributed directly to the Chamber’s continued growth and success. Most notably, she has been the driving force behind Aiken’s Makin’, the Chamber’s annual two-day arts and crafts show. Now in its 50th year, the event continues to make a significant impact, generating an estimated $2 million annually for the local economy. By maintaining strong internal systems and elevating service standards, Phillips enables the organization to better serve businesses and foster a resilient local economy.

The award was presented during the She’s On A Roll Women’s History Month Luncheon on March 27, 2026, at The HUB Innovation Center by Mary Allen, Executive Director of The Roll Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization focused on expanding opportunity and access.

Phillips’ recognition reflects not only her professional excellence but also the critical, often behind-the-scenes leadership required to sustain and advance a thriving business community.

Behind the Badge:

Why Every Aiken Citizen Should Experience the Public Safety Citizens Academy

Submitted by Whitney Goodwin

Before going through the Citizens Academy, I believed I had a solid understanding of what public safety looked like in Aiken. Like many residents, I saw the presence, the professionalism, and the responsiveness. But after graduating from the Aiken Department of Public Safety’s Citizen’s Academy, I realized just how much more there is behind the badge and why every citizen should consider stepping into this program.

The Citizen’s Academy, led by Recruitment Coordinator Karl Odenthal, is a nine-week immersive experience designed to provide residents with a comprehensive, behind-the-scenes look at the Aiken Department of Public Safety. Meeting once a week, participants engage directly with department leadership and officers, gaining firsthand insight into the complexity, responsibility, and discipline required to serve and protect our community.

Over the course of the program, participants are introduced to a wide range of topics that define modern public safety. From the history and evolution of the department to the rigorous hiring and training process for officers, each session builds a deeper understanding of the profession. We explored criminal investigations and how cases are developed, examined the realities of firearms training and use-of-force decision-making, and learned about less-lethal options designed to de-escalate situations whenever possible. We also had the opportunity to see specialized units in action, including the K-9 division, which plays a critical role in both enforcement and community engagement, as well as the department’s drone program, which supports investigators in analyzing collision scenes.

What makes this program exceptional is not just the breadth of information, but its transparency. These are not surface-level presentations. They are candid, detailed conversations that provide real context to the decisions officers must make every day, often under pressure and in rapidly evolving situations. One of the first classes included a tour of the newly built headquarters, where we navigated a maze of hallways and operational spaces designed to support every facet of public safety.

The part of the experience that left the strongest impression on me was learning about the Citizens Review Board. This is where community members sit down with officers to review real cases, thoughtfully examining whether situations were handled appropriately and in accordance with policy. It is a powerful example of accountability in action. More importantly, it reflects something deeper; an intentional partnership between the department and the people of Aiken, grounded in trust, openness, and a shared commitment to doing what is right.

For me, another impactful part of the experience was the shift in perspective. Seeing the level of preparation, accountability, and judgment required of public safety professionals reshaped how I view their work. It reinforced the reality that behind every call, every interaction, and every decision is a highly trained individual balancing safety, law, and humanity in real time.

Programs like the Citizens Academy are more than educational. They are foundational to building trust. When residents understand the “why” behind policies, procedures, and responses, it creates space for more informed conversations and stronger community relationships. In a growing community like Aiken, where quality of life and public safety are closely tied, that understanding is invaluable.

From a broader perspective, this type of engagement aligns directly with the kind of community we are working to build. A community that is informed, connected, and collaborative. Strong relationships between citizens and public safety professionals are not accidental; they are developed through opportunities like this.

The Citizens Academy is not just informative, it is transformative. It equips participants with knowledge they didn’t have, perspectives they hadn’t considered, and a deeper appreciation for the individuals who serve our community every day. I strongly encourage any resident or business leader in Aiken to consider applying for the next program early next year. The time commitment is small compared to the lasting impact. Whether you are new to the community or have lived here your entire life, this program offers something valuable: understanding. Because at its core, the Citizens Academy doesn’t just teach you about public safety, it connects you to it. And in a community like Aiken, that connection matters.

Members of the 2026 Aiken Public Safety Citizens Academy graduating class.

Aiken Named State Innovation Hub by SCRA

Designation strengthens region’s role in South Carolina’s tech economy

Aiken has reached an exciting new milestone in its economic evolution.

