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Programs

Economic Development

The Life Sciences Continue to Flourish

As the champion of South Carolina life sciences, SCbio helps members gain economic and regulatory advantages in a myriad of ways. We are focused on taking the lead in developing and spearheading:

  • Recruiting a new generation of companies.
  • Supporting existing life sciences firms.
  • Providing lab and office space opportunities using high-impact integrated marketing strategies.

SCbio Lab Program

  • Free rent for lab space for one year at Main Street Labs in Greenville, S.C., or Blue Sky Labs in Charleston, S.C., for eligible high-growth life sciences companies (no lab size maximum or minimums).
  • Labs will be built-to-suit for qualifying companies.
  • One-year free membership to SCbio.
  • Access to SCbioEdge discount program.
  • Access to SCbio Association Healthcare Plan.
  • Possible relocation grant (up to $50,000) for eligible companies.
About Main Street Labs
About Blue Sky Labs

Recruitment

Life sciences was recognized as a top-three business priority for economic growth by the S.C. Department of Commerce. In partnership and alignment with S.C. Commerce, regional alliances and local economic development teams, SCbio is committed to adding real value and content expertise to the successful recruitment of highly coveted life sciences companies—ranging from pharmaceutical and drug development companies to medical device companies, R&D and laboratory facilities, and digital health solution providers. 

Existing Industry

SCbio regularly meets with its members and industry leaders to ensure the current ecosystem has the resources needed for business success. New workforce initiatives, policies and connections to our statewide partners support the growth of our industry.

SCbio Represents the Palmetto State

SCbio represents the state’s life sciences industry and our members on the national and international stage, including major conferences like BIO International or through global mission trips, helping you open new pathways to growth.

In December of 2022, Governor Henry McMaster signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the United Kingdom to Bolster Economic Development. The MOU has further allowed SCbio and partners to connect and collaborate with international life science companies to further potential business opportunities.

Exploring the Life Sciences Sector in the U.K.

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Paige Durham

SCbio is pleased to welcome Paige Durham to the team as communications coordinator to creatively and effectively communicate the value of the life science association’s programs and initiatives.

Durham will be responsible for developing and distributing high-quality content across multiple communications channels to build, advance and grow South Carolina’s life sciences industry, a key business sector for economic prosperity for the Palmetto State.

“SCbio is excited to welcome Paige to our team as our new communications coordinator. Paige brings fresh ideas and a strong background in communications that will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our engagement with our audience,” said SCbio President and CEO James Chappell. “We are confident that her skills and experience will be crucial in advancing our communication strategies and supporting our mission.”

Before joining SCbio, Durham was the Membership and Communications Manager at the South Carolina Pharmacy Association (SCPhA), where she used her photography, design and writing skills to create content tailored to pharmacy professionals. Durham’s effective communication skills guaranteed the delivery of brand-specific material that captured the eye of her audience.

During her time at SCPhA, Durham created and edited the Palmetto Pharmacist Journal, using her creative vision to showcase members, educational institutions and industry news. Her communications efforts successfully gained new followers for the organization over the course of a year, increasing brand visibility and promoting the pharmacy profession.

Durham holds a Bachelor of Science in hospitality and tourism management and a Bachelor of Science in business administration from the College of Charleston.

Tamia Sumpter

Tamia is a driven senior undergraduate Bioengineering student currently enrolled at Clemson University. With a strong foundation in her field, she has honed her skills through hands-on experience in research and development at Eli Lilly & Company. During her time in the ADME department, Tamia contributed significantly by working on siRNAs and their applications in finding In Vitro-In Vivo Correlation (IVIVC). Looking ahead, Tamia has set her sights on a promising career in law. She aspires to specialize in Intellectual Property Law, with a particular focus on serving as in-house counsel for leading medical device or pharmaceutical companies. Her enthusiasm for this role is palpable as she prepares to embark on her legal journey! She is also a proud member of the Omicron Phi chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., PEER Mentor for Clemson PEER/WiSE, and currently serves as the President of Clemson Bioengineering Organization (CBO). With her unique blend of scientific knowledge and legal interests, Tamia is poised to make a meaningful impact in the healthcare and life sciences industries.