News Summary
A new cohort of the Propel Business Lab is launching in Greenwood, offering essential business training for aspiring entrepreneurs. This 12-week program, a collaboration between VisionGreenwood and Lander University, enhances economic vitality through hands-on education, mentorship, and a chance to win a $5,000 startup grant. Open to participants at all experience levels, the program promotes accessibility in entrepreneurship, contributing to innovation and economic growth in the region.
Greenwood, SC – A new cohort of the Propel Business Lab will launch in Greenwood, aimed at providing essential business training for aspiring entrepreneurs in the county and surrounding regions. This initiative is a partnership between VisionGreenwood, Lander University, and the Propel Business Lab team.
The Propel Business Lab, a 12-week accelerator program, focuses on helping emerging entrepreneurs build sustainable and locally-rooted businesses. Participants can expect hands-on education, mentorship opportunities, and the chance to compete in a pitch competition that awards a $5,000 startup grant to one chosen participant.
Since its establishment in 2022 in Barnwell, the Propel Business Lab has successfully graduated over 90 entrepreneurs from the greater Central Savannah River Area, which includes Allendale, Barnwell, and Bamberg counties. According to recent estimates, the economic impact generated by the Propel Business Lab is approximately $3.4 million annually.
Kay Self, executive director of VisionGreenwood, expressed pride in the introduction of this program in Greenwood, underscoring a commitment to enhancing economic vitality through entrepreneurship. Additionally, Lloyd Willis, dean of the College of Business and Technology at Lander University, highlighted the significance of entrepreneurship in fostering local innovation and creating jobs.
This collaborative initiative seeks to promote a more inclusive and accessible entrepreneurial ecosystem across South Carolina, making it easier for individuals from various backgrounds and experience levels to engage in business development.
Throughout the program, participants will convene weekly to work on developing comprehensive business plans, enhancing their marketing and financial literacy, and improving their digital presence. The program culminates in a live pitch competition, where one entrepreneur stands to win a grant to help launch their business.
Completing the program also allows participants to earn three hours of course credit from Lander University, adding educational value to their entrepreneurial endeavors. The application period for this Greenwood-area cohort is currently open and will close on September 12, 2025. Entrepreneurs at all levels of experience and with various business structures are encouraged to apply.
Successfully selected applicants will be required to pay a $100 participation fee, which covers all program materials and provides them with six months of post-program mentorship. This investment not only supports the individuals participating but also contributes to building a strong network of entrepreneurs within the region.
The launch of the Propel Business Lab’s new cohort represents a vital step in nurturing entrepreneurial talent and supporting the local economy in Greenwood and beyond. As more individuals engage in entrepreneurship, the region stands to benefit from increased innovation, job creation, and economic growth.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Rising Nationalism Spurs Sanseito Party’s Gains in Japan
Uber Invests $300 Million in Lucid for Autonomous Vehicles
South Carolina’s Vision for Manufacturing Growth
Raleigh Crowned Best City in America for 2025
Greenville’s Vision for a Robust Manufacturing Future
Kobe Digital Expands into Miami with New Office
Raleigh Named Best-Performing Large City for Economic Growth
South Carolina Sets Vision for Manufacturing Growth by 2025
South Carolina Achieves Record Economic Impact in 2024
Naomi Lett Appointed CEO of South Carolina Technical College System Foundation
Additional Resources
- PR Newswire: Sharp Named 2025 Best Place to Work in South Carolina
- Wikipedia: Entrepreneurship
- The State: News on South Carolina
- Google Search: South Carolina Economic Impact
- Greenville Business Mag: Top Workplaces 2025
- Google Scholar: Entrepreneurship Training Programs
- Newswire: DIN Development Corporation Named to 2025 Best Places to Work
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Small Business Development
- Forbes: Best Large Employers 2025
- Google News: Entrepreneurship Education
Author: HERE Greenwood
The GREENWOOD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGreenwood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Greenwood, Greenwood County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Festival of Flowers, Greenwood Community Theatre performances, and agricultural showcases at the Greenwood County Fairgrounds. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Greenwood United Ministry, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as FujiFilm Manufacturing and Self Regional Healthcare. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
