Propel Business Lab launches Greenwood entrepreneur cohort

A new cohort of the Propel Business Lab in Greenwood is opening up to bring business training to aspiring entrepreneurs in the county and region.

VisionGreenwood, in partnership with Lander University, is launching the cohort to provide  practical, community-driven business training directly to budding entrepreneurs, according to a news release.

Propel is a 12-week accelerator designed to help emerging entrepreneurs create sustainable, locally rooted businesses through hands-on education, mentorship and a pitch competition offering a $5,000 startup grant. Since its inception in 2022 in Barnwell,  the Propel Business Lab has graduated more than 90 entrepreneurs across the greater Central Savannah River Area region, including Allendale, Barnwell and Bamberg counties — contributing an estimated $3.4 million in annual economic impact, according to the news release.

“We are incredibly proud to bring the Propel Business Lab to Greenwood,” Kay Self, executive director of VisionGreenwood, said in the release. “This initiative reflects our commitment to economic vitality through entrepreneurship, and we are especially excited about the collaboration with Lander University and our continued partnership with the Propel team to provide a strong support system for local business builders.”

VisionGreenwood is an established community partner dedicated to making Greenwood the best place to live, work and raise a family.

“Entrepreneurship is a powerful engine for local innovation and job creation,” said Lloyd Willis, dean of the College of Business and Technology at Lander University. “Through this partnership, Lander is proud to support individuals who are investing in their own potential and in the future of Greenwood County.”

This new cohort is part of a growing regional collaboration that includes VisionGreenwood, Lander University, and the Propel Business Lab team. Together, this partnership is working to foster a more inclusive and accessible entrepreneurial ecosystem throughout South Carolina, the release said.

Participants in the program will meet weekly to develop a complete business plan, build marketing and financial literacy, and strengthen their digital presence,” the release stated. The program concludes with a live pitch competition where one participant will win a $5,000 grant to help launch or grow their business. Additionally, participants who complete the program will earn three hours of course credit from Lander University.

Applications for the Greenwood area cohort are now open and will close on Sept. 12. Entrepreneurs of all experience levels and business structures are encouraged to apply, the release stated. A $100 participation fee is required for those selected, covering all materials and six months of post-program mentorship.

s