Business Grants and Resources for Single Mothers in South Carolina
Business Startup, Small Business & Entrepreneurship Assistance and Grants for Single Mothers in South Carolina
Last updated: September 2025
South Carolina has real, practical help for starting or growing a business — but the best options depend on your timeline, credit, county, and industry. This guide cuts through noise and links you straight to official programs, real dollar amounts, deadlines, and phone numbers. It also flags common pitfalls so you don’t lose time or money.
Emergency help first
If a storm, fire, or other declared disaster has hit your business or income, do these steps now.
- If you need disaster money to keep operating: Apply for SBA Disaster Loans online and call the SBA Disaster Customer Service at 800-659-2955 for help with your application. You can also check if a local Business Recovery Center is open. Use the official SBA Disaster page listed in this guide. (scemd.org, sba.gov)
- If you need immediate local help and cleanup: Call South Carolina 211 for referrals, or the United Way SC debris hotline at 800-451-1954. (scemd.org)
- If your home was damaged and you can’t operate: Register at DisasterAssistance.gov or by phone at 800-621-3362 (FEMA). If approved, FEMA and SBA programs can work together. (scemd.org)
Quick help box
- Talk to a free, statewide business advisor today: South Carolina SBDC has centers across the state. Start with the nearest office in Columbia 803-777-1020, Charleston 843-740-6160, Greenville 864-370-1545, Myrtle Beach 843-349-4010, or Rock Hill 803-323-2283. They’ll review your plan, cash flow, and connect you to lenders and tax credits. (scsbdc.com)
- Women’s Business Centers for one‑on‑one help: CommunityWorks WBC (statewide) and Benedict College WBC (statewide, based in Columbia 803-705-4641) provide coaching, classes, and access‑to‑capital referrals. (communityworkscarolina.org, bcwbc.org)
- Quick, smaller loans: CommunityWorks Express Loans 1,000–1,000–10,000 at fixed rates up to 9.50%; Microbusiness 10,001–10,001–50,000 at about 8.75%; Small Business up to 350,000∗∗.CLIMBFundtypicallylends∗∗350,000**. CLIMB Fund typically lends **10,000–$250,000 statewide. (communityworkscarolina.org, climbfund.org)
- Government contracting help (free): SC APEX Accelerator, 701 Assembly St., Suite 4009, Columbia. Phone 803-521-2344. They prep you for set‑asides and certifications like WOSB, 8(a), HUBZone. (scaccelerator.org)
- State registration and licenses: Use the SC Business One Stop Business Wizard to find the exact state/local licenses and taxes you need; SCBOS Helpdesk 803-898-5690. (scbos.sc.gov)
- SBA South Carolina District Office: Columbia 803-765-5377; North Charleston 843-225-7430; Spartanburg/Duncan 803-253-3123. Appointment‑only. (sba.gov)
What we checked — and the gaps we fixed
We reviewed the top search results for “South Carolina small business grants for women” and similar terms. Most list national private grants with no SC‑specific details, and few provide direct phone numbers, state tax credits, or workforce reimbursements. This guide corrects that with:
- Direct contacts and phone numbers for SBDC, WBCs, APEX, SBA SC District, SCBOS, and CDFIs.
- Real figures and rules for SC tax credits, on‑the‑job training wage reimbursements, and microloan terms.
- Official links only (state, federal, and established nonprofits). (investopedia.com)
Start here: free, no‑pressure advisors who save you time and money
Start with the people who won’t try to sell you anything.
South Carolina Small Business Development Centers (SBDC)
Most important action: Book a free session to pressure‑test your business plan and cash flow, then get routed to the right lender or grant.
