Palmetto Artisan Program expands business opportunity for youth

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) – The city of Charleston is partnering with a consulting firm to expand a program designed to tap into the creativity of Charleston’s youth while still teaching them business skills for their future.

The city is working with Community Solutions Consultant LLC to broaden the youth Palmetto Artisan Program beyond Palmetto Roses.

The program provides a year-round opportunity for youths age 9 to 16 to experience running their own businesses. The program also provides mentorship.

This summer, organizers are excited to implement new products allowing participants to expand their creativity and make a profit.

Zihaire Jackson created his own business, the Palmetto Artisan Company, as a participant in the program.

“We focus on making the roses, but I’m going to be having stuff like these shirts with this logos. I’m going to have hoodies, everything,” Jackson said.

Community Solutions Consultant Co-Manager Eric Jackson says they help develop business skills.

“We teach them how to manage the money. We also involve the parents; you know just doing some economic development with the money they make also,” Jackson said.

He says the goal is to provide each participant with their own LLC.

So far, the program has 25 participants.

Participants set up shop almost every weekend on Concord and Calhoun Streets across from the South Carolina Aquarium from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. They also have a booth at the Charleston City Market.

Organizers say it’s important to note vending is needed and they encourage rose peddlers to join the year-round program.

Youth who are interested in joining the program can fill out this form to apply.

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