City of Columbia Office of Economic Development moves forward with “Business in Motion”

COLUMBIA, SC – The City of Columbia’s Office of Economic Development has announced the kickoff of their “Business in Motion” program, an extension of their ongoing partnership with the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce focused on the retention and expansion of existing local businesses.

“Business Retention and Expansion Programs are vital to building and maintaining a strong and viable economy in our community.  The City of Columbia is committed to retaining and expanding local businesses.  Through the continued growth of local businesses, our citizens will benefit from the availability of jobs and an enhanced quality of life.  The long range impact of these types of programs will help to build a better financial forecast for entrepreneurs, business owners and residents not only today, but for future generations.  We are all working collectively to build a brighter future for our city, our community and our region. Business retention and expansion is a prime example of the Build Columbia management model, which focuses on efficient ways to run, grow and transform our city.”    –Teresa Wilson, Columbia City Manager

Each year, existing businesses typically account for 60-80 percent of job growth and investment in their local communities.  Not only do strong business retention and expansion programs benefit the local business community, but they also provide a solid foundation for the growth of other economic development initiatives such stronger recruiting and entrepreneurship programs.

“We are delighted to join with the City of Columbia and the Office of Economic Development to launch the newest phase of the ‘Business in Motion’ program. This program supports our overall mission to make our community one of the most economically prosperous regions in the United States. The Chamber strives to create a climate conducive to growth and development for our partners.“ -Carl Blackstone, President and CEO, Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce 

“Today, we are proud to launch a new phase of our successful existing industry program, because we understand being a world class leader in economic development begins at home – right here in our backyard – by taking care of our local business community and building strong, long lasting relationships that will lay the ground work for the economic development efforts of tomorrow. If we want to create real sustainable growth, we have to invest in local ideas, local talent and local businesses because they are the bedrock upon which all of this is built.  That’s what today’s all about. That is why we’re here- because we refuse to wait for fortune to shine upon us – because leaders don’t wait for opportunity, they create it.” –Mayor Steve Benjamin