- Why this matters: SBDC advisors help you sharpen your projections, prepare lender‑ready packages, and connect you to programs like WOTC, STEP exporting, and SBIR/STTR resources. (scsbdc.com)
- How to book: Pick your nearest center from the SBDC locations directory. Examples: Columbia 803-777-1020, Charleston 843-740-6160, Greenville 864-370-1545, Myrtle Beach 843-349-4010, Rock Hill 803-323-2283. (scsbdc.com)
- Accessibility: SBDC provides reasonable accommodations upon request. Ask when booking. (scsbdc.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact the SBA SC District Office at 803-765-5377 and ask for a referral to another resource partner or lender match. (sba.gov)
Women’s Business Centers (WBC)
- CommunityWorks WBC (statewide): Training, one‑on‑one counseling, and events. Use them to prep for financing and certification. (communityworkscarolina.org)
- Benedict College WBC (statewide hub, Columbia): Call 803-705-4641 or email info@bcwbc.org for coaching, lender referrals, and help with WOSB certification steps. Address: 2601 Read St., Columbia. (bcwbc.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the SBA SC District Office for other SBA‑funded partners or SCORE mentors in your county at 803-765-5377. (sba.gov)
SCORE mentoring (free)
SCORE provides seasoned volunteer mentors and webinars. Examples: Charleston office 843-727-4778; Midlands office 803-765-5131; Upstate email for Greenville/Spartanburg listed on chapter pages. Book online. (business.greatersummerville.org, mapquest.com, score.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Try a different chapter or request a virtual mentor through SCORE’s national site, then circle back to SBDC for local programs. (score.org)
SC APEX Accelerator (government contracting, free)
If you want steady contract revenue, APEX gives one‑on‑one help on registrations, certifications, bid matching, proposal reviews, and marketing to agencies.
- Contact: 701 Assembly St., Suite 4009, Columbia; 803-521-2344; events calendar online. (scaccelerator.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your APEX counselor for an intro to the SBA’s certification portal or to the SC Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC) if you’re a veteran. VBOC SC at The Citadel 843-953-5867. (sba.gov)
Money you can actually get: loans, microloans, and lines of credit
Most “grants” for for‑profit businesses are competitive and limited. Plan on a blend of microloans, state incentives, and targeted grants.
South Carolina CDFIs serving startups and very small businesses
- CommunityWorks (statewide): Express Loans 1,000–1,000–10,000 up to 48 months at fixed rates up to 9.50%; Microbusiness 10,001–10,001–50,000 up to 60 months around 8.75%; Small Business up to 350,000∗∗.Start‑uploansupto∗∗350,000**. Start‑up loans up to **50,000 may be available depending on volume; required docs listed in the lender’s application checklist. (communityworkscarolina.org)
- CLIMB Fund (statewide): Typical loans 10,000–10,000–250,000; flexible underwriting, case‑by‑case terms. Application accepts emailed packages to info@climbfund.org; checklist online. (climbfund.org)
- SC Community Loan Fund (statewide): Mission‑driven CDFI financing small businesses, healthy food, housing, and community facilities. Ask about small business loan products and entrepreneur courses (LEAP). (sccommunityloanfund.org)
SBA‑backed microloans and 7(a) loans
- SBA Microloans: Up to 50,000∗∗,averageabout∗∗50,000**, average about **13,000 nationally; max term 7 years; interest generally 8–13%; cannot be used for real estate or debt payoff. You apply through SBA‑approved nonprofit microlenders like the CDFIs above. (sba.gov)
- SBA 7(a) loans: Versatile term loans up to $5,000,000 for working capital, equipment, real estate, or refinancing. SBA guarantees generally 75–85%; rate caps vary by loan size and method (for the 7(a) Working Capital Pilot, caps are base rate plus 3.0–6.5% depending on size). Apply through participating banks/credit unions; use SBA Lender Match if needed. (sba.gov)
- Timelines: Typical SBA loan approval to funding can take roughly 30–90 days depending on lender and deal type; microloans can be faster. Prepare complete documents to avoid delays. (investopedia.com)
Table — South Carolina startup financing options (snapshot)
| Program | Who it helps | Typical amounts/terms | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| CommunityWorks Express | New or very small businesses needing quick working capital | 1,000–1,000–10,000 up to 48 months, fixed rate up to 9.50%; 3% origination | Apply online; see required documents list |
| CommunityWorks Microbusiness | 1+ year in business, growth capital | 10,001–10,001–50,000, up to 60 months around 8.75%, 3% origination | Apply online; full financials required |
| CLIMB Fund | Startups and growing firms statewide | Most loans 10,000–10,000–250,000; flexible terms | Submit application and checklist to CLIMB Fund |
| SBA Microloan | Startups/childcare centers via approved microlenders | Up to $50,000; max term 7 years; rates 8–13% | Work with an SBA‑approved microlender |
| SBA 7(a) | Larger working capital or real estate | Up to $5,000,000; guaranty 75–85%; rate caps per SBA rules | Apply through SBA lenders; use Lender Match |
Reality check: CDFIs still underwrite for repayment. Expect to document income, cash flow, and have some collateral and a personal guarantee. For most lenders you’ll need: photo ID, 3–24 months of bank statements, most recent tax returns, a 12‑month cash flow projection, and your business plan. See CommunityWorks’ document list to prepare. (communityworkscarolina.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your SBDC advisor about other CDFIs (like CLIMB Fund) and city‑backed revolving funds. If you’re a tech startup, consider SCRA grants (below). (climbfund.org, scra.org)
Grants and non‑dilutive funds you can pursue in South Carolina
Grants are competitive and often reimburse expenses. Focus on targeted fits and use advisors to avoid missteps.
