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No-cost, one-on-one, confidential consulting on how to start a business or expand an existing business is available.  Click on the button below to request an appointment with a Business Consultant today!  Call us at 843.740.6160.

COVID-19 Information

Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) and Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)

The Small Business Administration deadline to apply for the Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) has closed.  Consultants at your local SBDC are ready to assist business owners impacted by COVID-19 who have received funding and are now moving forward with compliance. 

Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). SBDC Consultants are available to assist with the forgiveness process.  To learn how to start the forgiveness process for a PPP loan, CLICK HERE     We look forward to serving your business needs at this crucial time and in the future.  Please call us at 843.740.6160 to schedule an appointment.  Call Us. We Can Help.

We're BIG on SMALL Business

The Charleston Area Small Business Development Center provides no-cost, one–on–one consultation to prospective and existing business owners. Consultants assist clients with developing business plans, analyzing new opportunities and strategies, and in securing capital funding to start or expand their business. We have specialists who can assist business owners in government contracting, manufacturing and technical commercialization. All services offered by the Small Business Development Center are free and confidential.

Finance

We help our clients identify lending and investment partners to help establish and grow their businesses.

Business Plan

We guide entrepreneurs through the business planning process, including writing a business plan, capital formation, and creating a marketing plan.

Government Contracts

Our government contracting consultant guides clients through the process of bidding on and securing government contracts.

Marketing Strategy

Clients may request market research reports or obtain recommendations for their promotional plans.

Exporting

A certified specialist can help your business explore and expand to overseas markets.

Technology Commercialization

If you have an idea for a new product or process, our  consultant can assist to help you bring your new product to market.

SC SBDC Funding Sources

The SC SBDC is funded in part by a cooperative agreement with the Small Business Administration. It is a member of America’s SBDC. Matching funds are provided by the SC Department of Commerce, the SC Legislature and a University Consortium – Clemson University, the University of South Carolina, South Carolina State University and Winthrop University.

 

Mission Statement

To advance South Carolina’s economic development by helping entrepreneurs grow successful businesses. To learn more about the SC SBDC Mission, Vision and Values, click here.

Who We Are...

The Charleston Area SBDC is one of 21 Small Business Development Centers across South Carolina with highly-trained consultants who assist both existing and startup companies.  To find other locations, click here.

2022 Accomplishments

In 2022, the SC SBDC helped 4,693 entrepreneurs create and retain more than 2,455 jobs; start 206 new business ventures; generate $128.7 million in capital formation; and secure more than $60.9 million in government contracts.