South Carolina Department of Commerce
“South Carolina is home to innovative companies and visionaries launching past the ordinary to ensure a sustainable advantage. Our talented workforce, unparalleled infrastructure, and collaborative approach reinforce the state’s reputation for being the place where companies can build a vision into a legacy.”
— Harry M. Lightsey III,
South Carolina Secretary of Commerce
TARGETED GROWTH SECTORS
Electric Vehicles: The production of electric vehicles and related components is accelerating at the intersection of advanced manufacturing and innovation in South Carolina.
Life Sciences: An aging population and revolutionary technological advances have propelled life sciences, the state’s fastest growing industry. Supported by an innovative workforce, top research institutions, and world-class hospital systems, South Carolina is poised for an expanding biotech infrastructure.
Headquarters: From aerospace and automotive to manufacturing and technology, South Carolina is a natural choice for headquarters and corporate offices.
TOP PROJECTS
COMPANY | CITY | INVESTMENT |
Redwood Materials, Inc. | Ridgeville | $3.5 billion |
Scout Motors, Inc. | Blythewood | $2 billion |
BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC | Greer | $1.7 billion |
Albemarle Corporation | Richburg | $1.3 billion |
QTS Data Centers | York | $1 billion |
FEATURED LOCATIONS
Positioned in the heart of South Carolina, the Central SC Region’s natural advantage translates into efficient connections to customers and suppliers. Combining a desirable location with competitive utilities, and a cost of living well below the national average, Central SC delivers a globally connected, world-class home.
Santee Cooper, the state-owned electric and water company, is transforming its power mix with more renewables, while maintaining best-in-class reliability (top 2 percent in the US) and low industrial pricing that helps power industries across South Carolina.
FAST FACTS
Population (July 2022 est.): 5,282,634¹
Largest Cities (2020): Charleston (150,903); Columbia (137,314); North Charleston (115,771); Mount Pleasant (90,871); Greenville (70,899)¹
Real GDP (2022): $226.4 billion²
¹U.S. Census Bureau
²Bureau of Economic Analysis, U.S. Dept. of Commerce
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
The Jobs Development Credit is a discretionary program offering a quarterly cash refund of a portion of the personal withholding taxes of new employees. Qualifying businesses create at least 10 full-time jobs.
TOP BUSINESS FACILITIES RANKINGS
#3 Fastest Growing (Population) | 2023 State Rankings |
Top 5 Housing Growth Market | 2023 State Rankings |
Top 10 Automotive | 2023 State Rankings |
Top 10 Customized Workforce Training | 2023 State Rankings |
Top 10 EV Industry Investment | 2023 State Rankings |
Top 10 Broadband Access | 2023 State Rankings |
#2 Fastest Growing Metros: Myrtle Beach | 2023 Metro Rankings |
Top 5 Industrial Parks: Camp Hall Industrial Commerce Park (Charleston) | 2023 Metro Rankings |
Top 10 Top Container Ports (By TEU): Charleston | 2023 Metro Rankings |
Top 10 Most Affordable Cities (Over 500K Pop.): Greenville MSA | 2023 Metro Rankings |
LATEST NEWS
CSX Select Site Program Recognizes 14 Sites In Eight States
Through its Select Site program, Jacksonville, FL-based CSX identifies rail-served properties with desirable traits for expanding companies.
York County, South Carolina: Growing With Charlotte And Beyond
At the heart of the Carolinas’ largest metro, York County offers a diverse, thriving economy, great living choices, and room to grow.
South Carolina: Supporting Business From Launch To Legacy
The South Carolina Department of Commerce’s new brand campaign reinforces the state’s commitment to companies’ long-term success.
AESC And Amazon Announce Expansions In South Carolina
EV battery maker's AESC expansion in Florence County, SC represents more than $3 billion in investment there since 2022, while Amazon is expanding its presence in the state with a same-day delivery facility in North Myrtle Beach.
DCC Metal Recycling Adds $11M Investment to South Carolina
DCC Metal Recycling will invest $11 million to add its seventh operation in South Carolina. The operation will bring 78 jobs to the state.
SC Produce Company Invests $26.2M In Palmetto State
A full-service fresh produce supplier will invest $26.2 million to improve its facility in Richland County, South Carolina.