In a vibrant gathering at the James Island Town Council meeting on July 17, 2025, local entrepreneurs shared inspiring stories of growth and community support, highlighting the significant impact of the Lowcountry Local First initiative. Tana Dukes, owner of the Ranch Dressing Company, recounted her journey from a small vendor to a thriving business owner, crediting a business class she attended three years ago as a pivotal moment. “It put some structure around my business,” Dukes explained, emphasizing the importance of community-oriented programs that foster local entrepreneurship.

Dukes' success story was echoed by Julia Drayton Crumlin, who spoke passionately about her experience in the Community Business Academy. Crumlin, a recent graduate, shared how the program helped her develop a practical business plan for her childcare center, which she presented to the council just a month prior. “Programs like this empower local entrepreneurs,” she stated, urging the council to support the proposed business planning class on James Island. “In return, our community gains a stronger network, and it keeps everything coming to the local economy.”

The council members engaged in a thoughtful discussion about the potential for funding this new class, which aims to provide essential resources for aspiring business owners. Questions arose regarding the recruitment process and the financial commitment involved, with assurances that the program would prioritize local residents. The council expressed a keen interest in supporting initiatives that bolster the local economy and provide valuable opportunities for residents.

As the meeting progressed, the atmosphere was charged with optimism and a shared vision for a thriving James Island community. The stories of Dukes and Crumlin served as a reminder of the power of local support and the importance of investing in the future of small businesses. With the council's consideration of the proposed business class, the hope is that more residents will have the chance to turn their entrepreneurial dreams into reality, further enriching the fabric of this close-knit community.