Columbia Area Development Partnership now officially leading Richland County’s economic development efforts

The Columbia Area Development Partnership (CADP) has officially launched in Richland County, taking the lead on all economic development efforts for Richland County. This marks the full transition from the former Richland County Economic Development Office to a new, unified public-private partnership.

CADP is now live across all digital platforms, including website, social media, and communication channels, signifying the complete rollout of this new era in development. Its mission is to serve as the primary force in attracting new businesses and assisting existing companies with expansion efforts. By simplifying processes and bringing together decision-makers from diverse fields of expertise, the region is now even better positioned for sustainable, inclusive success.

“Today marks the activation of a new chapter for Richland County’s economy,” said Jeff Ruble, CEO of the Columbia Area Development Partnership. “The CADP represents years of listening, planning, and building toward a stronger, more collaborative approach to economic development. Built on more than a decade of progress since the County’s Economic Development Office was established in 2011, this new model gives us the agility and resources needed to compete nationally while ensuring our local communities benefit from smart, inclusive development.”

The creation of CADP was fueled by strategic planning and visionary leadership from the Richland County Council. Input from more than 30 stakeholders, spanning key industries such as technology, healthcare, manufacturing, real estate, workforce development, and higher education, shaped the organization’s direction and brand.

“The launch of the CADP is more than a name change; it’s a strategic leap forward for our county and our region,” said Jesica Mackey, Richland County Council Chair and Co-Chair of the CADP Board. “By bringing public and private leadership together under one umbrella, we’re creating a clear, powerful engine for growth. The partnership will help position our region to compete at the highest levels while keeping our values and our people at the center of everything we do.”

The CADP is structured as a nonprofit organization, managed by a board of local respected business and community leaders from private and public sectors. This diverse leadership provides critical insight, enabling the CADP to deliver strategic site selection support and negotiate competitive incentive packages to businesses looking to invest and expand in Columbia and Richland County.

The CADP Board of Directors includes County Councilmembers, business operators, and academic leaders, ensuring the partnership reflects a wide range of perspectives and champions inclusive economic progress.

CADP Board of Directors:

• Jesica Mackey, CADP Co-Chair; Richland County Council Chairwoman
• Damon C. Jeter, CADP Co-Chair; Principal Founder, JET Corp Consulting Group
• Dr. Stephen J. Cutler, CADP Secretary; Vice President, Office of Economic Engagement / Dean, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina
• Kim A. Smith, CADP Treasurer; Founder & CEO, Health Evolve Technologies
• Robert Dozier, President & CEO, Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union
• Dr. Tracy Harrell Dunn, Dean, Tyrone Adams Burroughs School of Business & Entrepreneurship, Benedict College
• Paul Livingston, Economic Development Committee Chairman, Richland County Council
• Heather A. Mitchell, Architect | President, BOUDREAUX
• Rick Shippey, Plant General Manager, Mark Anthony Brewing

About the Columbia Area Development Partnership

The Columbia Area Development Partnership (CADP) is a not-for-profit, public-private partnership (P3) serving as the lead authority for economic development in Richland County. By merging public- and private-sector support, it builds upon the area’s rapid economic development growth, facilitates continued global industry recruitment, and enhances innovation. The partnership enhances the county’s ability to attract and retain industry investments and high-quality jobs, positioning Richland County as a competitive destination for business and community opportunities.