ANNUAL REPORT 2022-2023
FROM THE CHAIR 2023 was a BIG year for the Columbia
Chamber and for the Midlands region. With the announcements of Scout Motors and Cirba Solutions, Richland County has become the hotspot for workforce development. At the same time, the Chamber welcomed more new Partners than any other time in its 120-year history. The secret is out: Columbia is growing. With this in mind, the Chamber launched a new initiative this year called Forward Together. The purpose was three-fold: help develop the talent pipeline and ensure a growing regional workforce, expand programming and opportunities for minority businesses, and enhance local and state advocacy to ensure the voice of the business community is heard. The work of Forward Together began September 1, 2023 and will continue to grow our region for the next three years. The past year saw the growth of our events programming, as well. From Small Business Breakout to the Chamber Golf Classic, Partners were able to network in fun, engaging locations. Our Issues Forum changed format to become Breakfast Briefing, which brought together Partners over a hot breakfast to discuss important public policy issues. Our Military Outreach Group regularly saw over 120 guests who joined the leaders of all of our regional military installations for updates. Finally, our Leadership Columbia program celebrated 50 years of leadership development and toasted over 2,200 alumni. To close out the fiscal year, I’m proud to announce that the Columbia Chamber received official accreditation status from the Carolinas Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives. This year was a transformative one, and we are just getting started. On behalf of the Board of Directors and staff, thank you for your support of the Columbia Chamber.
JOHN GRIGGS 2022-23 CHAIRMAN 2
COLUMBIACHAMBER
BOARD OF DIRECTORS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE John Griggs
Jean Cecil Frick
Macon Lovelace
PAST CHAIR NP STRATEGY
PUBLIC POLICY COMMITTEE CHAIR TRINITY PARTNERS
Karen Jenkins
Peyton Bryant
Chris Zimmer
CHAIR SYNOVUS
PARTNER RELATIONS COMMITTEE CHAIR TRINITY PARTNERS
CHAIR-ELECT, MMBA CHAIR
KRJ CONSULTING, LLC
FINANCE COMMITTEE CHAIR TRUIST
James Bennett
FIRST CITIZENS BANK
Brian Boyer
BOYER CONSTRUCTION
David Lockwood Holt Chetwood
FIRST CITIZENS BANK
Scott McClelland
AT&T
ELLIOTT DAVIS, LLC
Ron Harvey
Mike Farmer John Cadena
COLLIERS
Terrance Ford
GLOBAL CORE STRATEGIES & CONSULTING
TD BANK
Robert Rhodes
BLUECROSS BLUESHIELD OF SOUTH CAROLINA
DOMINION ENERGY
BOARD COMMITTEE CHAIRS DIPLOMAT LINK CHAIR
Anita Murphy
GROW FINANCIAL FEDERAL CREDIT UNION
LEADERSHIP COLUMBIA ADVISORY BOARD CHAIR
David Looper
FURNITURE SERVICES, INC.
LEADERSHIP COLUMBIA ALUMNI ASSOCIATION ADVISORY BOARD CHAIR
NORTHEAST CONNECTION CHAIR
STEWART
SMALL BUSINESS COUNCIL CHAIR
MILITARY OUTREACH GROUP CHAIR
JONES, MCADEN & ASSOCIATES
Frank Mundy
Ann Thomason
ERA WILDER REALTY, INC.
Adam Jones
Brian Taylor
MILLER VALENTINE CONSTRUCTION
TALENT AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE CHAIR
Laura McKinney
FIRST COMMUNITY BANK
BOARD MEMBERS Dr. Michael Amiridis UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA
John Boyd
HAYNSWORTH SINKLER BOYD, P.A.
Caleb Buchanan PRISMA HEALTH
Susan Cohen
SOUTH CAROLINA RESTAURANT AND LODGING ASSOCIATION
Bill Duda
OGLETREE DEAKINS
Brett Edwards
Will Holmes
Bill Ellen
Lynn Hutto
ENTERPRISE HOLDINGS EXPERIENCE COLUMBIA SC
FIRST CAROLINA BANK LIH CONSULTING
JT McLawhorn
COLUMBIA URBAN LEAGUE, INC.