SC Department of Commerce — Export Incentives (STEP/SCOPE)
- What it does: Reimburses pre‑approved export expenses for eligible small SC companies (trade shows, US Commercial Service programs, web localization, translations, select missions). Awards depend on funds and application strength; rules change by year. Deadline windows vary — check current guide. (sccommerce.com, form.jotform.com)
Plan B: If you don’t export yet, SBDC and SC Commerce’s International Trade team can prep you for future cycles. (sccommerce.com)
SCRA grants for innovation‑driven startups
- Who qualifies: Tech startups accepted as SCRA Member Companies; invited to apply for specific grants. Amounts: Startup Grant up to 25,000∗∗;AcademicStartupupto∗∗25,000**; Academic Startup up to **25,000; Acceleration up to 50,000∗∗;FederalMatchingupto∗∗50,000**; Federal Matching up to **50,000; Demonstration and Relocation grant amounts vary. Rolling windows, invited applications. (scra.org)
Plan B: Free SBIR/STTR proposal help through 3Phase SC (state program), which improves your odds at “America’s Seed Fund.” (3phasesc.com)
USDA Rural Business Development Grants (RBDG)
- Who can apply: Towns, nonprofits, and tribes (not individual businesses). Your business can partner with a local nonprofit or municipality for rural projects. FY 2025 SC deadline was February 28, 2025. Expect a new annual cycle; contact USDA SC to plan now. Email Ronneshia.Green@usda.gov and Tim.Ellis@usda.gov. Address: 1835 Assembly St., Suite 1007, Columbia. (rd.usda.gov)
Plan B: If you’re a rural business needing capital now, work with your SBDC to identify CDFI loans paired with state credits (below). (scsbdc.com)
Tax credits and incentives that act like cash
These don’t put cash in your hand immediately, but they lower your tax bill and free up cash. Pair them with microloans.
South Carolina Angel Investor Credit
- What it is: A nonrefundable income tax credit equal to 35% of qualified investments in an SCDOR‑qualified business. Credit per individual capped at 100,000∗∗peryear;overallprogramcap∗∗100,000** per year; overall program cap **5,000,000 per year. Apply via MyDORWAY after the investment and by December 31; carry forward up to 10 years. Current statute applies to investments made through 2025. (dor.sc.gov)
Tip: This helps if you’re raising money — share SCDOR’s page with potential investors to sweeten the deal. (dor.sc.gov)
Jobs Tax Credits (JTC) — including Small Business JTC
- What it is: Credits for creating new full‑time jobs, with higher amounts in less‑developed counties. Base annual credit per job by county tier: Tier I 1,500∗∗;TierII∗∗1,500**; Tier II **2,750; Tier III 20,250∗∗;TierIV∗∗20,250**; Tier IV **25,000. Small businesses (< 99 employees worldwide) may qualify with only 2 new jobs, not 10. Multi‑county industrial park sites can add $1,000 per job per year. (sccommerce.com)
Plan B: If you’re not yet hiring, set a 12‑month hiring plan with SBDC so you can time your jobs to maximize credits. (scsbdc.com)
Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC)
- What it is: Federal income tax credit of 1,200–1,200–9,600 per eligible new hire in targeted groups; must submit IRS Form 8850 and ETA 9061 within 28 days of the employee’s start date to SCDEW for certification. No cap on number of eligible hires. (dew.sc.gov)
Apprenticeship credit (state)
- What it is: State tax credit of $1,000 per registered apprentice employed at least 7 months of the tax year, claimable up to 4 years per apprentice. Check current instructions before filing. (scworksupstate.com)
Table — SC tax credits quick look
| Credit | Value | Key rules | Where to start |
|---|---|---|---|
| Angel Investor | 35% of a qualified investment; max $100,000 per investor per year | Investments through 2025; apply on MyDORWAY by Dec 31; 10‑year carryforward | SCDOR Angel Investor Credit page |
| Jobs Tax Credit | Tier I 1,500∗∗;TierII∗∗1,500**; Tier II **2,750; Tier III 20,250∗∗;TierIV∗∗20,250**; Tier IV **25,000 per job, per year | Small Business JTC available for firms with < 99 employees; multi‑county park add‑on $1,000 | SC Commerce incentive overview |
| WOTC | 1,200–1,200–9,600 per eligible new hire | File within 28 days of start date for certification | SCDEW WOTC page |
| Apprenticeship | $1,000 per apprentice, up to 4 years | Apprentice must work 7 months in tax year | See SC DOR guidance/your tax pro |
Hire help without breaking the bank: wage reimbursements and training dollars
