2025 Annual SCRA Summit

Hundreds gathered at the South Carolina Research Authority’s annual summit in Columbia. Themed “Founders First,” the summit celebrates the hard work of founders who are fueling our state’s innovation economy. It was a time for SCRA-supported and funded entrepreneurs, startups, project leaders, and members of the state’s entrepreneurial ecosystem to come together, network, and learn more about how to grow their businesses successfully. The success of these startups leads to economic growth and the creation of new jobs in the state, which pay 71% higher than the state’s average.

The keynote speaker was Ted Tanner, a chief technology officer, founder, AI expert, and published author. He inspired the audience by encouraging everyone to embrace the benefits of AI while remaining vigilant in understanding the risks involved in unauthorized and unethical use.

Charleston-based Case Status was awarded Company of the Year, Jim Jacob of StoryButton was awarded Founder of the Year, and Hai Yao of Clemson University and the Medical University of South Carolina was awarded Applied Researcher of the Year. Read more.

2025 SCRA Summit Sponsors

Elite Sponsors

Premium Sponsors