Heather Mitchell
Larry Salley
GREATER COLUMBIA COMMUNITY RELATIONS COUNCIL
Nicole B. Scott
Sanders Tate
MCMILLAN PAZDAN SMITH ARCHITECTURE
Mark Westmoreland
John Ewing
Matt Kennell
BOUDREAUX
Lindsey Spires Griffin
Bill Kirkland
Brad Shank
Nicole Hendricks Woods
BANK OF AMERICA
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA
LEXINGTON MEDICAL CENTER
Punam Patel
Rick Shippey
Montague Laffitte
Brad Wright
Michael Gula
KROGER FOODS
COLUMBIA METROPOLITAN AIRPORT
MAIN STREET DISTRICT
SOUTHSTATE BANK
Lara Lott Moore
MUSC HEALTH
Dr. Ronald Rhames
BANK OF AMERICA
COLUMBIA FIREFLIES MARK ANTHONY BREWING
WELLS FARGO
ENCOMPASS HEALTH
BURR & FORMAN, LLP
MIDLANDS TECHNICAL COLLEGE
ANNUAL REPORT 2022-23
YOUR COLUMBIACHAMBER The Columbia Chamber welcomed 233 NEW Chamber Partners during the 2022-2023 fiscal year.
WELCOME TO OUR NEWEST PARTNERS KEYSTONE
B&W Trailer Rentals Boyer Construction Carolina Ale House Columbia-Harbison Color World Painting of Columbia, SC Extra Mile Globalpundits, Inc. JT’s Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Lexington JT’s Dodgeland of Columbia JT’s Kia Motors Kamo Facilities Solutions and Supplies Lending Path Mortgage Midlands Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery, PA Optus Bank Pratt Industries SGRX Stanley Steemer Sterlite Technologies Inc. Sullivan Management Takosushi TruVista Communications TSAChoice, Inc.
IMPACT
160 Driving Academy 1-800 Plumber + Air of Columbia Behaviors A Go-Go Aging with Flair, LLC AI NAUTICS Allstate – Chantell Summers Aloft Columbia Downtown American Portfolios Big Dan’s Car Wash California Dreaming
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Carolina Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine – Forest Acres Main Office CarolinaPower Casino Party Aces Coldwell Banker Lexington – Forrest Ryan Collins Family and Elder Law Group Columbia Smiles Downtown Communities In Schools of South Carolina Copart CRM Services Crumbl Cookies Harbison Delta Dental Dilmar Oil Company Doctors Care Urgent Care (UCI Medical Affiliates) East Bay Deli – Killian Rd. East Bay Deli – Main St. Equipment Share Erika Dawkins Communications Family Connection of SC Flair Hair Lounge Gatlic Group HealthSpeak, LLC Healthy Learners Heathwood Hall Episcopal School Homewood Suites Honey Baked Ham Company – Two Notch Rd. Hotwire Communications Iron Hill Brewery and Restaurant Jamison Consultants, LLC Integrated HealthCare Services JAN-PRO of Columbia Knowledge Perk Coffee Company Kroger Life Care Center of Columbia Logistic Dynamics Columbia Lumos Fiber Midlands Mediation Center Monica Motivates OTR Media Group Palmetto Medical Coding Academy LLC Peloton Partners LLC Primerica/PFS Investments Inc. Prisma Health Urgent Care Professional Printers QCKinetix R. Bettis Construction Residence Inn Columbia Northwest/Harbison Residence Inn West Columbia/Lexington Ride Jaunt, LLC Ruby Sunshine
Rumsey Construction and Restoration Self-Help Credit Union Senior Life Insurance Company Sigma Theta Alpha Military Sorority, Inc. Solutions for Living at Home, A Ministry of Still Hopes Something Borrowed South Carolina National Guard South Carolina State Library Southeast Insurance Group Starboard Communications Starbucks – Lincoln St. Still Hopes Episcopal Retirement Community Sully’s Steamers The Seals The Unumb Center for Neurodevelopment Toyota – Peter Boulware Transport Care Services United Bank Veritas Health Group Victory Family Medicine, LLC Vision Wealth Advisors, LLC Visiting Angels Wax Therapy LLC Waxing the City
CORNERSTONE
32 Dental Allstate - Kimberly Washington Ambient Media Anchor Investment Management Azalea Coffee Bar Berkshire Hathaway Homeservices Midlands Real Estate Black Tie Bartending B-Liberty Builders, LLC Bluebird Property Management, LLC Boy Scouts of America, Indian Waters Council Brett Groller Coaching Cambria Columbia Downtown - The Vista Capital City Professional Services, LLC Carolina Scorpion Women’s Tackle Football Team CerebroLogix, LLC City Year Columbia Civitan Club of Columbia Clements Cleaning Service Coal Powered Filmworks Columbia Development Group, LLC Columbia Jewish Federation Comfort Keepers Construction Dynamics, Inc.
