Applications for the 2025 cohort are now open through October 31, 2024.

The Midlands Minority Business Accelerator (MMBA) is a program of the Columbia Chamber in partnership with the South Carolina Minority Business Accelerator. The South Carolina Minority Business Accelerator is a statewide initiative formed by the Greenville Chamber, the Charleston Metro Chamber, and the Columbia Chamber.

Funded with a seed grant from Bank of America, MMBA is an initiative designed to advance economic inclusion across the state of South Carolina by helping to reduce the economic disparities experienced by minority-owned businesses. The initiative provides opportunities for economic growth and prosperity for high-potential minority-owned firms. MMBA is a major economic development tool of the Columbia Chamber and is designed to make minority businesses more competitive. Its mission is clear: to accelerate the development of minority-owned businesses to strengthen and expand our region's minority entrepreneurial community.

IRS.gov Tax Resources for Small Businesses

The SC Community Capital Alliance provides funding to companies in underserved communities in South Carolina to support local economic development.

The Benedict College Statewide Investment Incubator (BCSIA) offers a 12-week program for early-stage founders looking to connect with mentorship, capital funding and more.

EforAll offers a business accelerator program and pitch contests to its communities, including the South Carolina Lowcountry.

The United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is offering small, Hispanic and minority-owned businesses one-on-one sessions with bilingual advisors who can provide guidance on hiring, finance, certifications and more.

The FedEx E-Commerce Learning Lab is a multi-faceted program designed to help diverse small business owners, primarily women and people of color, who are looking to develop or expand their e-commerce operations as they continue to adapt their business models in the wake of COVID-19. 

Kiva loans help entrepreneurs gain access to capital by providing no-interest, no-fee community-backed business loans on its global online platform. Kiva loans range from $1,000 to $15,000 for up to three years. Contact Saville Williams at [email protected] or visit our website if you are interested in applying for this opportunity.

The new Bank of America Institute for Women's Entrepreneurship at Cornell offers an unparalleled opportunity for women to earn a certificate in business from this Ivy League university. Through a free online program made possible by Bank of America, students will gain the skills, knowledge and resources necessary to build, manage and scale a successful business.

Milestone Circles is for women business owners seeking to grow their entrepreneurial mindset and skillsets to expand their business. Entrepreneurs will be matched to a virtual 12-week that compliments their drive, challenge, and company stage.

This program is free for entrepreneurs and made possible thanks to the generous support of Wells Fargo.