The South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) has officially designated Aiken as an Innovation Hub, recognizing the region’s growing strength in technology, research, and entrepreneurship. The designation is part of a broader statewide strategy to accelerate innovation and ensure communities across South Carolina benefit from a more connected, tech-driven economy.

This “Hub” initiative builds on SCRA’s long-standing mission to accelerate applied research, innovation, and entrepreneurship throughout the state. By focusing resources across key markets, SCRA is helping create a vibrant, interconnected ecosystem, and Aiken is now firmly part of that vision.

For the Aiken Chamber and its partners, this recognition validates the intentional work already underway through the AI Corridor (Aiken’s Innovation Corridor), the No Boundaries Pitch Contest and Venture Lab Aiken. Together, these efforts are aligning Aiken’s world-class assets and talent into a unified strategy for long-term growth.

“This is a meaningful vote of confidence in the work we’ve already begun and the vision we’re building toward,” said Jim Tunison, President & CEO of the Aiken Chamber of Commerce. “Aiken has all the right ingredients, and we’re focused on turning that into real opportunity, making this one of the best places to start and grow a business.”

At its core, the Innovation Hub designation creates new opportunities. It strengthens pathways for startups, expands the commercialization of cutting-edge research, and enhances Aiken’s ability to attract investment and talent. Just as importantly, it reinforces the community’s commitment to building a place where people want to live, work, and innovate.

With a focus on high-growth sectors like nuclear technology, advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, Aiken is positioning itself at the forefront of industries critical to both the state and national economy. These efforts are part of a broader vision to elevate Aiken as a nationally recognized center for innovation in the years ahead.

“This initiative is a strong addition to the foundation we’ve been building across Aiken County and the Western South Carolina region,” said Will Williams, President and CEO of the Western SC Economic Development Partnership. “Efforts like this that support innovation and early-stage companies are critical to maintaining a competitive business environment. By expanding access to resources, capital, and mentorship, we’re not only supporting entrepreneurs—we’re positioning Aiken for continued investment, job creation, and long-term economic growth.”

While the designation itself is significant, it also marks the beginning of the next phase—one focused on deepening partnerships, expanding resources for entrepreneurs, and continuing to build the infrastructure needed to support a thriving innovation ecosystem.

Fueling Growth: Aiken Corporation’s Loan Program Supports Local Investment

Written by Megan Pruitt, Executive Director, Aiken Corporation

The Aiken Corporation continues to expand its impact through a strategic loan program designed to support thoughtful development and strengthen Aiken’s economic future—beginning with a focused investment in the redevelopment of Kershaw Street.

Built on nearly three decades of experience, the program reflects Aiken Corporation’s core mission: identify community needs, invest in smart solutions, and reinvest returns into future opportunities.

The loan program is structured to provide a clear, phased pathway for developers, entrepreneurs, and investors seeking to bring projects to life within the City of Aiken. By emphasizing early coordination, financial readiness, and alignment with community priorities, the program ensures that projects are positioned for long-term success—not just initial funding.

"The strength of Aiken’s future depends on our willingness to invest with intention today," said Arthur “Buzz” Rich, Chairman of Aiken Corporation. "This loan program allows us to partner with developers and business leaders in a way that not only supports individual projects, but also advances the long-term vitality of our community."

More than a financing tool, the program serves as a partnership model. Aiken Corporation works alongside applicants, connecting them with resources, guiding them through the process, and helping align projects with the broader vision for Aiken’s growth. This collaborative approach reflects the organization’s role as a connector between public and private stakeholders, fostering investment that enhances quality of place and economic vitality.

"Our goal is to be more than a funding source—we aim to be a strategic partner throughout the process," said Megan Pruitt, Executive Director of Aiken Corporation. "By guiding projects from concept to execution, we’re helping ensure that every investment contributes meaningfully to Aiken’s growth and momentum."

Through initiatives like this—starting with Kershaw Street—Aiken Corporation continues to demonstrate a proven model that reinvests in the community, supporting jobs, encouraging development, and driving sustainable growth across the region. For more information about the loan program, visit www.aikencorporation.org/loan-program.

Aiken’s Makin’ Unveils 50th Anniversary Commemorative Ornament

Aiken’s Makin’, one of the region’s most beloved arts and crafts festivals, is marking a major milestone this year with the release of a limited-edition 50th Anniversary commemorative ornament.

Designed to capture the charm and tradition of the festival, the ornament features a vibrant depiction of Aiken’s Makin’ under the iconic oak canopy—celebrating five decades of artistry, community, and local pride.