Curated with Lynn Davis Tax Consulting & Financial Services LLC Diesel Laptops DiPrato’s ESNTL Headshots Federation Center of the Blind First Heritage Mortgage FIT Columbia Forest Lake Country Club Forward Counseling and Consulting Freight Forwarding Express, Inc. Fulcrum Risk Solutions Georgia-Pacific Gibson & Associates, Inc. Gypsum & Rye Homewatch CareGivers of Columbia Hyatt Place Columbia Downtown/Vista Jabber & Isaac, PA Jill Smith and Associates Counseling Joseph C. Logistics Lourie Life & Health Meaningful Escapes Boutique Travel Agency, LLC Moore Beauston & Woodham LLP MPA Strategies Murphy and Grantland, P.A. Network in Action - Southeast Philly Pretzel Factory Precious Jewels Medical & Health Services, LLC Raising Columbia SC Ronald McDonald House Charities Rosewood Market and Deli Safe Harbor Access Systems Saluda’s Restaurant Sandhills Bookkeeping Seed Architecture, LLC Selling Soda City, Real Estate Sales & Consulting Simon Wray Group Sour and Salt Bakery South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control South Carolina Hospital Association South Carolina Uplift Community Outreach St. Andrews University Columbia - A Branch of Webber International University Stanley Martin Homes Steel Hands Brewing Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe T-D Legal Nurse Consultant
In 2023, The Columbia Chamber launched a new initiative aimed at growing the Midlands region. FORWARD TOGETHER is a three-year program of work designed to address the most pressing opportunities and challenges in the Midlands, with a focus on three strategic priorities where the Chamber will place enhanced focus and greater resources. 1. Talent/Workforce development 2. Supporting and growing women, minority and veteran-owned businesses 3. Enhancing local and state advocacy efforts
POWER PARTNERS* VISIONARY
CHAIRMAN
Forward Together was launched September 1, 2023 in partnership with the following investors: Abacus Planning Group Aflac AgFirst Farm Credit Union Bank of America BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina Boudreaux Colonial Life Cool Care Heating, Air, Plumbing & Refrigeration Dominion Energy Elliott Davis, LLC ENVIRO AgScience, Inc. First Citizens Bank First Community Bank Furniture Services, Inc. Garvin Design Group Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd, P.A. Intellisystems Karen’s Kitchen and Catering KRJ Consulting, LLC LS3P Mark Anthony Brewing, Inc.
The Assignment Agency The Blood Connection The Glow Factory The Hive Community Circle The Shiver Group, LLC The T.U.C.K Project The Therapy Place The Wheeler Group THS Constructors Total Comfort Solutions Valanthropy Villa Tronco Words First
Market on Main Maynard Nexsen PC McCrory Construction Company McEntire Produce McMillan Pazdan Smith Architecture Mungo Homes MUSC Health Midlands Division Ogletree, Deakins, Nash, Smoak & Stewart, PC Palmetto Health Credit Union Richardson, Plowden and Robinson P.A. Security Federal Bank Sound & Images Southeastern Freight Lines SouthState Bank Stewart Synovus Terminix Service, Inc. Trinity Partners Truist W.O. Blackstone & Co.
COMMUNITY PARTNER
South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce – SC Works Midlands United States Department of Labor Wage and Hour Division
*Not all 2022-2023 new Partners listed
AMBASSADOR Aflac Amazon AT&T Burr & Forman, LLP Colonial Life Combined Insurance ECS Southeast, LLP Founders Federal Credit Union
Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd, P.A. Maynard Nexsen PC Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough, LLP NP Strategy Octapharma Plasma, Inc Palmetto GBA
Southeastern Freight Lines University of South Carolina Verizon Westinghouse Electric Company Willoughby Humphrey & D’Antoni, P.A.
