By Lauren Ratcliffe
lratcliffe@scbiznews.com
Published June 19, 2012

Two technology-based companies opened operations in downtown Charleston, expanding the industry in the Lowcountry.

Complete EDI Solutions, a software and services provider, launched operations on King Street downtown. The company provides Electronic Data Interchange, the computer-to-computer exchange of basic business documents between companies.

Complete EDI Solutions aims to improve the way businesses share documents and has identified 80,000 customers who need upgrades to their current solutions.

Bobby Jones, president and CEO of Complete EDI Solutions, said Charleston’s livability and ability to attract talent were reasons he chose to locate operations here.

“We are excited that CES has selected Charleston to locate their office and confident that our Digital Corridor will be able to facilitate their ongoing business needs,” Mayor Joseph Riley said.

Another tech company is returning to the Charleston market. Broad Street Interactive is re-opening its Charleston office after a stint in Austin, Texas.

The digital media agency had been active in the Charleston market through 2009, when it relocated to Austin to focus on that market.

“My heart has always been in Charleston, and I’m excited for an opportunity to return to the city I love,” said Charlie Ray, CEO of Broad Street Interactive.

The company is the newest member of the Charleston Digital Corridor and will use that membership to establish temporary to permanent office space.

Broad Street Interactive is hoping to use the tourism industry in Charleston as a launching point for growth.

“As Charleston sees a resurgence in tourism and rebound from the economy, business owners are eager to reach customers online,” Ray said. “As a strategic digital agency, we are excited to be back in the Charleston market and about the partnerships we are lining up.”