2021 Upstate SC investments top $2.5 billion

February 10, 2022

85 companies announced 8,941 jobs to be created across 10-county region

Upstate South Carolina’s economic momentum continued in 2021, with 85 companies announcing more than $2.5 billion in capital investment and 8,941 jobs to be created across the 10-county region.

The numbers, collated and reported by the Upstate SC Alliance, are comprised of new business recruitments and existing industry expansions reported by city and county economic development agencies spanning the Upstate.

And they come on the heels of the South Carolina Department of Commerce announcing a banner year in 2021, with $5.7 billion invested across the state and 18,000 new jobs to be created.

“It’s exciting the see the Upstate build upon its recent success,” said Upstate SC Alliance President & CEO John Lummus. “When existing industries continue to invest in our region, they are endorsing the strength of our business environment and quality of our workforce. When it comes time for new businesses to consider locations, they look first to the areas that demonstrate an ability to meet industry needs.”

Each of the 10 counties — Abbeville, Anderson, Cherokee, Greenwood, Greenville, Laurens, Oconee, Pickens, Spartanburg, Union — had at least one announcement.

Investments ranged from established international companies establishing a U.S. market presence through one-man “landing pads” to a 1.3-million square-foot distribution center. Companies investing also represent a diverse mix spanning automotive, food industry, life sciences, engineered materials and office projects.