EXECUTIVE 24/7 Health & Fitness Center 42 Magnolia AECOM Technical Services, Inc. AgFirst Farm Credit Bank Allegiance Staffing Atlantic at Parkridge Baker Commercial Properties, LLC Belk Bennet at BullStreet BHE GT&S Charter Communications – Spectrum Reach Chernoff Newman Cirba Solutions Colliers Columbia Fireflies Columbia VA Healthcare System Cool Care Heating, Air, Plumbing & Refrigeration Delta Hotel by Marriott Columbia Northeast Elliott Davis, LLC
Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Columbia Enterprise Leasing Company Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Columbia Downtown First Community Bank First Reliance Bank Fisher Phillips LLP Flex Fluor Corporation FN America, LLC GMM Insurance Good Life Cafe Hanabi Hibachi & Sushi Haven Home Foundation Holiday Inn Express & Suites Columbia-Fort Jackson, an IHG Hotel Holiday Inn Express Columbia Two Notch Icon on Taylor Johnson Food Services
Lamar Advertising Lauren Ridge LTC Hospitality Services Marriott Columbia McMillan Pazdan Smith Architecture Modern Turf Sod & Landscape Supply Moxy Hotel Columbia Mungo Homes NAI Columbia, LLC Ogletree, Deakins, Nash, Smoak & Stewart, PC Palmetto Citizens FCU Player’s Club Providence Park Publix Super Markets, Inc. Richardson, Plowden and Robinson P.A. Robinson Gray Stepp & Laffitte, L.L.C. Rogers Townsend LLC SAFE Federal Credit Union – Sumter
Seibels Sheraton Columbia Downtown Hotel Smoked South Carolina Election Commission South Carolina Federal Credit Union South State Bank Southern First SpringHill Suites by Marriott Columbia near Fort Jackson Sylvamo Terminix Service, Inc. The Grand The Grandview at Lake Murray The Heights at Lake Murray The Venue & Soda City Beer Garden Turner, Padget, Graham & Laney, P.A. Tyson Foods, Columbia Case Ready Plant Vista Commons WIS News 10
*Includes new and existing Power Partners
CONNECT MARKETING UPDATE
This year, the Chamber’s marketing and communications department was proud to roll out new programs, increase the scope of interaction with the Chamber’s online presence, and even win an award in communications. With a focus on building community, the Chamber was able to CONNECT to the Midlands region in new and innovative ways. FACEBOOK 2022 vs 2023:
• 822 new followers • 1,464 new page likes • 37% increase in reach
LINKEDIN 2022 vs 2023:
• 254 new followers • 85% increase in impressions
INSTAGRAM 2022 vs 2023:
• 364 new followers • 20% increase in impressions
• 13% increase in open rate
Carolinas Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives recognized the Columbia Chamber with the 2023 Communications Excellence Award for the 2022 “Nice List” campaign. This integrated marketing campaign featured twelve small businesses leading up to the 2022 holidays. A custom video was created for each business along with a day-of exclusive promotion for Chamber Partners only. All participating businesses also donated an item towards a large local product giveaway. The winner was chosen by tracking their interaction with all participants’ social media accounts. The Columbia Chamber highlighted 24 small businesses during our “Small Business Takeover” campaign in May. For one day, each business was able to use the reach of our social media channels to promote their products and services. From custom slideshows, videos and even behind the scenes sneak peeks, each featured business was able to tell their story directly to the full Chamber audience.
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2022 Holiday “Nice List” Campaign Statistics
SOCIAL MEDIA
STATISTICS 81
Giveaway Participants
326
Webpage Views
21,391+ Total Social Media Impressions
This past holiday season, the Columbia Chamber highlighted several of our local small business Partners by introducing our “Nice List” campaign. From November 28th to December 16th, one Midlands business was featured each weekday via the Chamber’s social media platforms. Each “Nice List” Partner offered an exclusive savings opportunity for Chamber Partners and highlighted their holiday promotions. Each “Nice List” Partner also donated a product or gift voucher for our Ultimate Holiday Local "Nice List" Giveaway. The giveaway was open to any local Midlands resident 21 years or older and required participants to complete tasks to earn points. Tasks included visiting our “Nice List” Partners’ websites and social media platforms.
Use your phone’s camera to scan the QR code to follow the Columbia Chamber on social media.
FOCUS GROUPS
Focus Groups are a way to deep dive with Chamber Partners to learn more about their Partnership experience. A focus group is a healthy conversation of constructive criticism, getting to know each other better, and informative insights. The Diplomats and Partner Relations Committee joined forces to host these sessions to CONNECT with our Partners and learn more about where their companies would like to see the Chamber shift focus. In March and April of 2023, three Partner Focus Groups were held with workforce development and public policy being the top two topics discussed. What we learned: • Workforce development and talent acquisition and retention is a concern in the future • Finding ways to keep expenses down so that consumers have more disposable income to spend on their small businesses is top of mind
DIPLOMATS
The Diplomat program has maintained over 20 active Diplomats in 2022-2023. This year, the Diplomat Committee brought back “Diplomat of The Quarter” where building up monthly points by making Partner touchpoints, attending events, and serving the Columbia Chamber leads to a “Diplomat of the Year” award celebrated at the Annual Chamber Gala. The Diplomat Committee rotates their monthly meetings to different Partner locations as well as offers business spotlights during each meeting in an effort to CONNECT with Partners in more interactive ways. This year Diplomats engaged, supported, and promoted close to 50 Partners as either host or lunch sponsors and business spotlight speakers. Diplomats meet twice per month and are the Chamber’s biggest cheerleaders!