On‑the‑Job Training (OJT) reimbursements via SC Works
- What it covers: Reimburses a percentage of a new hire’s wages during training. In the WorkLink region example: 75% of wages for employers with 1–250 employees; 50% for employers with >250 employees; training period up to 480 hours (about 12 weeks). Local policies vary by region. Contact your local SC Works center. Example contact for WorkLink: Lillian Cleveland 864-506-1055. (worklinkweb.com)
Plan B: If OJT isn’t open in your region, ask about “B2B (Boots to Business) Reboot” hiring pipelines, pre‑screening, or short‑term work experiences to try out candidates with some wage support. (sba.gov)
Incumbent Worker Training (IWT)
- What it does: Helps pay to upskill existing employees to avoid layoffs or add new services/tech. Employer match depends on size: 10% match (≤ 50 employees), 25% (51–100), 50% (> 100). Some boards cap total awards (example: $15,000 per business in Lower Savannah area). Apply during your region’s open window. (scworkstrident.org, lowersavannahwda.org)
Plan B: If IWT is closed, talk to your technical college workforce team about short, affordable credential programs and any tuition discounts. Keep receipts for potential future reimbursements. (midlandstech.edu)
Register your business the right way (and avoid scams)
Most important action: Use only official .gov sites for filings.
- Form your LLC or corporation: File with the South Carolina Secretary of State (online or by mail). Filing fee for Articles of Organization (LLC) is 110∗∗;aCertificateofExistence,ifneeded,is∗∗110**; a Certificate of Existence, if needed, is **10. The Business Entities Online portal lets you file and request documents. Secretary of State Business Filings: 803-734-2158. (sos.sc.gov)
- Local business license: South Carolina has no statewide business license. Licenses are issued by cities/counties. Use SCBOS’s Business Wizard, then contact your city or county to apply and renew annually. SCBOS Helpdesk 803-898-5690. (scbos.sc.gov)
- Retail license and taxes: If selling products, register for a Retail License and appropriate tax accounts with SCDOR via the Business Wizard. (scbos.sc.gov)
- Scam alerts: The SC Secretary of State reports solicitations selling overpriced “certificates” and copies. Legitimate Certificate of Existence costs $10 from the SOS website. Report suspicious mailers to the SOS Investigations Division. (sos.sc.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Live chat with SCBOS or call 803-898-5690 to confirm your exact steps, then book SBDC to check compliance. (scbos.sc.gov)
Table — Registration steps and fees (quick view)
| Step | Typical cost | Where |
|---|---|---|
| File LLC Articles of Organization | $110 | SC Secretary of State Business Entities Online |
| Certificate of Existence (if requested by bank) | $10 | SC SOS Document Request |
| Local business license | Varies by city/county | Use SCBOS Business Wizard to find your jurisdiction |
| Retail License / Tax Accounts | Varies | Register with SCDOR via SCBOS Business Wizard |
Government contracting: steady customers and certifications
- Get help now: SC APEX Accelerator, 803-521-2344, provides free one‑on‑one help on SAM.gov, SBA certifications, bid searches, capability statements, and proposal reviews. (scaccelerator.org)
- Women‑Owned Small Business (WOSB/EDWOSB): Apply through the SBA’s MySBA Certifications portal. SBA has offered administrative extensions for some renewals and posts updates there. Keep records current and report material changes within 30 days. For help, call the SBA certifications help line 866-443-4110. (certifications.sba.gov, sba.gov)
- Veteran‑owned? South Carolina Veterans Business Outreach Center (The Citadel) provides training and counseling; phone 843-953-5867. (sba.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask APEX to refer you to the nearest federal small business specialist or to an agency‑specific small business office that buys what you sell. (scaccelerator.org)
Exporting and innovation pathways (high‑impact options)
- Export Incentives: Reimbursement for specific export activities (STEP/SCOPE). Read the current program guide and email export@sccommerce.com before you spend. (sccommerce.com)
- 3Phase SC (free SBIR/STTR support): Coaching on registrations, budgets, and proposals for federal R&D grants. Great for tech or product startups seeking non‑dilutive funding. (3phasesc.com)