Pre-orders for the ornament are now open and will run through the end of May. Each ornament is priced at $30, with proceeds supporting the continued success of Aiken’s Makin’ and the programs of the Aiken Chamber of Commerce. Buyers may choose to pick up their ornaments at the Aiken Chamber of Commerce or have them shipped. Shipping costs are $8 for a single ornament and $12 for multiple ornaments.

A limited number of ornaments will also be available for purchase during Aiken’s Makin’, taking place September 11 and 12. However, quantities are limited and availability is not guaranteed—once they are sold out, they will not be restocked.

“This ornament is more than just a keepsake—it’s a celebration of 50 years of creativity and community,” said Aiken Chamber’s long time event organizer Dianne Phillips. “We’re thrilled to offer something so special for those who love Aiken’s Makin’ as much as we do.”

Community members and collectors are encouraged to secure their ornaments early to ensure availability. For more information or to place a pre-order, email dphillips@aikenchamber.net

First Friday Means Business:

Featuring Patrick Hunter

Join the Aiken Chamber of Commerce for First Friday Means Business on Friday, May 1, from 7:30–9:00 a.m. at Newberry Hall. This month’s program will feature Patrick Hunter, Executive Vice President of Commercial at AGY, for an insightful discussion on advanced manufacturing and its critical role in supporting the rapid growth of artificial intelligence infrastructure worldwide.

Patrick Hunter serves as Executive Vice President of Commercial for AGY, a global leader in specialty glass fiber manufacturing. In his role, he oversees commercial strategy and market development, helping position AGY as a key supplier in high-performance materials used across a variety of industries. As demand for AI technologies accelerates, AGY’s products are playing an increasingly important role in the infrastructure that powers these innovations.

During the program, Hunter will provide a behind-the-scenes look at how AGY’s specialty glass fiber materials are being used in a significant share of global AI applications. He will also share insights into the evolving landscape of AI-related production, supply chains, and what this growth could mean for the future of domestic manufacturing.

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

Thank you to our May Corporate Sponsor, Aiken Regional Medical Centers, for their support of First Friday Means Business.

Apex Home Repair Corporation

Home Improvement + Maintenance

Local general contractor that primarily focuses on roofing, siding, and exterior home repairs/renovations.

1300 Toolebeck Road

Aiken, SC 29803       

Contact: Aaron Lott

Phone: (803) 646-3998

www.repairwithapex.com

The Backyard

Restaurant

Neighborhood restaurant/lounge featuring an outdoor gathering space under downtown Aiken’s historic oaks.

705 Richland Avenue, E

Aiken, SC 29801

Contact: Katie Cannon

Phone: (803) 220-4379

https://www.thebackyardaiken.com

Covey Homes Midsomer

Rentals + Property Management

Home is more than a place, it’s a chance to gather, connect, and feel like you belong. At Midsomer in Graniteville, SC, we’re dedicated to creating warm, welcoming spaces that bring people together, indoors and out.

507 Satinwood Circle

Graniteville, SC 29829



Contact: Toni Smith

Phone: (912) 414-4981

http://www.coveyhomesmidsomer.com

The Parker Aiken

Apartment Community

Where the grace of equestrian heritage meets modern luxury. Nestled in the heart of Aiken, SC – a town renowned for its vibrant horse country – our brand-new apartment community invites you to experience a lifestyle unlike any other.

8076 Pamlico Avenue, NW

Aiken, SC 29801



Contact: Jennifer Salvato

Phone: (803) 615-2416

http://www.theparkeraiken.com

The Scientific Equipment & Furniture Association

Appliances + Furniture

SEFA works within its committees, both in person and virtually, to develop "laboratory grade" standards for all furniture and equipment specified for the lab environment.

1320 Main Street, Suite 300

Columbia, SC 29201



Contact: David Sutton

Phone: (516) 984-8798

www.sefalabs.com

Pelican's SnoBalls Aiken

Ice Cream

Looking for the softest, fluffiest shaved ice in town? You’ve found it! With over 100 amazing flavors, we’re serving up smiles one SnoBall at a time.

210 East Gate Drive

Aiken, SC 29803



Contact: Glenn Oldenbur

Phone: (803) 716-8599

Supportive Home Care Services

Home Health Care

Where we keep your loved one safe and thriving at home with our professional care options.

