An Upstate region where collaboration, coordination, and cooperation across communities and business sectors make us stronger together.
To foster trust and collaboration through partnerships and cooperation that strengthen economic vitality and quality of life across Upstate South Carolina.
The ultimate goal of our work is greater individual and collective capacity across the Upstate, empowering communities and organizations to address challenges and reach the region’s full potential.
Bringing stakeholders together from different communities and sectors, both in person and virtually, to build lasting partnerships and relationships.
Linking diverse stakeholders focused on similar issues while building awareness and connections to vital resources across the region, state, and nation.
Sharing information across the Upstate via social media, e-newsletters, and digital platforms to grow awareness of community resources and opportunities.
Nurturing the creation of collaborative, nontraditional partnerships that strengthen individual organizations, local businesses, and the Upstate region as a whole.
In 2005, more than 300 regional leaders gathered for the landmark conference “Upstate Together: Growing by Choice or Chance?” This pivotal event led to the creation of a 40-leader steering committee dedicated to the region’s future. Partnering with the Urban Land Institute and backed by local businesses and communities, the group hosted the Upstate Reality Check—a regional planning exercise that established a Shared Upstate Growth Vision. To bring this vision to life, the organization officially incorporated as a non-profit in 2009 under the name Ten at the Top.
Since its founding, Ten at the Top has partnered with hundreds of businesses, organizations, and community stakeholders to collaboratively address challenges across the Upstate’s ten counties. This work remains anchored in five core pillars of regional success: nurturing human potential, fueling economic and entrepreneurial vitality, and encouraging sustainable growth. By fostering community vibrancy and serving as dedicated stewards of the region’s natural beauty and resources, Ten at the Top ensures the Upstate grows stronger, together.
