In 2016, esteemed Wells Fargo economist Mark Vitner referred to South Carolina as an "industrial powerhouse." While a remarkable accolade for a small, southern state --the economic data seems to support Vitner's claim. Since 2011, an influx of global industry giants have made significant investments in South Carolina; and, as a result, there are 290,000 more people working in the state today than there were seven years ago. Also during that time, South Carolina's manufacturing sector has grown more than any other state in the Southeast -- 19 percent since 2011.
As the economy has expanded, so have the opportunities for existing South Carolina firms. In an effort to assist in-state companies as they try to participate and take advantage of this growing industrial footprint, S.C. Commerce created SourceSC, a material and service locator program. Formerly known as Buy South Carolina, SourceSC is designed to connect South Carolina companies with in-state suppliers and vendors. Since its inception, a variety of participating firms have won contracts and gained new business through SourceSC, including American Security of Greenville, CodeLynx and Colite.
Recently, www.sourceSC.com -- the online home of SourceSC -- has undergone some significant changes. With a new look, businesses now have access to an easier-to-use database, as well as a portal to view upcoming business development events taking place across the state in a variety of industries.
Moving forward, as opportunities in this growing economy continue to arise, S.C. Commerce will keep doing all it can to bring business to business. And, as companies of all shapes and sizes utilize programs like SourceSC, we'll be able to promote economic prosperity across this state for many years to come.