Innovate Columbia re-launches website geared toward local entrepreneurs

Innovate Columbia announced the re-launching of its website which is designed to grow and strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem throughout the Midlands region of South Carolina.

Launched in 2020 as an initiative of the Midlands Business Leadership Group (MBLG), www.InnovateColumbiaSC.com was created as a one-stop-shop for entrepreneurs looking to grow their business. The website connects entrepreneurs with resources in categories dealing with incubation, space, guidance, funding, networking and events.

“The Columbia region is becoming a hub for entrepreneurial innovation, in large part due to the gritty and collaborative spirit of the entrepreneurs who have selected the Midlands as their starting ground,” said James Bennett, Chair of MBLG. “We know from this year’s Elevate Midlands report that entrepreneurship is a cornerstone of the region’s growth and one of the areas where we rank highest, and MBLG is excited to build on this momentum with the re-launch of the Innovate Columbia website.”

MBLG, in partnership with the University of South Carolina Office of Economic Engagement, revamped the website to become more user-friendly by providing an updated database of resources giving users the ability to easily identify and connect with the abundance of resources within the Midlands’ region.

“MBLG has been working to find the right partner to provide a robust website of resources and tools to bolster the Midlands entrepreneurial community,” said William Hubbard, Dean of the University of South Carolina School of Law and Chair of the MBLG Innovate Columbia Initiative. “We have that partner now with USC’s Office of Economic Engagement and look forward to maintaining an up-to-date website to catalyze innovation in our community.”

“We are excited to partner with MBLG in growing the Midlands entrepreneurial community,” said Bill Kirkland, Executive Director of the University of South Carolina Office of Economic Engagement. “By connecting startups with the resources of the local community, we’re building a brighter future for the Midlands and the state as a whole.”

Moving forward, Innovate Columbia plans to increase awareness and engagement within the local entrepreneurial community by promoting upcoming networking events and highlighting success stories of local entrepreneurs. Furthermore, Innovate Columbia will continue to constantly update and improve the website to ensure that entrepreneurs have the tools needed to become successful.