One Voice Newsletter

What a great time it was at Washington Night this week – thank you to the more than 220 people who joined us!

We’re fortunate to have a congressional delegation that is eager to engage directly with our members, and we’re grateful for the strong relationships that give South Carolina’s business community a voice in the conversations happening in Washington.

And speaking of our federal delegation, don’t forget this Tuesday is runoff Election Day for the special Republican primary for U.S. Senate. Polls will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and we encourage you to get out and vote.

With Washington Night behind us, we’re turning our attention to what will be a very busy fall, and we look forward to seeing many of you at upcoming SCMC events across the state!

In This Issue

• • Four on Friday
  • Upcoming Events
  • Member Spotlight

Four on Friday

1. Gov. McMaster Signs State Budget with Major Wins for Business Community
Governor Henry McMaster signed the FY 2026-2027 state budget Monday, delivering several important wins for the business community. The budget includes $325 million in income tax relief, major investments in workforce training and technical education, and hundreds of millions of dollars for roads and bridge improvements. The General Assembly will return to Columbia on Tuesday to consider the Governor’s line-item vetoes. Read more about SCMC’s budget priorities and wins.

2. SC Manufacturing Leadership Program Welcomes Fourth Class of Industry Leaders
This week we announced the 2026-2027 class of the South Carolina Manufacturing Leadership Program, welcoming 22 rising leaders from manufacturers across the state. The year-long program, led by SCMC and SC Future Makers in partnership with USC’s Darla Moore School of Business, prepares high-potential professionals for greater leadership roles in the industry. Meet the new class.

3. SC 2027 Relentless Challenge Grant Applications Open Sept. 1
The South Carolina Department of Commerce will open applications September 1 for the 2027 Relentless Challenge Grant, offering funding to support entrepreneurship and small business programs across the state. Eligible applicants include South Carolina nonprofits, higher education institutions, and local governments, with awards of up to $75,000 depending on the funding track. Applications close September 30. Contact innovation@sccommerce.com for more information.

4. SCMEP Launches AI Accelerator for Manufacturing Program
SCMEP is launching a new six-month AI Accelerator for Manufacturing Program in October to help manufacturing leaders identify practical uses for AI, apply everyday tools, and implement solutions to real-world challenges. Learn more.