SCRA launches investments in innovation hubs to drive tech ecosystem growth across South Carolina

Columbia, S.C. – The South Carolina Research Authority today announced the launch of a statewide network of Innovation Hubs designed to accelerate investment and strengthen South Carolina’s emerging technology ecosystems in key regions across the state.

The new initiative will establish innovation hubs in Columbia, Charleston, Greenville, Aiken, Rock Hill, and Florence. These hubs will be central regions for collaboration, resource sharing, and support for high-potential tech companies as they grow from ideas to impactful enterprises.

Governor Henry McMaster said, “South Carolina has built a strong foundation for innovation, and this is the next step in accelerating that momentum. By connecting entrepreneurs with the resources they need, we will expand opportunity and keep our state competitive. These innovation hubs will play a critical role in strengthening our economy, creating jobs, and ensuring South Carolina continues to lead the way in innovation.” 

To jumpstart programming at these hubs, SCRA is making grant funding available to entrepreneurial support organizations beginning in May. Eligible non-profit ESOs, including accelerators, incubators, colleges, universities, and industry associations, may apply for grants to develop and deliver targeted programming that helps early-stage high-tech and high-growth companies accelerate their innovations.

“South Carolina’s tech ecosystem is poised for significant growth, and these Innovation Hubs represent a strategic investment in our future,” said SCRA Interim President and CEO Bill Kirkland. “By empowering local ESOs with funding to create high-impact programming, we are equipping entrepreneurs with the tools, networks, and expertise they need to turn bold ideas into thriving companies that create high-quality jobs and drive economic prosperity across the state.” 

Grant funding will support a wide range of programming activities, including mentorship programs, pitch competitions, technical workshops, investor matchmaking events, and specialized training in areas such as product development, go-to-market strategies, fundraising, and intellectual property. The goal is to create an environment where innovative companies can rapidly advance their technologies, attract follow-on investment, and scale operations within South Carolina.

This ‘Hub’ initiative builds on SCRA’s long-standing mission to accelerate applied research, innovation, and entrepreneurship throughout the state. By focusing on resources in six strategic markets, SCRA aims to ensure that communities across South Carolina benefit from a vibrant, interconnected tech economy.

“The South Carolina Research Authority’s coordinated network of Innovation Hubs is another critical step forward for our emerging innovation ecosystem in South Carolina,” said MUSC President David J. Cole, M.D., FACS. “These strategic ecosystem investments strengthen our commercialization pipeline, empower entrepreneurs, and ensure that life-changing innovations developed at MUSC benefit patients, create jobs, and drive South Carolina’s knowledge economy forward.” 

Visit SCRA.org for guidelines, eligibility criteria, and application instructions. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with priority given to proposals that demonstrate strong potential for measurable outcomes, including job creation, company formation, and increased private investment. Interested applicants should contact innovationhubs@scra.org.