Restructuring aims to amplify efforts to better serve the region  

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. —The Greater Myrtle Beach Collaborative has officially launched as the new enterprise identity established to enhance the efforts of the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce (MBACC) and Visit Myrtle Beach, along with Partnership Grand Strand, Collaborate2031, Leadership Grand Strand, Grand Strand Young Professionals and additional initiatives. Through “The Collaborative,” these organizations will serve under a single regional platform dedicated to driving economic prosperity and improving quality of life throughout the greater Myrtle Beach area.  

Business leaders, elected officials and community partners came together on April 16 during the organization’s 2026 Annual Meeting at Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes to learn more about The Collaborative and how it will streamline processes to more efficiently and effectively serve the community.   

“Our organizations have evolved far beyond what a traditional chamber of commerce and convention and visitors bureau looks like,” said Matt Pivarnik, CEO of the Greater Myrtle Beach Collaborative. “The Collaborative reflects the breadth and impact of what we do together, from advocating for businesses and marketing one of America’s most visited destinations to driving long-term regional prosperity. This overarching identity gives our stakeholders and our community a clearer picture of who we are, what each organization does and how we’re serving the greater Myrtle Beach area.”  

Greater Myrtle Beach Collaborative encompasses:  

• Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce: business advocacy, membership services and community engagement  

• Visit Myrtle Beach: tourism marketing, destination promotion, convention sales and sports tourism  

• Partnership Grand Strand: economic vitality, talent and business recruitment  

• Collaborate2031: the region’s five-year strategic initiative for growth and quality of place  

• Leadership Grand Strand & Grand Strand Young Professionals: leadership and professional development programs under the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber  

The introduction of The Collaborative will provide a connective framework that aligns the efforts of each individual organization toward shared goals. The mission of each organization under its helm, will remain the same: MBACC will continue to serve its members and advocate for business while Visit Myrtle Beach will continue to promote the region as a top tourism destination to support the local economy.   

Greater Myrtle Beach Collaborative values are:

• Passion & Love for Community (Almost Obsessive): We have an extraordinary love for the Greater Myrtle Beach Region and a deep commitment to the people we serve and work alongside 

• Collaboration (Shared Wins Over Credit): We collaborate across our organizations and community to move the region forward, putting shared wins over individual recognition 

• Vision (Future-Focused): We look ahead and develop long-term strategies that position our region for continued success 

• Integrity & Ethics (Non-Negotiable): We do what is right, always, with honesty, transparency, and accountability 

• Excellence & Quality (In Everything We Do): We strive for excellence, deliver high-quality outcomes, and hold ourselves and each other to high standards

“This announcement is very exciting for our community,” said Dr. Lori Heafner, Board Chair for the Collaborative and the Vice President for Academic Affairs for Horry‑Georgetown Technical College. 

“Through this restructuring and new enterprise, the missions of the Chamber, Visit Myrtle Beach and affiliated organizations become clearer, shared processes become more streamlined and ultimately, our growing communities are better served. This is an exciting time for our entire region, and the Greater Myrtle Beach Collaborative will help lead the way for our future endeavors.” 

In the coming months, The Collaborative brand will begin appearing alongside existing brands in communications, at events and across digital platforms. A dedicated web presence has launched at MyrtleBeachCollaborative.com providing information about the organizational structure, mission, leadership and initiatives.  

About the Greater Myrtle Beach Collaborative: 

The Greater Myrtle Beach Collaborative is an enterprise organization driving economic prosperity for the greater Myrtle Beach region. Through its entities like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, Visit Myrtle Beach, Partnership Grand Strand, and community and leadership initiatives, the Collaborative aligns business advocacy, tourism marketing, economic community development and regional leadership under one strategic platform. Learn more at MyrtleBeachCollaborative.com. 

The Myrtle Beach area is marking a decade of leadership in accessibility with the 10-year anniversary of its sensory-friendly initiatives during Autism Acceptance Month. Over the years, the destination has made significant strides in creating a more welcoming and inclusive experience for visitors of all abilities.

Through partnerships, training programs, and community-wide efforts, Myrtle Beach has become a recognized leader in autism-friendly travel—earning certifications and implementing resources that support individuals on the autism spectrum and their families.

This milestone highlights the ongoing commitment to accessibility and reinforces the region’s focus on ensuring every visitor can feel comfortable, supported, and included.

The Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce has been awarded the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s prestigious Five-Star Accreditation—its highest level of recognition—for excellence in leadership, operations, and community impact.

This designation reflects the Chamber’s continued commitment to supporting local businesses, driving economic growth, and maintaining strong standards across governance, advocacy, and member services. MBACC has held the Five-Star distinction since 2010, reinforcing its role as a leading voice for the business community in the region.

Collaborate 2031 is calling on residents across Horry County to help shape a unified, forward-looking strategic plan for the region. The initiative is designed to align priorities and create a shared vision for long-term economic growth and quality of life.

Community input will play a central role in identifying key opportunities, challenges, and priorities. By gathering feedback from those who live and work in the region, the plan aims to reflect a broad and inclusive perspective on the county’s future.

This effort represents a collaborative approach to planning—bringing together leaders, organizations, and residents to ensure the strategy is both actionable and representative of the community it serves.

Emmy Award-winning travel host Darley Newman recently returned to the Myrtle Beach area to film a special homecoming feature, highlighting the region’s experiences, culture, and coastal charm. The visit showcases the Grand Strand through a national lens, bringing added visibility to the destination.

During her time in the area, Newman explored a variety of local attractions and experiences, capturing the unique character that continues to draw visitors from across the country. The feature is expected to highlight both well-known spots and lesser-known gems.

This opportunity reinforces the impact of tourism storytelling and national media exposure in promoting the Myrtle Beach area as a must-visit destination.

The Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce and Visit Myrtle Beach are recognizing the volunteer leaders serving on their 2026 Board of Directors and advisory boards. These individuals play a key role in guiding strategy, supporting initiatives, and helping shape the direction of both organizations.

Comprised of business and community leaders from across the region, the boards provide valuable insight and leadership that strengthen decision-making and ensure alignment with the needs of the local community and industry partners.

Their continued involvement reflects the importance of volunteer leadership in driving progress and supporting the long-term success of the Greater Myrtle Beach area.