By Jenny Boulware, Main Street South Carolina Manager; and Lee Scarborough, Main Street SC Intern
South Carolina’s communities are full of hardworking entrepreneurs and one-of-a-kind small businesses, but in today’s era of technology, they can’t thrive if customers can’t find them online. That’s where WeShopSC comes in.
A commission-free, statewide e-commerce platform created by the Municipal Association of South Carolina and managed by the Main Street SC team, WeShopSC helps local businesses claim their place in the digital marketplace, all at no cost.
Since its launch, WeShopSC has been building momentum. The impact so far includes more than 700 business profiles, representing 91 cities and towns throughout the state, and grouped into 40 active local markets. Its growth since launch means that WeShopSC has experienced about 400% year-over-year growth in participating businesses.
Why WeShopSC matters
WeShopSC makes it simple for any business — regardless of size or tech skill — to show up and stand out online. Through it, small businesses gain a number of advantages:
- A free digital storefront with photos, product listings and service details
- A space to tell their entrepreneurial story
- Exposure through coordinated statewide marketing campaigns
How local leaders can help
City leaders have the power to amplify the visibility of their local businesses by encouraging participation. They can directly invite the small businesses to join and complete their profiles, promote WeShopSC on their city's website and social media and host a WeShopSC informational workshop.
Built on partnerships
WeShopSC’s success is powered by collaboration. In just two years, the team has:
- Secured grants to fund statewide ads, media campaigns, technical assistance and outreach
- Provided one-on-one onboarding and support across the state
- Delivered professional photography for 250+ small businesses
- Developed easy-to-use toolkits and guides
Supporting small businesses online isn’t just good for them — it’s good for a community’s economy and visibility. Every small business on WeShopSC fuels South Carolina’s vibrancy and entrepreneurial spirit. When city leaders embrace and share this opportunity, they spark stronger local support.
Join us in making South Carolina’s small businesses easier to find, support, and celebrate. Visit WeShopSC.com to get started.