- SCRA Membership and Grants: If you’re innovation‑driven, seek SCRA Member Company status; invited grants include up to 25,000∗∗Startup/Academic,∗∗25,000** Startup/Academic, **50,000 Acceleration or Federal Matching, plus Demonstration/Relocation support. (scra.org)
Real‑world example: SBA SC reports Greenville‑based Boyd Cycling used the STEP program to expand exports of bicycle wheels — a useful model for niche manufacturers. (sba.gov)
Directory: free advising and contracting help (save this)
| Resource | What they do | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| SC SBDC (statewide) | Free advising, lender packaging, research | Columbia 803-777-1020; Charleston 843-740-6160; Greenville 864-370-1545; Myrtle Beach 843-349-4010; Rock Hill 803-323-2283 |
| CommunityWorks WBC | Training and individualized counseling | See site for hours |
| Benedict College WBC | Statewide women’s business hub (Columbia) | 803-705-4641; 2601 Read St. |
| SCORE | Free mentoring | Charleston 843-727-4778; Midlands 803-765-5131; Upstate chapter contacts online |
| SC APEX Accelerator | Government contracting counseling | 803-521-2344; 701 Assembly St., Suite 4009 |
| SBA SC District Office | Funding and certifications help; referrals | Columbia 803-765-5377; North Charleston 843-225-7430; Spartanburg/Duncan 803-253-3123 |
| SCBOS Business Wizard | Find your licenses and taxes | Helpdesk 803-898-5690 |
CDFIs and mission lenders in South Carolina
| Lender | Typical products | Snapshot of amounts/rates | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| CommunityWorks | Express, Microbusiness, Small Business loans | 1,000–1,000–350,000; Express up to 10,000∗∗(fixedupto∗∗9.5010,000** (fixed up to **9.50%**); Micro **10,001–50,000∗∗(about∗∗8.7550,000** (about **8.75%**); Start‑Up up to **50,000 as available | See lender page |
| CLIMB Fund | Flexible micro/small business loans | Typically 10,000–10,000–250,000; terms set case‑by‑case | Application checklist posted |
| SC Community Loan Fund | Small business and community loans; entrepreneur courses | Amounts vary by product | Learn more online |
Diverse Communities — targeted help and inclusion
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: The SBA provides inclusion resources and points to the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce for LGBTQ‑owned business certification that can open corporate supplier doors. Use SBDC/WBC for lender prep and the SBA equity resources to find programs. (sba.gov)
- Single Mothers with Disabilities or with Disabled Children: South Carolina Vocational Rehabilitation can support training, work‑based learning, OJT, and follow‑along services for disabled jobseekers and may coordinate with employers using tax credits like WOTC. Call your local VR office via 803-896-6500 or see VR’s employer services for training options. Able SC also offers skills trainings and employer inclusion resources. (scvrd.net, able-sc.org)
- Veteran single mothers: The VBOC at The Citadel (Charleston) serves veterans and military spouses with training, counseling, and Boots to Business. Phone 843-953-5867. Pair with APEX for certifications and government contracting. (sba.gov)
- Immigrant and refugee single moms: Use SCBOS Business Wizard for compliance, SBDC for lender‑ready plans, and WBCs for coaching. The SBA Equity Initiative outlines steps to reduce access barriers; ask partners about interpreters if needed. (scbos.sc.gov, sba.gov)
- Tribal‑specific resources: For minority business certification in state procurement, contact the SC Division of Small and Minority Business Contracting and Certification (SMBCC) — now part of the SC Commission for Minority Affairs — for MBE certification and supplier diversity guidance. Phone 803-734-5044 or 803-734-5010. (smbcc.sc.gov, cma.sc.gov)
- Rural single moms: Pair a CDFI microloan with USDA programs (through your town or a nonprofit) and leverage SC Works OJT wage reimbursements to hire your first employee. Get SBDC help with cash‑flow timing for seasonal revenue. (rd.usda.gov, worklinkweb.com)
- Single fathers: All resources above apply equally; WBCs also serve men and can still be a good entry point for first‑time founders. (communityworkscarolina.org)
- Language access: Ask SBDC/WBC/SBA to note your language needs when scheduling; many partners can arrange interpretation for counseling and classes. (sba.gov)
Resources by region (who to call)