ONBOARDING WITH THE CHAMBER Did you know that the Partner Development team offers personalized onboarding sessions to help connect new and existing Partners and their staff to all of the ways they can get involved in the Chamber? In 20222023, over 87 onboarding sessions were hosted in-person or virtually.
• Modernizing taxes to make the Midlands more competitive will set up future generations for success. WORD CLOUDS DESCRIBING COMPANY NEEDS
DIPLOMATS
FOCUS GROUP 1: CORNERSTONE PARTNERS
FOCUS GROUP 2: KEYSTONE PARTNERS
ANNUAL REPORT 2022-23
ENGAGE EVENTS
This year showed the highest attendance in every event program-wide in Chamber history. Our Partners are able to ENGAGE in new and exciting ways through one-of-a-kind experiences.
“The Columbia Chamber of Commerce provides so many opportunities to network, engage and learn with those who are working to make Columbia flourish – the business owners, patrons, and leaders here! I love that each event is at a different time and location, so you have chances to make events that are convenient to you and your schedule! I have gained a few things from the Chamber. First is the knowledge and opportunity to learn about the “happenings” here in Columbia and getting behind-the-scenes looks at grand openings, new business ventures, and local expansions. Second, it has provided me with an opportunity to tell people what I do and what FGP does — more than just a cold call or an unexpected drop-in. I have had the chance to stand up and introduce myself and FGP to people who are truly listening in several Small Business Breakout meetings. Finally, it has helped me develop new friendships, and building relationships and friendships makes doing our job really fun. Thank you, Columbia Chamber!!”
Emily James
Business Development FIND GREAT PEOPLE 8
COLUMBIACHAMBER
SPORTING CLAY TOURNAMENT
Each Fall, the Columbia Chamber and Greater CayceWest Columbia Chamber partner together to host a friendly sporting clay tournament for members of both chambers to ENGAGE with each other. The day consists of a friendly sporting clay competition followed by prizes for teams and individuals, with lunch and a post-tournament reception included for everyone. The event also hosts a Sheriff Shoot-off competition with Sheriff Jay Koon of the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department winning the 2022 prize. A donation was made to Lexington County Sheriff’s Foundation in his honor.
“The Columbia Chamber knows how to throw a party. There was great food, fun, dancing, and entertainment but most of all the joyous laughter and smiles among business Partners and friends…looking forward to next year’s event.” Lynn Hutto, Consultant, LIH Consulting
119TH GALA
The Chamber’s Annual Gala is our region’s premier business event to ENGAGE with attendees representing some of the area’s most influential corporate leaders, small business owners, young professionals, educators, elected officials, and more. The 119th Annual Gala, presented by BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina was held at Junction 800 in the Vista District and featured live music by The Embers. 2022 Gala Award Winners: • Ambassador of the Year: David Pankau • Young Professional of the Year: Lindsey Spires Griffin • Military Advocate of the Year: Lamont Christian • Public Servant of the Year: Chief William “Skip” Holbrook • Diplomat of the Year: Leanna Lee
“This was a very nice event. I love dressing up, but I truly think this was the best for working folks. Great turn out, food was great, and the music was wonderful. The presentation for the winners was perfect.” Delores Jordan, CTFA Senior Vice President, SouthState Bank
ANNUAL REPORT 2022-23
37TH ANNUAL COLUMBIA CHAMBER CLASSIC
The Columbia Chamber’s annual golf tournament is a can’t-miss event by Chamber Partners. Held each spring, this Captain’s Choice event is a great opportunity for business leaders to network and ENGAGE while enjoying some of the finest golf in the Midlands. Players can tee up with the movers and shakers of Columbia’s business community, all while enjoying the hospitality of top-notch sponsors. The 2023 Classic hosted 50 teams and almost 400 participants — the largest in Chamber history!
“Splash Omnimedia thoroughly enjoyed being the title sponsor of the 37th Annual Columbia Chamber Golf Tournament. Our team was able to connect with new friends and reconnect with old friends. We are already looking forward to 2024 and many years to come!” Matt Thompson, Splash Omnimedia
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“As the 2022-2023 Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Columbia Chamber, it brings me great joy to spend quality time with our Partners. One of the most impactful opportunities is at the annual Chamber Classic. Whether playing as a team, hosting a tee as a sponsor, or celebrating with everyone at the 19th hole reception, the Chamber’s golf tournament has something for everyone. I look forward to it every year.” John Griggs, Synovus
“Being a sponsor of the Columbia Chamber golf tournament is a great way to show support for the local community and promote business growth while enjoying a fun day on the golf course.” Zach Wilkerson, SERVPRO of Richland County
SNEAK PEEK FOR GOLF CLINICS 2023/2024: New
in 2023, Partners have the chance to elevate their golf game, forge valuable connections, and enjoy a post-clinic lunch at our exclusive Golf Clinic, where seasoned instructors will guide novice golfers in refining their swing, perfecting their putt, and mastering the art of the perfect drive.
