SC MBDA Business Center: Fueling Growth for Minority Enterprises
Written by The MinorityVoice on November 18, 2023
South Carolina Minority Business Development Agency Business Center
(Columbia, SC) – For nearly three decades, the South Carolina MBDA Business Center has been a beacon of support for minority-owned businesses in the region, and its impact has been particularly transformative for those earning over $1 million in annual revenue. Operated by DESA, Inc., and led by Diane E. Sumpter, the center stands as a testament to the success achievable through strategic collaboration between private entities and government support.
Understanding the Center’s Mission: Established as part of the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), a division of the U.S. Department of Commerce, the South Carolina MBDA Business Center operates with a mission to champion economic parity for minority-owned businesses. In the last 10-month funding period alone, the center generated an impressive $73,829,768 in total revenue, showcasing its commitment to fostering growth and sustainability.
Strategic Services for High-Earning Businesses: For businesses making significant strides with annual revenues exceeding $1 million, the SC MBDA Business Center offers a comprehensive suite of services tailored to fueling growth. These services encompass access to capital, contract opportunities, strategic business counseling, export guidance, and marketing assistance.
Proven Achievements: The center’s 2022-2023 Annual Report underscores its commitment to measurable success. Exceeding its goals, the center reached 3,514 customers, served 90 Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs), and facilitated 15 strategic actions during the 10-month period. Notably, Optus Bank, the only Black-owned bank in South Carolina, received the Robert J. Brown Minority Business Enterprise of the Year Award, a testament to the center’s instrumental role in its success.
Access to Capital Solutions: Navigating the complexities of accessing capital is a critical aspect of business expansion. The SC MBDA Business Center, with its extensive network and financial expertise, assists high-earning businesses in identifying financing opportunities, packaging loans, facilitating equity financing, and providing bonding assistance.
Global Business Services: In an ever-changing marketplace, the center recognizes the importance of global competitiveness. For over a decade, DESA has operated Columbia’s MBDA Business Center, helping minority-owned firms penetrate new markets, both domestic and global. Services include export-readiness assessments, market analysis, and facilitation of international trade missions.
Strategic Partnerships: Success in the business landscape often hinges on strategic partnerships. The center, through its robust network, facilitates alliances that propel high-earning businesses to new heights. Whether it’s connecting with investors, collaborators, or industry partners, the SC MBDA Business Center opens doors to meaningful opportunities.
Digital Marketing Excellence: In an era dominated by digital presence, the center recognizes the importance of effective marketing. Services include brand strategizing, graphic design, and assistance in digital marketing across various channels, ensuring high-earning businesses remain competitive in the digital age.
Connect with Success: For businesses aspiring to scale, thrive, and make a lasting impact, the SC MBDA Business Center emerges as a steadfast partner and experienced advisor. This center understands the challenges faced by high-earning minority-owned businesses and possesses the knowledge, resources, and skills necessary to navigate the path to sustained growth.
If you’re a high-earning minority business owner looking to unlock new opportunities and elevate your business to the next level, connect with the South Carolina MBDA Business Center. Call 803-743-1152 or email info@desainc.com to initiate a conversation about your business’s growth trajectory. Your success story is at the forefront of the center’s mission.