Aiken, SC 29803



Contact: Hannah Williams

Phone: (803) 761-7025

http://www.supportivehomecareservice.com

Building Aiken's Future

one ribbon cutting at a time

On April 10, the Aiken Chamber celebrated the grand opening of Hair of the Dog with an official ribbon cutting. Cutting the ribbon is owner Isabel Igoe alongside Aiken Chamber Immediate Past Chair Molly Jones. They are joined by friends and members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador team. Hair of the Dog Pet Salon & Spa is a pet grooming salon dedicated to helping dogs look and feel their best through professional, personalized care. Serving pets of all breeds and sizes, the salon offers a range of grooming services in a calm, spa-like environment, with experienced groomers focused on both comfort and quality results. In addition to grooming, they also carry a selection of pet supplies and accessories. Hair of the Dog is located at 225 Richland Ave E. For more information on services, call 803-998-7285 or visit https://hair-of-the-dog-101741.square.site/.

On April 15, the Aiken Chamber celebrated the grand opening of Sport Clips Haircuts with an official ribbon cutting. Cutting the ribbon is owner Bill Voegtle joined by Aiken Chamber President/CEO Jim Tunison. They are accompanied by staff and members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador Team. Sport Clips Haircuts is a men’s and boys’ hair care salon specializing in professional haircuts, beard trims, and grooming services in a sports-themed environment. Their trained stylists focus specifically on male hair, offering everything from classic cuts to modern styles, along with walk-in convenience and no appointment needed. The experience goes beyond a basic haircut, featuring amenities like massaging shampoos, hot steamed towel treatments, and neck and shoulder services designed to create a relaxing, high-quality grooming experience. Plus, TVs playing sports throughout the shop to keep clients entertained while they relax. Sport Clips is located at 2932 Whiskey Rd. For more information, call 803-220-1624.

On April 21, the Aiken Chamber celebrated the grand opening of Aiken's newest Take 5 Oil Change with an official ribbon cutting. Cutting the ribbon is shop manager Scott Carver joined by Aiken Chamber President/CEO Jim Tunison. They are accompanied by staff and members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador Team. Take 5 Oil Change, located at 306 Hitchcock Parkway, is a fast, drive-thru automotive maintenance provider that specializes in quick and convenient oil change services without requiring customers to leave their vehicles. In addition to conventional, high-mileage, and full-synthetic oil changes, the company offers a range of preventative maintenance services such as air and cabin filter replacements, coolant exchanges, windshield wiper blade replacement, and fluid top-offs. Their technicians also perform basic checks like tire pressure and fluid levels to help keep vehicles running safely and efficiently. Known for its “stay-in-your-car” model and typically completing services in about 10 minutes, Take 5 focuses on delivering a fast, hassle-free experience with no appointment necessary. For more information, visit www.take5.com. 

On April 24, the Aiken Chamber celebrated the grand opening of Vintage Bobbin with an official ribbon cutting. The Vintage Bobbin is located at 754 Silver Bluff Rd and is a specialty retail shop focused on sewing, quilting, and fabric arts, offering a curated selection of materials and supplies for both hobbyists and experienced makers. Their services include providing high-quality fabrics, sewing notions, batting, patterns, kits, and accessories, along with pre-cut materials that make projects more convenient and accessible. Customers can shop online or in-store, making it a go-to destination in Aiken for those looking to create, customize, or complete textile and sewing projects with unique and thoughtfully selected products. They also offer classes and workshops, giving customers the opportunity to learn new techniques, build skills, and connect with a community of fellow makers. For more information, visit https://www.vintagebobbin.com/.

On April 24, the Aiken Chamber celebrated the new location for Antares with an official ribbon cutting. Cutting the ribbon is Tom Mancinelli alongside Aiken Chamber President/CEO Jim Tunison. They are joined by Representative Charlie Hartz, Brad Reardon (Antares), Matt Griffin (Antares), Teddy Milner (Aiken Mayor), Lessie Price (Aiken City Council), Congressman Joe Wilson, Gary Bunker (Aiken County Council Chairman). Antares Industries is a U.S.-based nuclear energy technology company that designs and manufactures compact, transportable microreactors to deliver reliable power in remote and mission-critical environments. Founded in 2023, the company focuses on providing scalable, long-duration energy solutions for applications such as defense installations, industrial sites, and future space and underwater missions. The new location is at 106 Park Ave. SW. For more information, visit https://antaresindustries.com/.

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.