POWER IN HEELS
Power in Heels Women’s Conference is a dynamic women’s only event that provides a unique platform for women in business to gain valuable knowledge, ENGAGE in professional networking opportunities, and socialize in a fun and interactive environment. The 2023 Leadership Columbia Alumni Association’s Women in Leadership panel kicked off the conference featuring accomplished women who have made an impact in their respective fields. Immediately following the panel, the Power in Heels reception was held, featuring exciting raffles, a flashiest high heel competition, and much more. A standing room only event, nearly 300 women-inbusiness gathered at the Columbia Museum of Art for this memorable occasion.
SNEAK PEAK – POWER IN HEELS 2024: 2024 Power
in Heels will proudly feature the presentation of the prestigious Cathy Novinger Trailblazer Award, recognizing exceptional female leaders and their outstanding contributions to women in business.
SNEAK PEAK – POWER IN BOOTS 2024: 2024 will premiere the inaugural Power in Boots, a Women’s Sporting Clay Tournament. As an extension of Power in Heels, this exclusive women’s only tournament celebrates women in business while fostering a sense of community. ANNUAL REPORT 2022-23
COLUMBIA IMPACT AWARDS
The Columbia Impact Awards strive to spotlight the dedication of outstanding organizations and individuals that make the Columbia region a vibrant place to visit, live, and do business. The Columbia Impact Awards were celebrated during March’s Breakfast Briefing. The Chamber continued to ENGAGE with and celebrate each award recipient post-event with an online social media campaign recognizing their accomplishments. 2023 Award Winners: • Hospitality Industry – Experience Columbia SC • Workforce Development – AECOM • Diversity & Inclusion – Mark Anthony Brewing • Small Business of the Year – Sun Solutions • Cathy Novinger Trailblazer – Ben Arnold Golden Nail Award Recipients: • 1813 Main • 5th & Sloan • The Cambria Hotel • The Palms 1101 • WestLawn SNEAK PEEK – NEW AWARD FORMAT: We are thrilled to announce the exciting reformatting of our Columbia Impact Awards! The Columbia Chamber will now be presenting these awards throughout the year to show our continued commitment to celebrating the transformative impact of individuals and businesses in our community. You can now conveniently access all award nominations in one spot on our website, allowing you to nominate deserving honorees at any time. 12
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COFFEE WITH CARL
A Partner favorite, Coffee with Carl (CWC) ended 2022 at Mast General Store to celebrate the holiday season. Each month, CWC went on location to visit Partners at their sites. Some favorites included the prize chicken display at the State Fair and a ridealong with On Patrol Live local celebrity, Captain Danny Brown.
PARTNER ENGAGEMENTS In FY 22/23, the Chamber hosted 10 Partner Engagements, ENGAGING hundreds of Partners in a fun networking atmosphere. 1. EdVenture 2. Columbia Museum of Art – Boyd Plaza 3. Craft Axe Throwing 4. Steel Hands Brewing 5. SMOKED Sponsored by SCRLA 6. Merrill Gardens 7. Market on Main Sponsored by Main Street District
8. Splash Omnimedia – Tri-Chamber
with Cayce-West Columbia and Lexington Chambers, Celebrating Small Business Month
9. Capital City Club Sponsored by
Cool Care Heating, Air, Plumbing & Refrigeration
10. Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Columbia
RIBBON CUTTINGS
The Chamber hosted 28 ribbon cuttings this fiscal year. These events offer Partners a chance to ENGAGE and welcome new Partners to the Chamber.
ANNUAL REPORT 2022-23
IMPACT PUBLIC POLICY
The Columbia Chamber works to be the voice of its Partners by staying involved in key decisions that may affect businesses at local, county, state and national levels. The IMPACT of these decisions can affect the growth of our community for years to come. This year, the Chamber shifted our Issues Forum into Breakfast Briefing, allowing Partners to learn more about important topics and network over a hot breakfast. Some of the topics covered were: • Outlook for Regional Economic Growth • Legislative Update and Public Policy Announcement • SC DOT Highway Construction Update • Forecasting the Future with Mayor Rickenmann and Chairman Walker • Richland School District Two Superintendent Overview with Dr. Moore
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MILITARY
Columbia is home to the US Army’s largest training base at Fort Jackson, the South Carolina National Guard and McEntire Joint National Guard Base, Department of Defense Contractors, military retirees and veterans, and the US Army Reserves. The combined economic impact in the Midlands is $6.6 billion, with Fort Jackson alone accounting for $4.2 billion. As advocates and champions for our military, the Columbia Chamber works tirelessly to strengthen the relationships between the community and military, working to support their families while retaining and expanding the local military footprint.
