News Summary
The Propel Business Lab is launching a new cohort in Greenwood to offer vital business training to aspiring entrepreneurs. In collaboration with VisionGreenwood and Lander University, this 12-week accelerator program aims to foster community-driven business development, featuring hands-on education and mentorship. Participants have the chance to compete for a $5,000 startup grant and earn three hours of course credit from Lander University. Applications are being accepted until September 12, encouraging entrepreneurs of all experience levels to apply.
Greenwood – A new cohort of the Propel Business Lab is set to launch in Greenwood, providing essential business training for aspiring entrepreneurs in the county and surrounding regions. This initiative is a collaboration between VisionGreenwood and Lander University, aimed at fostering community-driven business development.
The Propel Business Lab is a comprehensive 12-week accelerator program designed to aid emerging entrepreneurs in establishing sustainable and locally-rooted businesses. The program features hands-on education, mentorship opportunities, and a competitive pitch competition wherein participants vie for a $5,000 startup grant to support their business endeavors.
Since its debut in 2022, the Propel Business Lab has successfully graduated over 90 entrepreneurs from the greater Central Savannah River Area. Collectively, these graduates have generated an estimated $3.4 million in annual economic impact, significantly contributing to the local economy. The collaborative effort aims to build an inclusive and accessible entrepreneurial ecosystem throughout South Carolina.
Participants in the Propel program will convene weekly to construct comprehensive business plans, enhance their marketing and financial literacy, and improve their digital presence. By the conclusion of the program, participants will take part in a live pitch competition, with the prospect of one participant receiving a $5,000 grant dedicated to launching or expanding their business.
Upon completion of the program, participants will be awarded three hours of course credit from Lander University, further incentivizing engagement and commitment to entrepreneurial education. Applications for the upcoming Greenwood cohort are currently being accepted and will close on September 12. Entrepreneurs across all experience levels and business structures are encouraged to apply. A $100 participation fee is required for those selected, which covers all program materials as well as six months of mentorship following program completion.
The launch of this new cohort represents a significant stride toward boosting economic vitality in Greenwood through entrepreneurship. Both VisionGreenwood and Lander University strongly support the notion that fostering entrepreneurship catalyzes local innovation and job creation, ultimately paving the way for a robust economic future for the area.
Key Features of the Propel Business Lab
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Duration | 12 weeks |
| Target Audience | Aspiring entrepreneurs from all experience levels |
| Core Components | Business plan development, marketing education, financial literacy, digital presence improvement |
| Grant | $5,000 startup grant available to one participant |
| Course Credit | Three hours of credit from Lander University |
| Participation Fee | $100 for selected applicants, covering program materials and mentorship |
| Application Deadline | September 12 |
FAQs
What is the Propel Business Lab?
The Propel Business Lab is a 12-week accelerator program aimed at supporting aspiring entrepreneurs in creating sustainable businesses through education and mentorship.
Who can apply for this program?
Entrepreneurs of all experience levels and business structures are eligible to apply.
What is the cost to participate?
The selected participants are required to pay a $100 participation fee, which covers all program materials and six months of mentorship post-program.
What is the application deadline?
Applications for the Greenwood area cohort will close on September 12.
What do participants receive upon completion?
Participants will receive three hours of course credit from Lander University and have the opportunity to compete for a $5,000 startup grant.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Lander University Partners with Eaton Corporation to Enhance Student Opportunities
Lander University Launches New College of Business and Technology
Lander University Partners with VisionGreenwood for Business Accelerator Program
New Propel Business Lab Cohort to Launch in Greenwood
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
Additional Resources
- Columbia Business Report: Propel Business Lab Launch
- Wikipedia: Entrepreneurship
- GSA Business: Greenwood County Technical Innovation Center
- Google Search: Business Innovation
- Columbia Business Report: Comporium Names New CEO
- Google Scholar: Entrepreneurship Education
- GSA Business: Fablogix Expansion
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Entrepreneurship
- Columbia Business Report: SC Startups Sloss Tech Pitch Competition
- Google News: Entrepreneurship Programs
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.
