Main Street South Carolina, the downtown revitalization technical assistance program of the Municipal Association of SC, announced the creation of a Small-Scale Producer Growth Accelerator program. This 16-week program will help participating businesses scale up their operations, increase revenue and access critical resources, including capital. Applications are open until December 1, with 20 spots available.
Main Street SC created the program through a partnership with Main Street America, co-funded by an Appalachian Regional Commission Area Development grant. This makes it available to businesses in South Carolina’s seven ARC counties — Anderson, Cherokee, Greenville, Oconee, Pickens, Spartanburg and Union.
Funded to promote regional economic development, the program will combine online learning, virtual coaching, in-person workshops, mentorship and peer networking. Selected participants will learn about key business areas including finance, operations, logistics, sales and marketing, digital commerce, human resources and legal considerations, all guided by mentors and industry experts.
For training on access to capital, the participants will receive guidance on crowdfunding and AmEx Backing Small Businesses Grants. They will also receive hands-on training to expand online sales and reach new markets.
The program is designed to create a measurable impact for businesses and communities, boosting revenue and expanding customer bases. Its tech-enabled hybrid model removes geographic barriers, making participation accessible to rural producers across the state.