In fiscal year 2022-2023, The Chamber partnered with the different local military installations in several ways. For example, our 2023 Leadership Columbia class spent a day touring the different bases and even learning some tactical maneuvers on the ropes course. Several of our Partners were able to observe Night Infiltration Training, where they saw soldiers-in-training maneuver through mud, live ammunition and darkness to complete their missions. Each month, over 125 new officers are welcomed to the region with an orientation co-hosted by the Chamber. ANNUAL REPORT 2022-23
TRANSFORM LEADERSHIP COLUMBIA
This June, Leadership Columbia (LC) wrapped up its 50th year of programming. As the premier leadership development program in Columbia, LC has TRANSFORMED the region’s business community. The Class of 2023 completed 90 hours of class time in addition to over 1,150 hours working on the class project benefitting Homeless No More. The class also raised over $30K for improvements to the project. Project highlights included a refurbished community center, a new mural painted in coordination with local muralist Ija Charles, and an upgraded playground. The Leadership Columbia Alumni Association hosted four events as part of a new series entitled “District X District, Columbia’s Path for Citywide Growth.” These events brought in past alumni from various years to explore the future of the Midlands.
Celebrating Fifty Years of Leadership Columbia • 41 class projects including the
Sally Salamander walking tour, MIRCI home, Gateway entrance at Riverfront Park, and the Babcock Center Beautification
• Notable graduates: Tameika Isaac Devine (2002), Judi Gatson (1997), Candy Waites* (1973), Robin Waites* (2004), Karen Jenkins (2002), Holt Chetwood (2003), Sharon Bryant (1995), Paul Mashburn (2003), Scott Garvin (1994), Rick Henry (1993), and David Lockwood (1993) • Roughly 2,200 graduates to date
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*Candy and Robin Waites are mother and daughter!
MIDLANDS MINORITY BUSINESS ACCELERATOR
Started with a seed grant from Bank of America, the Midlands Minority Business Accelerator (MMBA) program supports advancement for economic inclusion across the state of South Carolina by helping to reduce the economic disparities faced by minority-owned businesses. MMBA uses a curriculum created by Interise to aid business owners in creating a three-year strategic growth action plan (SGAP). The curriculum supports development and economic inclusion initiatives by teaching business development strategies, strategic business planning, financial management and analysis, human resources, accessing capital, and securing corporate and government contracts. MMBA graduates are measured on job creation, market expansion, and revenue growth post-graduation. Upon leaving the
program, these businesses are TRANSFORMED and positioned for accelerated growth with enhanced access to capital and business networks.
Program Impact
The inaugural cohort of MMBA achieved remarkable growth, generating a combined revenue increase of 35% over the past year. They are a testament to the program’s economic impact. Eight CEOs from various industries graduated from the first year of the program in December of 2022: • Niketa Galloway – Bizzy Kidz Kab Company • Allison Sullivan – Bluestein Attorneys • Nate Abraham – Carolina Panorama • Rozalynn Goodwin – Confidence by GaBBY • Elias Lykes – Defender Firearms and Training • Debi Schadel – Flock and Rally • Heather Leigh – Greenhaven Memorial Gardens • Will Patterson – PatCon Industries
2022 Cohort Results At a Glance
DEBI SCHADEL, FLOCK AND RALLY: Onboarded new
CRM and project management software, grew from 15 employees to 19, and increased their win rate from 40% to 60%. NIKETA GALLOWAY, BIZZY KIDZ KAB COMPANY: Hired four virtual assistants since graduation in December. HEATHER LEIGH, GREENHAVEN MEMORIAL GARDENS:
Used the books Managing by the Numbers and Duct Tape Marketing provided by Interise to host teaching sessions for a local nonprofit. Greenhaven has grown from 10 burials a year to 30 since graduation due to her SGAP and they have also added a pet cemetery. ANNUAL REPORT 2022-23
WILL PATTERSON, PATCON INDUSTRIES: Started an apprenticeship program and has since hired five full-time employees. The average age of a brick mason was 55, however, his new employees are aged between 17-25, ushering in a new workforce of skilled artisans. ALLISON SULLIVAN, BLUESTEIN ATTORNEYS: Hired three attorneys and an additional paralegal to relaunch their appellee and criminal defense teams. With assistance from fellow cohort member, Flock and Rally, developed firm and practice area specific messaging guidelines to be more consistent and focused with communications with clients and the community.