| Region | Top contacts | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Upstate (Greenville, Spartanburg, Anderson) | SBDC Greenville 864-370-1545; SBDC Spartanburg 864-592-6318; SCORE Upstate (Greenville/Spartanburg) per chapter page; CommunityWorks (WBC + lending) | Use WorkLink OJT for wage reimbursements in Anderson/Oconee/Pickens (contact 864-506-1055). (scsbdc.com, worklinkweb.com) |
| Midlands (Columbia, Lexington, Sumter) | SBDC Columbia 803-777-1020; Benedict College WBC 803-705-4641; SCORE Midlands 803-765-5131; SC APEX 803-521-2344 | SCBOS Helpdesk 803-898-5690 for license/tax steps. (scsbdc.com, bcwbc.org, mapquest.com, scaccelerator.org, scbos.sc.gov) |
| Lowcountry (Charleston, Beaufort, Jasper) | SBDC Charleston 843-740-6160; SCORE Charleston 843-727-4778; CLIMB Fund lending | Consider city revolving funds like Goose Creek’s small business loan program (local eligibility applies). (scsbdc.com, business.greatersummerville.org, climbfund.org, businessinthecreek.com) |
| Pee Dee & Grand Strand (Florence, Horry, Georgetown) | SBDC Myrtle Beach 843-349-4010; Georgetown satellite 843-606-0116 | Use SBDC to prep for seasonal cash flow; explore WOTC for hospitality hires. (scsbdc.com) |
Quick reference cheat sheet
| If you need | Do this first | Why this works |
|---|---|---|
| Funds in under 30 days | Apply for CommunityWorks Express 1,000–1,000–10,000 and ask SBDC to review your cash flow before you submit | Fewer documents and faster decisions help bridge gaps while you build lender history |
| 10,000–10,000–50,000 to launch or expand | Prepare a full package for a CDFI (CommunityWorks, CLIMB Fund), or an SBA Microloan via a microlender | CDFIs and SBA microloans are built for smaller amounts and early‑stage businesses |
| Help hiring your first employee | Ask SC Works about OJT reimbursements of 50–75% of wages for up to 480 hours | Offsets training costs to reduce risk on your first hires |
| Tax savings this year | Screen all new hires for WOTC (1,200–1,200–9,600 each); check Small Business JTC if adding 2 jobs | These credits directly reduce taxes and improve cash |
| Export or tech grant | Email export@sccommerce.com about STEP/SCOPE; contact 3Phase SC for SBIR/STTR; consider SCRA membership | Reimburses export costs and funds R&D startups without giving up equity |
Application checklist (bring this to your first lender or advisor meeting)
- Valid photo ID and proof of address
- EIN confirmation letter (IRS)
- Business plan with 12‑month cash flow and break‑even
- Last 2 years of personal tax returns; if operating, last 2 years of business returns
- Year‑to‑date profit & loss and balance sheet (if operating)
- Most recent 3–6 months of bank statements (personal and business)
- Articles of Organization/Operating Agreement (LLC)
- Use of funds list with quotes/invoices
- Resume and any required licenses or permits
- Childcare owners: include DSS licensing status and staffing plan if applicable
- If applying to CommunityWorks: confirm specific items like Sources & Uses, Personal Financial Statement — they publish a detailed list for Express/Microbusiness. (communityworkscarolina.org)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Assuming free grants will cover startup costs: Most grants here reimburse expenses or target exporters/innovators. Build a plan around microloans + tax credits. (sccommerce.com, scra.org)
- Missing WOTC’s 28‑day filing window: You must submit forms within 28 days of the new hire’s start date or you lose the credit. Set a hiring checklist. (dew.sc.gov)
- Paying third parties for state documents: Certificates and copies are much cheaper directly from the Secretary of State ($10 for a Certificate of Existence). Ignore mail solicitations that look “official.” (sos.sc.gov)
- Skipping local licenses: SC has no statewide license; many cities and counties require one. Use the SCBOS Wizard. (scbos.sc.gov)
- Not using wage reimbursements: OJT can cover 50–75% of wages during training. Ask your local SC Works board. (worklinkweb.com)
FAQs — South Carolina, single‑mother edition (state‑specific)
- **Where can I get a small loan under 10,000∗∗quickly?∗∗StartwithCommunityWorksExpress(∗∗10,000** quickly?** Start with CommunityWorks Express (**1,000–$10,000, fixed up to 9.50%). Have bank statements, ID, and a simple plan ready. (communityworkscarolina.org)
- Is there a real government grant just for single mothers to start a business?
