Small Business Owners Call for Passage of Small Business Tax Cut of 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Brandon Charochak
Phone: 717.315.9850
Email: Brandon.Charochak@myscmc.org
COLUMBIA, S.C. –South Carolina Manufacturers and Commerce (SCMC) today announced Bluffton’s Downtown Deli & Catering as the recipient of the 2026 SCMC Small Business of the Year Award during its annual Small Business Day at the South Carolina Statehouse.
Small Business owners also called for the passage of the Small Business Tax Cut of 2026, H. 5006. The legislation, which passed out of the Senate Finance Committee this week, would deliver meaningful relief by exempting the first $10,000 of business personal property from taxation while reducing unnecessary paperwork and compliance costs.
“From our largest cities to our tight-knit rural communities, small businesses show us what it means to build something unique, work with purpose and pride, and leave a legacy,” said SCMC President and CEO Sara Hazzard. “We are grateful for the impact small business owners have on our communities and our economy, and we are proud to stand with them in supporting policies that help them grow and succeed.”
Founded 23 years ago by Ryan and Leah McCarthy, Downtown Deli & Catering employs more than 100 people across its restaurant, catering, and event operations.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the company launched the Hungry Hearts Restaurant Relief Fund, raising more than $135,000 to support hospitality workers while generating revenue for local restaurants. It continues to support organizations, including the Child Abuse Prevention Association, Children’s Relief Fund, Bluffton Self Help, local schools, and serves as an outpost for The Church of Eleven22. The company also established a mental health and wellness emergency fund to provide employees access to professional counseling services.
The SCMC Small Business of the Year Award recognizes a South Carolina small business that demonstrates exceptional growth, customer focus, community engagement, leadership, and workforce empowerment. Additional details on the award, including the selection process and eligibility requirements, can be found here.
As part of the event, Lieutenant Governor Pamela S. Evette presented a proclamation recognizing South Carolina Small Business Day at the Statehouse. Legislative leadership, including Senate President Thomas Alexander and House Speaker Murrell Smith, participated in the event and discussed the importance of small business to South Carolina’s economy.
A photo of the winners can be found here.
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