2023 Cohort Overview
The 2023 entrepreneurs are a dynamic group of individuals, each with unique vision and shared determination to create a lasting impact to the Midlands’ economy: • Brittany Koester – Azalea Coffee Bar • Timothy Clements – Clements Cleaning Service • Alicia Davis – Davis Tax Consulting & Financial Services • Cornell Jones – Joseph C. Logistics • Teresa Tidwell-Smith – Meaningful Escapes Travel Agency • Bryan Tayara – Rosewood Market • Eunissa Warnock – The Assignment Agency • Charity Stewart – The Glow Factory
SMALL BUSINESS
According to the Small Business Administration, 96.9% of all businesses in South Carolina are classified as small businesses. Within the Chamber, we recognize the critical role small businesses play in economic growth and TRANSFORMING a community. Through our small business initiatives, we highlight our commitment to fostering SC’s growth and development within the small business community. Through Small Business Breakout, Northeast Connection, and newly launched TD Bank Small Business Champion Program, we have continued to provide resources and opportunities for education, networking, and motivation.
Small Business Breakout
Small Business Breakout has been a cornerstone of our efforts, providing a forum for education, networking, and motivation. These monthly meetings also provide an opportunity for Chamber Partners and those interested in becoming a Chamber Partner to interact with the small businesses in the region. This initiative has helped strengthen the local business ecosystem and facilitate meaningful connections. On average, our Small Business Breakout meetings saw an impressive registration rate of 120 guests for each session this fiscal year, an increase of 20% compared to the previous year. This consistent attendance translates to tangible local impact, highlighting strong interest and engagement in our small business community.
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Each monthly topic is meticulously chosen to address critical aspects of small business’s needs. By providing relevant content we aim to empower our Partners.
• January: Chamber 101 • February: Handshakes and Headshots • March: Doing Business Locally • April: Resources Available • May: Celebrating Small Business • June: Branding and Marketing • August: Sales • September: Thriving as a Small Business • October: Small Business Connectors • November: Non-Profits • December: Shop Local
Northeast Connection
The quarterly Northeast Connection meetings bring small businesses in the Northeast Columbia region together to promote growth and enhance community awareness of small businesses that are independently owned and operated in this area. The connection between the Northeast region and downtown Columbia strengthens relationships and promotes growth.
TD Bank Small Business Champion Program
In our pursuit of furthering support for small businesses, we launched the TD Bank Small Business Champion Program this year. This program is designed to empower small business owners by covering a full year of Partnership fees with the Chamber. Additionally, each recipient is paired with a dedicated TD Bank mentor, as well as a Chamber Diplomat to provide mentorship, guidance, and assistance in navigating the opportunities available to them through their Partnership.
2023 TD Bank Small Business Champion Program Winners: • AI Nautics • Erika Dawkins Communications • Midlands Mediation Center • OTR Media Group • R. Bettis Construction
ANNUAL REPORT 2022-23
Carl Blackstone
Ashleigh Pair Conner, CMP
Henri Baskins
Susan Vaughan McPherson
PRESIDENT & CEO cblackstone@columbiachamber.com EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT hbaskins@columbiachamber.com
decisions to invest in our mission d to ensure thatMeg bothSenn parties are VP esses can flourish.OF COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING
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Learn more about the Columbia Chamber and get conn using your phone’s camera to scan the QR code be
COLUMBIACHAMBER STAFF
msenn@columbiachamber.com
Leah Kelly
SENIOR DIRECTOR OF PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT lkelly@columbiachamber.com
Hilary Bell
DIRECTOR OF EVENTS hbell@columbiachamber.com
Amy Alimohamed
PARTNER DEVELOPMENT MANAGER aalimohamed@columbiachamber.com
Rachel Pedde
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT rpedde@columbiachamber.com
VP OF DEVELOPMENT aconner@columbiachamber.com VP OF PUBLIC POLICY & MILITARY AFFAIRS smcpherson@columbiachamber.com
Anna Peterson
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS apeterson@columbiachamber.com
Naomi Walton
DIRECTOR OF SMALL & MINORITY BUSINESS nwalton@columbiachamber.com
Mary Beth Sanderson
DIRECTOR OF LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT msanderson@columbiachamber.com
Rebecca Spence
PARTNER DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR rspence@columbiachamber.com
MARK YOUR CALENDARS! November 16, 2023
SPORTING CLAY TOURNAMENT February 1, 2024 NEW
POWER IN BOOTS March 14, 2024
POWER IN HEELS April 25, 2024
38TH ANNUAL CHAMBER GOLF CLASSIC October 3, 2024
121ST ANNUAL 20 GALACOLUMBIACHAMBER
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