tl;dr: Chucktown Startups is a grassroots community building bridges across Charleston’s entrepreneurial landscape. Founded by seasoned tech exec turned financial advisor Toby Palmer, the platform welcomes founders at every stage—from side hustlers to IPO hopefuls. With a mission rooted in generosity, inclusion, and founder-first values, Chucktown Startups is quickly becoming a go-to hub for connection, inspiration, and startup support in the Lowcountry.
Toby Palmer of Palmer Financial Wellness & Chucktown Startups
After three decades in tech—including leading global engineering teams and launching startups in the ‘90s—Toby Palmer knows a thing or two about building. When a layoff and a move to Charleston coincided, he saw an opportunity not just to reinvent his career, but to reignite the startup scene around him.
In March 2025, Toby launched Chucktown Startups, a passion-fueled community built to support Charleston founders on both their business and financial journeys.
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The Problem: Founders Need Community—and Each Other
Charleston’s startup ecosystem is thriving, but often siloed. Many founders—especially solopreneurs and service providers—crave connection, mentorship, and local resources that meet them where they are.
Add to that the personal financial complexities that come with entrepreneurship, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or underserved.
The Solution: A Grassroots Hub for Entrepreneurs
Chucktown Startups is more than a meetup. It’s a free, inclusive community where any founder can plug in, connect, and learn—from early-stage hustlers to high-growth ventures. Backed by Toby’s financial advisory firm Palmer Financial Wellness, the group also brings a rare blend of startup savvy and financial guidance under one roof.
And with a growing LinkedIn following, 150 members in just 10 weeks, and support from over a dozen investors, the movement is clearly resonating.
The Story: From Executive to Connector
Toby’s approach is rooted in a simple idea: lead with value.
“When meeting a potential client or customer for the first time, the only transaction that should take place is one where you give them something of value.”
Chucktown Startups embodies that mindset. It’s a no-pitch zone where founders give first, share freely, and build lasting relationships that go beyond business cards.
What’s Next: Growth, Sponsorships, and Local Impact
Toby is just getting started. In the months ahead, Chucktown Startups plans to:
Launch sponsorship opportunities for member companies and partners
Continue growing membership and programming
Keep lifting up Charleston-based founders who are building something special
Why Chucktown Startups Matters
In a world of flashy tech hubs and expensive founder communities, Chucktown Startups is refreshingly real. It’s proof that authentic, locally-rooted entrepreneurship still matters—and that Charleston is a city worth building in.
Key Stats at a Glance
📈 150+ community members in under 3 months
🌱 850 LinkedIn followers in 10 weeks
🤝 15+ investor groups already offering support
🌐 100% grassroots and founder-led
Connect with Chucktown Startups
📬 Website: ChucktownStartups.com
🔗 LinkedIn: Chucktown Startups
👤 Founder: Toby Palmer
📊 Advisory Firm: PalmerFinancialWellness.com
If you’re a founder in the Lowcountry looking for connection, clarity, or just a place to belong—Chucktown Startups might be your next best community.
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