South Carolina Business

Moving businesses forward 

SC Commerce can help you connect with funding, local resources, buyers, even data and analytics to guide your business decisions.

Reach Peak efficiency

Looking to increase production & profitability?

Want to reach peak efficiency? Let us connect you with an area expert who can identify barriers or issues that may be stifling growth. These one-to-one consultations provide an assessment of your operation, moving your business potential to the next level.

Existing Industry Expertise
Start exporting

Looking to Export?

Whether it’s identifying potential markets for your export goods or understanding port regulations, SC has a wealth of international trade expertise. Your company can gain insight and practical knowledge from the proven success of trade specialists.

Trade Assistance Details
SizeUp SC Tool

Need Business Intelligence on SC Markets and Your Competition?

Business intelligence can be a huge differentiator. SizeUpSC is an easy-to-use platform that allows you to receive data to help your company make better decisions around competitive benchmarking, customers, suppliers, even marketing and advertising.

Watch Video Use the Tool
build your workforce

Need Help Recruiting and Retaining Employees?

What do SC companies say is their number one challenge? Employee recruitment and retention. The SC workforce system can assist with finding qualified employees, employee retention, as well as training programs through technical and community colleges or apprenticeships.

Workforce Support Details
All Enhancement Resources
build a business plan

Need Help Getting Started?

Starting any business takes a significant amount of planning and research. Exploring your business goals is extremely important. Take a look at our checklist and resources to see how we can assist you in building a concise, yet comprehensive business plan.

Get the Checklist
Secure financial resources

Are You Ready for Funding?

After outlining your business plan, the financial requirements of your business should become clear. The next step is securing financial resources. We can help you identify the funding available.

Types of Financing
Stand out from the competition

Looking to Market Your Business?

In today’s competitive marketplace, success is dependent upon clear and consistent marketing plans that make a company’s products or services stand out from the competition. Here are a few of the public sector marketing resources available throughout the state.

Marketing Resources
Get local business licenses

Need Licenses, Permits or Registrations?

Federal, state and local laws establish guidelines such as occupational matters, business licensing, environmental permitting and tax withholdings. Our state does not have a statewide business license requirement, so you must apply for local business licenses.

Business License & Permits
All Growth Resources
scout motors

Scout Motors

Become a supplier for Scout Motors' new production facility near Columbia, S.C. 

Become a supplier for Scout Motors
AESC

AESC

Become a supplier for AESC in Florence, S.C. 

Become a supplier for AESC
Redwood Materials

Redwood Materials

Become a supplier for Redwood Materials

Redwood Materials Supplier Interest Form

Note: This content will not be available after April 30, 2024.

COVID-19 Business Resources

The South Carolina Department of Commerce is actively engaged in supporting the business community for impacts of the COVID-19. Find pertinent resources, business assistance and timely information for your company at the SC Commerce Business Resource Center. 

Business Resource Center

Get Connected for Business Growth

List your business in the SourceSC Industry Directory.

By listing in the SourceSC Industry Directory, you receive:

  • Directory Listing
  • Industry sourcing requests
  • Invitations to exclusive B2B & supplier outreach events
  • Access to the Commerce newsletter
Add Your Business Manage Your Listing

Upcoming Events

2024 SC Sustainability B2B Supplier Matchmaker

October 23 | 1:00 pm–4:00 pm
Columbia

The South Carolina Department of Commerce and Sustain SC will host a Sustainability B2B Supplier Matchmaker event, 1-4 p.m. on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, at the Central Energy building in Columbia, S.C.

The Sustainability B2B Supplier Matchmaker will be a series of 10-minute, one-on-one meetings between manufacturers and suppliers.

Registration does not guarantee a meeting with an OEM. All registrants will be vetted and suppliers will be matched with an OEM or Tier 1 company that has indicated its interest in the supplier’s particular service/product.

Event Details

SC Women's Executive Leadership Luncheon 2024

September 27 | 10:00 am–1:00 pm
Greenville

Elevate your leadership skills and network with like-minded professionals at this empowering event. Attendees can expect:

  •  Engaging Speakers
  •  Exciting Vendors
  •  Delicious Lunch
  •  Valuable Networking Opportunities

Whether you're a seasoned executive or aspiring leader, this luncheon is a must-attend. Don't miss out on this chance to connect, learn, and be inspired!

Event Details

2024 South Carolina Manufacturing Conference and Expo

November 7 – 8 | 8:00 am–1:00 pm
Greenville

Join manufacturing professionals from across the Southeast to discuss the latest manufacturing trends and topics, share their vision, become inspired and immerse yourself in manufacturing culture.

Event Details

Navigating Health Insurance Options for Small Business Owners

September 26 | 9:00 am–11:15 am
Greenville

Feeling lost in the world of small business health insurance? Annual Enrollment starts in September - this workshop will equip HR managers to find the best choice for their business.

  • Discover a variety of health insurance plan options suited to your small business' needs.
  • Learn about the latest healthcare law changes and how to be compliant.
  • Attract and retain top talent by offering competitive health benefits.
  • Learn cost-saving strategies for both you and your employees on premiums and prescriptions.
Event Details
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