APPLY TO BE A MEMBER COMPANY

The SC Launch Program creates the framework to fuel South Carolina’s innovation economy by providing the resources necessary to successfully launch and grow startups.
ABOUT THE PROGRAM

LEARN
Companies in the SC Launch program have access to exclusive regional networking events. Launch & Learn sessions are hosted with our Resource Partner Network and provide a casual learning environment as well as a structured lesson plan.

LAUNCH
Companies in Life Sciences, Information Technology and Advanced Manufacturing and Materials sectors that meet the requirements can apply for acceptance into the Program.

SCALE
The SC Launch Program provides access to funding sources such as grants, loans and investments.

GROW
SCRA connects entrepreneurs to the capital and resources needed at each stage of growth. Our Resource Partner Network provides access to business collaborations, executive mentors and meaningful support in key business areas.
BECOME A CLIENT COMPANY
Companies that are admitted into the SC Launch Program are referred to as Client Companies. A Regional Manager contacts each company that applies to review their application. You may be invited to present your company to the team in order to determine your acceptance into the Program.
To qualify for acceptance into the SC Launch Program, companies must:
- Be a South Carolina-based entity, located in SC, established and registered with the SC Secretary of State with at least 51% of payroll to employees within the state.
- Be an advanced-technology business in the following target sectors: life sciences, advanced manufacturing/materials or information technology.
- Have a protected intellectual property position or a distinct competitive advantage. Private investors like to see protectable, innovative technology and so do we. Your product should not be easy to replicate and should include intellectual property such as trade secrets, patents and trademarks.
- Have a high-impact business model. We look for start-ups that can grow into sizable businesses in the state, creating high-wage jobs and revenues.
- Have money invested by the principals and/or founders (not sweat equity!) and/or raised initial capital from others (sources include friends, family, banks, etc.).
SCRA and our SC Launch Program help entrepreneurs grow the innovation economy in South Carolina. Our team mentors innovative companies and fills the funding gap through loans and grant matching.
Additionally, SCRA builds and manages Innovation Centers – labs, offices and manufacturing facilities where research is conducted and new technologies are commercialized.