Did you know that this week is Global Entrepreneurship Week? If not, now you do. Columbia is ranked as one of the top five US markets for up-and-coming tech talent.

To celebrate the movers, shakers and doers that are Columbia’s entrepreneurs, we want to shine a light this morning on resources that are available in our city – starting with an event happening today hosted by GrowCo.

If you are a leader, entrepreneur, or “doer” in South Carolina, you don’t want to miss this. The Growth Summit is a one-day event that brings together the people that want to grow themselves, their business + their community.

Respecting the entrepreneurs | via GIPHY

What’s the Growth Summit? The fifth annual summit is a one-of-a-kind event that will cover topics from building a brand, to attracting talent, to raising capital – even during the coronavirus. The event is happening today at Segra Park’s Club Lounge, located above the Main Gate Concourse, from 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. and you can find more information about it here. _

So who’s who on the agenda? You might recognize a few names on the agenda, which you can check out here. During the event guests will be welcomed by Lou Kennedy of Nephron Pharmaceuticals, Sam McGuckin of TCube Solutions and John Carrington of ZVerse. Then sessions will continue with notable community members and business leaders from businesses such as REsimplifi, Van Robotics, GrowCo, Optus Bank, Diesel Laptops + more.

There is even an hour+ of time dedicated to networking and building strategic relationships.

Can’t make it to the Growth Summit? Don’t forget there are so many resources in Columbia for entrepreneurs. Here are just a few:

💡 Engenuity SC was created to provide a project management team to keep innovative and competitive projects moving forward in Columbia.

💡IT-oLogy provides educational resources, which are open to students and professionals, to set you and your business up for success.

💡SCRA connects startups to mentorship opportunities + funding.

💡 One Million Cups is a weekly, now virtual, meeting designed as a hub for entrepreneurs by entrepreneurs to come learn, grow, and connect with a supportive community.

💡 Innovate Columbia is the hub for all the resources from space, networking, funding or mentorship.

Calling all other University of South Carolina student entrepreneurs in training – there are resources for you too + ongoing events at UofSC, including more happening this week.

So, do you think you have what it takes? Here’s what you need to know to start a business in the City of Columbia.

Did you or a student you know enter SC Innovates? 15 finalists have been identified from the inaugural statewide innovation competition. Student teams from UofSC, MUSC, Columbia College, Wofford College, College of Charleston + Coastal Carolina University have made it to the final judging round, which is also scheduled for today from 5:30-7 p.m. Stay up-to-date on all SC Innovates updates here.