Myrtle Beach, August 16, 2025
Partnership Grand Strand Foundation
The Partnership Grand Strand Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering community development and economic growth along the Grand Strand area. Founded in 2010, the foundation has been a pivotal force in promoting sustainable initiatives, supporting local businesses, and enhancing educational and cultural programs. Over the years, it has collaborated with various community stakeholders to implement projects that improve quality of life and generate opportunities for residents and visitors alike. With a strong commitment to transparency and community engagement, Partnership Grand Strand Foundation continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of the region through innovative programs and strategic partnerships.
News Summary
The Partnership Grand Strand Foundation is enhancing community services and economic development initiatives across the Grand Strand region. Since its establishment, the foundation has raised over $3 million, focusing on diversifying the local economy, supporting businesses, and fostering community engagement through various programs. Key partnerships, including with Coastal Carolina University, are fostering professional development and support for local entrepreneurs.
MYRTLE BEACH, SC – Partnership Grand Strand Foundation Expands Community Services and Economic Development Initiatives
The Partnership Grand Strand Foundation is making strides in advancing economic development and enhancing community services across the Grand Strand region. Formed in 2021, this 501c3 nonprofit organization functions as an extension of the Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce. Under the direction of Peggy Masterson, the foundation’s mission is to accelerate economic prosperity and improve the quality of life for both businesses and residents in the area.
Recognizing the necessity for a robust local workforce and the retention of young talent, local business leaders founded the organization in response to community needs highlighted by a comprehensive study conducted in 2020 by Power 10. Since its inception, the foundation has aimed to diversify the local economy beyond the hospitality sector, offer enhanced support to local businesses, and create revitalization plans for vital areas such as oceanfront and downtown Myrtle Beach.
To solidify its financial foundation, fundraising began in 2021, resulting in over $3 million raised through contributions from more than 80 investors. The organization has committed to a five-year pledge to identify and develop initiatives that will enhance both the economy and quality of life in the region. Notably, the Partnership Grand Strand Foundation provides support to businesses regardless of their chamber membership status, aiming to foster collaboration among various stakeholders.
Foundation Objectives and Community Engagement
The foundation’s strategic objectives are guided by four key pillars: talent, prosperity, place, and policy support. It is committed to building strategic relationships that involve economic development, private sector businesses, education, and workforce entities. To facilitate networking among professionals, the organization hosts quarterly events known as “big mixers,” where business leaders can connect and collaborate.
In addition to networking opportunities, the foundation offers educational and mentorship programs designed to boost community engagement and professional development. One critical partnership has been established with Coastal Carolina University, through which the Wall College of Business and the CoBE Institute provide free consulting services to small businesses. The consulting is supervised by university professors, ensuring expert guidance for local entrepreneurs.
Community Advisory and Involvement
The Partnership Grand Strand Foundation encourages community involvement through various avenues. This includes a Community Advisory Committee, contributions for investments, Town Hall Meetings, and a podcast titled “Thrivin’ at the Beach.” The foundation strategically collaborates with numerous organizations, including the Myrtle Beach Economic Development Corporation, Horry County Schools, and Tidelands Health, among others, to coordinate community services and bolster local initiatives.
With a commitment to improving the local economy and enhancing the community’s overall quality of life, the Partnership Grand Strand Foundation seeks to be a go-to resource for business owners and community members alike. For those interested in learning more about engagement opportunities or accessing support services, the foundation encourages visits to their website and social media channels.
Contact Information
For further details, community members are invited to visit www.partnershipgrandstrand.com for more information on programs, events, and ways to get involved.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Partnership Grand Strand Foundation?
The Partnership Grand Strand Foundation is a 501c3 nonprofit organization formed as an extension of the Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce to enhance economic prosperity and quality of life in the Grand Strand region.
What are the primary goals of the foundation?
The foundation aims to enhance support for local businesses, diversify the economy beyond hospitality, and develop revitalization plans for areas like oceanfront and downtown Myrtle Beach.
How is the foundation funded?
The foundation raised over $3 million through contributions from over 80 investors as part of a five-year pledge commitment initiated in 2021.
Can businesses receive support without being a member of the chamber?
Yes, the Partnership Grand Strand Foundation provides support to businesses regardless of their membership with the chamber.
Key Features of Partnership Grand Strand Foundation
| Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Formed | 2021 |
| Director | Peggy Masterson |
| Funding Raised | $3 million (from 80+ investors) |
| Key Pillars | Talent, Prosperity, Place, Policy Support |
| Community Engagement | Big mixers, Town Hall meetings |
| Partnerships | Coastal Carolina University, Myrtle Beach Economic Development Corporation, Horry County Schools, and others |
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Additional Resources
- Myrtle Beach Online: College Sports News
- Minor League Baseball: Pelicans Partnership
- Minor League Baseball: Pelicans and WMBF Partnership
- Post and Courier: Home Improvement Star Arrest
- CJ Online: CEO Leaving for S.C. Post
- Wikipedia: Myrtle Beach
- Google Search: Myrtle Beach
- Google Scholar: Myrtle Beach Partnership
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Myrtle Beach
- Google News: Myrtle Beach Partnership
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
