Sumter Economic Development

05/26/2026

Sumter is steadily rising! Not only are we recognized as a growing hub for life sciences in the Southeast, but Sumter was also ranked as the #1 MSA (Metropolitan Statistical Area) in the Carolina's in employment growth. We are still climbing! Check out our per capita income growth!

05/19/2026

SelectUSA is an annual investment summit hosted by the U.S. Department of Commerce that facilitates foreign direct investment into the United States. The event brings together thousands of global investors, companies, and economic development organizations from across the country to promote business growth and expansion opportunities.

South Carolina's delegation is represented by the South Carolina Department of Commerce and leaders from the state's eight regional economic development alliances, showcasing a unified effort to attract investment and strengthen economic opportunities throughout the state.

During this year's summit, North American President of eVAC Magnetics, Sam Trinch, stopped by the South Carolina booth moments before participating in an industry spotlight panel moderated by Josh Kroon, Deputy Assistant Secretary at the U.S. Department of Commerce. The discussion focused on the critical role U.S. companies play in building a secure and diversified critical minerals ecosystem.

During the panel, Mr. Trinch highly praised South Carolina as a pro-business state and emphasized what an incredible partner it has been to work with. He also highlighted how successful eVAC Magnetics has been in Sumter, pointing to the community's strategic location near Shaw Air Force Base and the region's strong support throughout the company's growth and development process.

05/11/2026

We are proud to celebrate our very own Darlene Sparks on being awarded the South Carolina Economic Development Institute Scholarship in Honor of Irwin Maceo Nance.

The South Carolina Economic Development Institute is a highly respected program that has had more than 1,500 participants graduate from the program where they have gained hands-on experience and advanced economic development training.

This scholarship recognizes emerging leaders dedicated to strengthening communities and advancing economic growth across South Carolina. We are excited to see Darlene continue expanding her knowledge and leadership in economic development while representing Sumter and our region well.

Please join us in congratulating Darlene on this outstanding achievement. 👏

05/08/2026

What’s next following the Palmetto Sites designation is continued site and product development through initiatives such as pad-ready sites and speculative building construction.

Through collaboration, partnership, and the support of our allies, we are able to advance industrial property development efforts that are critical to prospect recruitment and the continued marketing of our region.

Our economic development team is always planning, preparing, and delivering.

05/06/2026

We’re proud to share that a member of our team, Erika Williams, recently completed the SC Ports Port Ambassador Program — a leadership initiative that educates community leaders on the Port’s operations, statewide impact, and future growth opportunities across South Carolina.

This experience is especially valuable for Sumter economic development as port connectivity, infrastructure, and logistics continue to play a critical role in supporting industry growth, attracting investment, and strengthening South Carolina’s economy.

Congratulations Erika!!!!🥳🥳🥳

05/05/2026

Earning a Palmetto Sites designation is a detailed process designed to ensure a site is truly ready for industrial development. All seven of the industrial sites represented by Sumter Economic Development and TheLINK Alliance in Sumter and Lee Counties are designated Palmetto Sites, a designation earned in partnership with the SC Department of Commerce and Site Selection Group.

To become a certified site, communities and property owners work through several important steps including, but not limited to:
-Environmental studies
-Wetlands Delineation
-Geotechnical Exploration
-Cultural Resources Studies
-Endangered Species Studies
-Flood Plain Evaluations
-Utility and infrastructure evaluations
-Transportation access reviews
-Site boundary and acreage verification
-Master Development Plans

The goal is to provide prospective clients with the confidence that a site is prepared for investment, helping accelerate economic growth, and job creation opportunities.

The Palmetto Sites designation reflects strategic planning, collaboration, and a long-term commitment to positioning our region for continued success.

05/04/2026

We proudly recognize Sumter for receiving the prestigious S.C. Department of Commerce Palmetto Sites designation -- a milestone that reflects our community's commitment to growth, readiness, and opportunity.

This designation represents more than a certified site. It represents strategic planning, strong partnerships, and a shared vision for the future of economic development in Sumter.

We are honored to continue building a community that is prepared to attract investment, create jobs and support long-term success for generations to come.

Congratulations to everyone who played a role in this achievement! 👏

05/04/2026

🎉🎉🎉Happy Economic Development Week!🎉🎉🎉

This week, we join in celebrating Economic Development Week across the country to recognize the impact economic development has had in creating stronger regions and greater opportunities for all.

This year is especially meaningful as International Economic Development Council celebrates 100 years of impact -- honoring a century of leadership, innovation, and commitment to building thriving regions.

Here in Sumter, economic development is not only about growth, it's about people. From supporting local industry and workforce development, to creating pathways for students and attracting new investment, EVERY effort helps shape a stronger future for our community.

Thank you to the businesses, educators, partners, and community leaders who continue invest and help move our region forward.

04/20/2026

If your company or a business you know is hiring, please contact
Erika Williams ([email protected])

03/26/2026