Cultivating Innovation: 21 South Carolina Agribusinesses Receive Grant Funding

South Carolina’s agribusiness sector continues to demonstrate remarkable innovation and resilience—and 21 agribusinesses across the state now have additional resources to help take their businesses to the next level.

The winners of the Cultivating Innovation in SC Agribusiness grant program were announced during a CAPSTONE Celebration held April 2 at the Phillips Market Center in West Columbia. The initiative is a collaborative effort involving the South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA), Wells Fargo Foundation, South Carolina Department of Agriculture, and the South Carolina Small Business Development Centers (SC SBDC).

2026 winners of the Cultivating Innovation in SC Agribusiness grant program

Selected from 89 applicants, the 21 agribusinesses participated in a comprehensive acceleration program designed to strengthen operations, encourage innovation, and position businesses for long-term growth. Participants completed a five-part webinar training series totaling more than 7.5 hours of instruction focused on innovation-related topics and business development strategies.

“Working with Wells Fargo and SCRA to support 21 South Carolina agribusinesses has been a true privilege—strengthening innovation, building relationships, and uplifting the people and communities they serve,” said SC SBDC Agribusiness Senior Consultant Jim Johnson

Through the program, participating businesses received grants ranging from $10,000 to $30,000, with a total of $435,000 awarded to support projects aimed at expanding operations, improving efficiency, and increasing competitiveness within South Carolina’s agricultural industry.

The SC SBDC played a key role in delivering instructional guidance and business support throughout the program. In addition to participating in webinars, cohort members benefited from networking opportunities and peer-to-peer learning experiences designed to help entrepreneurs share ideas, strengthen business practices, and accelerate growth.

The Capstone Celebration brought together approximately 135 attendees and featured remarks from several distinguished leaders, including South Carolina Commissioner of Agriculture Hugh Weathers, Wells Fargo Foundation President Darlene Goins, and SCRA Interim President and CEO Bill Kirkland.

According to SC SBDC Consultant Jim Johnson, the program’s impact will continue well beyond the awards ceremony. This summer, follow-up visits will be conducted with participating businesses to review project progress and measure outcomes tied to the initiative.

The Cultivating Innovation in SC Agribusiness program reflects the power of collaboration among public and private partners committed to strengthening South Carolina’s rural economy. Through training, mentorship, funding opportunities, and one-on-one business guidance, the initiative is helping agribusinesses innovate, grow, and create lasting economic impact across the state.

Complete List of Winners and Grant Amounts: