Charleston was founded in 1670, when English and French Huguenot settlers came to the area and built indigo, rice and cotton plantations along the areas rivers and on its sea islands. Merchants made Charleston one of the busiest ports on the Atlantic, and today major ocean carriers cite the Port of Charleston as the most efficient in the world. Culturally vibrant, Charleston nurtures theater, dance, music, and visual arts, showcased each spring during the internationally acclaimed Spoleto Festival.
Charleston, is strategically located on the Atlantic coast about half way between New York and Miami. The region, which covers nearly 3,200 square miles and has a population of more than 570,000, combines a thriving economy, rich history and breathtaking environment to offer an outstanding business climate and a quality of life that is second to none.
The region is fast becoming a recognized hotspot for new business investment, while also offering the natural coastal beauty, world-class culture and historic charm that has made the area such a popular tourist destination.