Mack Kolb, Chairman Sumter Smarter Growth Initiative, Jay Schwedler, President and CEO, Sumter Development Board and TheLINK, Greg Thompson, Chairman, Sumter Development Board, Chuck Fienning, Sumter Smarter Growth Initiative Board member.
Economic Development At A Glance
TheLINK
S
umter County and Lee County have formed a dynamic partnership - TheLINK - a new regional organization at work to bring jobs and investment to the area. It is comprised of three organizations, two counties and multiple “Team” members: The organization consists of the Sumter Development Board, The Sumter Smarter Growth Initiative and Lee County Economic Alliance along with the City of Sumter, City of Bishopville, and County Councils from Sumter and Lee. The mission is to be the galvanizing force of our regions’ economic development efforts by creating wealth for all citizens of Sumter and Lee Counties by increasing per capita income and supporting the creation of well-paying jobs. Led by the President and CEO, the staff of experienced professionals, and boards of directors comprising a cross-section of business, industry, government and academia work diligently to position these organizations and the area with the
best opportunities to systemically and strategically create opportunities for positive community growth and economic expansion. TheLINK - an Economic Development Alliance representing Lee and Sumter Counties – is recognized by the South Carolina Department of Commerce as a Regional Economic Development Organization (REDO) and as such is eligible to secure and obtain resources to support economic development. Economic Development is a team effort. We work closely with our public partners – The Legislative Delegation, County Council, City Council, Council of Governments, Chamber of Commerce, USC Sumter, Morris College, Central Carolina Technical College, and the Sumter School District – and we depend on our private partners – The SSGI and TheLINK for support of our economic development efforts. To learn more about how you can invest in SSGI and TheLINK contact Eliza Buxton.
22 • Meet Your Local Professionals
TheLINK
An Economic Development Alliance Representing Lee and Sumter Counties, South Carolina Year founded 2014
Primary product or service
Creating wealth for all citizens of Sumter and Lee Counties by increasing per capita income and supporting the creation of well-paying jobs.
Top local executive
Jay Schwedler, President and CEO
Physical address
32 E. Calhoun Street, Sumter, SC 29150
Phone
803-774-2160
ebuxton@sumter-sc.com or ebuxton@thelinksc.com
Website
www.thelinksc.com