No state grant exists specifically for single mothers. Real options include export reimbursements (STEP/SCOPE), innovation grants via SCRA, and rural development grants to nonprofits that may fund shared facilities/equipment. Pair these with microloans and state tax credits. (sccommerce.com, scra.org, rd.usda.gov) - How much can an SBA Microloan cover and how fast is it?
Up to 50,000∗∗;average∗∗50,000**; average **13,000; terms up to 7 years at roughly 8–13%. Timelines vary by microlender; microloans are often faster than bank 7(a). (sba.gov) - What tax credits can help me hire this year?
Screen new hires for WOTC (1,200–1,200–9,600 each). If you create 2 or more jobs and have < 99 employees, the Small Business Jobs Tax Credit may apply; base amounts per job range from 1,500∗∗to∗∗1,500** to **25,000 depending on county tier. (dew.sc.gov, sccommerce.com) - Can I get paid back for export marketing?
Maybe. The Export Incentives Program reimburses pre‑approved export expenses for eligible SC small businesses. Amounts vary yearly; read the current guide and apply before spending. (sccommerce.com) - Who helps me get WOSB certified?
Use the SBA’s MySBA Certifications portal and contact the CommunityWorks or Benedict College WBC for prep. For federal contracting strategy, SC APEX is your go‑to (803-521-2344). (certifications.sba.gov, communityworkscarolina.org, bcwbc.org, scaccelerator.org) - Are there state programs if I’m in a rural county?
Yes — pair CDFI microloans with county‑tiered Jobs Tax Credits (Tier III/IV values are higher) and ask your town/county to sponsor an application for USDA RBDG infrastructure or shared equipment. (sccommerce.com, rd.usda.gov) - How long does an SBA 7(a) loan take?
Plan for 30–90 days from application to funding depending on lender and loan size. Prepare complete documents to avoid back‑and‑forth delays. (investopedia.com) - What if I want government contracts instead of retail customers?
Call SC APEX 803-521-2344 for a readiness check and free bid‑matching. If you’re a veteran or spouse, VBOC at The Citadel 843-953-5867 adds training. (scaccelerator.org, sba.gov) - I’m overwhelmed — who will just tell me exactly what I need to file?
Use SCBOS Business Wizard, then confirm with SBDC. SCBOS Helpdesk 803-898-5690 can answer license/tax questions. (scbos.sc.gov)
Real‑world example
- Exporting with help: SBA SC highlights Greenville entrepreneurs who used SC Commerce STEP funds to sell bicycle wheels abroad. This shows how small, targeted reimbursements plus coaching can open new markets without huge budgets. Ask SBDC to align your product and pricing with buyers first, then apply. (sba.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from South Carolina Department of Commerce, South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce, South Carolina Secretary of State, SCDOR, SBA, USDA, and established nonprofits/CDFIs.
This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
Last verified: September 2025, next review: April 2026.
Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.
Disclaimer
Important: Program rules, funding levels, deadlines, and phone numbers can change quickly. Always confirm details on the official websites and with the agencies linked here before you spend money or submit applications. This guide is for general information only and is not legal, tax, or financial advice. For your security, use only official .gov and trusted nonprofit sites linked in this guide, keep your device updated, and avoid paying third parties for government forms available at no or low cost. (sos.sc.gov)
Tables index (for quick scanning)
- Startup financing options: CDFIs and SBA loans
- SC tax credits quick look: Angel Investor, JTC, WOTC, Apprenticeship
- Free advising directory: SBDC, WBCs, SCORE, APEX, SBA, SCBOS
- Registration steps and fees: SOS, SCBOS, SCDOR
- Regional contacts: Upstate, Midlands, Lowcountry, Pee Dee/Grand Strand
If you need personal guidance, start with SBDC or a WBC today — the calls are free, and they’ll map the fastest, safest path for your situation. (scsbdc.com, communityworkscarolina.org)
🏛️More South Carolina Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in South Carolina
- 📋 Assistance Programs
- 💰 Benefits and Grants
- 👨👩👧 Child Support
- 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 🎓 Education Grants
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
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- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
