These venture capitalists, grants and sources for financing can help entrepreneurs plan, build and expand their businesses.

Access to Finances

Business Grants

Angel Investors

City Financing

SC Arts Commission

SCRA 

Funds research, startup and industry collaboration. Early stage companies accepted into SC Launch can apply for up to $775,000 in grants, loan and investment combinations.

VentureSouth

Angel group representing 300 individuals and funds. Invests $250,000 to $1 million in companies seeking to launch or scale market-ready products and services.

City of Columbia Financing

Startups can apply for funds to be used for building construction or rehabilitation, business conversion or expansion, purchasing of real estate, machinery, equipment, supplies and materials or working capital.

SC Community Loan Fund 

Financing for projects that attract businesses, provide housing, increase access to food and essential services, employ community members and stimulate economic activity with the goal of creating stronger communities

Provident Business Financial Services

An SBA 504 Certified Development Company (CDC). Provides economic development financing to small businesses through long-term, low down-payment, reasonably priced fixed-rate loans. Can also put entrepreneurs in contact with other financing institutions, help with applications for other government sponsored programs, and assist business owners with finding a bank.

Export Incentives Program 

Managed by the S.C. Department of Commerce. Helps small and medium-sized businesses increase exports and enter new markets with funding and expertise.

 

Financial Institution Directory:

AR Funding: 803-250-2107
Carolina Small Business: 704-763-3021
Community Loan Fund: 803-403-5524
Community Works
: 864-235-6331
Office of Business Opportunities: 803-545-3259
Optus Bank: 803-733-8100
Provident: 803-233-6386
SBA: 803-765-5377
SouthStar Capital: 803-763-3021
Woodforest Financial Services: 803-736-6165

Success Stories

"Our company thrives in Columbia, S.C. Why? Because there is a growing, influential cross section of leaders in Columbia that is hungry to realize positive economic, social and educational change. That aligns directly with our mission."

Dr. Laura Boccanfuso
CEO, Van Robotics

 

More Success Stories