Power Up Spartanburg Celebrates One Year, Launches New Resources for Business Owners
Spartanburg County Council Initiative’s Notable Growth in Small Business Development
Spartanburg, SC – It’s been a year since the Spartanburg County Council issued a staggering $6 million grant to initiate Power Up Spartanburg, a move that significantly bolstered small business development locally. CEO of One Spartanburg, Allen Smith had a simple motive – while Spartanburg is known for its numerous, large businesses, Smith wanted it to be just as notable for its support and growth of small ones.
A Year of Opportunities
When the initiative rolled into action last March, the ambition was to extend the opportunities to everyone, emphasizing women and minority-owned businesses. The county council recognized the fact that the strength of a thriving business ecosystem lies in a diverse palette of small businesses. As stated by Jay Jenkins, the Director of Small & Minority Business Development, creating a successful business environment where none existed was both their goal and their achievement.
Multiple Programs Under Power Up Initiative
The one-year-old initiative’s accomplishment can be seen in the launch of five efficient programs aimed at transforming Spartanburg into a hub of small business development. Among these progressive steps, Spartanburg welcomed the launch of three more programs on Monday, including the Grid. The Grid is designed to serve as a comprehensive one-stop shop for existing and aspiring Spartanburg-based businesses, providing information on how to start, grow, or even exit a business.
Small Businesses Benefit an Abundance of Resources
Small business owners have benefitted tremendously from Power Up. Amy Williamson, the owner of Blessed Blooms Flower Shop and Gifts, pointed out that her sales have consistently grown since the launch of the initiative in 2024. Power Up’s support, featuring over $2 million in grants and loans, expert advice, and quality education on how to run and grow a business, has empowered small businesses like hers with incredible growth opportunities.
The Next Step: Brick-And-Mortar Businesses
Power Up is setting its sights on fostering and facilitating the rise of more brick-and-mortar shops. The council aims to provide small businesses with the opportunity to own their commercial spaces, a move that potentially ensures even more sustainable growth for the businesses and the local economy.
An Inviting Conclusion
As Power Up Spartanburg confidently strides into its second year, it continues to inspire entrepreneurship in the region and contribute significantly to the local economy. The Power Up initiative has significantly changed the business landscape of Spartanburg, beckoning anyone looking to start or grow a business to consider this thriving, supportive ecosystem.
