More Than a Car Show: How the Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance Fuels Community and Future Innovators

Attendees of the Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance and Motoring Festival truly get value for their ticket purchase, knowing their contribution extends beyond the event itself. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit, the festival supports the education, inspiration and creativity of young people with aspirations in the automotive, aviation and mobility industries. The festival also strengthens the local community by backing youth programs and organizations that play a critical role in its success.

“It’s one of the biggest shows in the Southeast that focuses on everything motoring,” Smith said. “That’s very unique for an event of our scale. The Charitable Fund has donated more than a million dollars back to local charities, so the cost of your ticket goes right back into our community, while also funding scholarships in design and engineering that help put children on the path to careers in motoring. People don’t realize how influential South Carolina is. We have Volvo, BMW and a Michelin plant. Our youth don’t have to go to Detroit for engineering school — they can learn a lot right here in South Carolina. Whether they want to design cars, innovate them, conceptualize them or even become pilots, we’ve made it our mission to support those ambitions through scholarships.”

The Pinnacle Society, a membership organization dedicated to the festival’s longevity and charitable initiatives, provides critical support. With minimum contributions of $1,000, Pinnacle Society members help fund youth programs and scholarships. In return, they receive general admission tickets to the Car Club Showcase and Concours d’Elegance, along with access to an exclusive invitation-only dinner.