The Small Business Division was created in 2008 to identify key issues and services that are necessary for the development of minority, small businesses, as well as the best measures for sustainability, programmatic implementation, enhancement, and economic growth. In 2024, the division expanded to include the South Carolina Division of Small and Minority Business Contracting and Certification (SMBCC). The SMBCC was created by Executive Order in October 1979. Enabling legislation was passed and the program was placed into law as outlined in Article 21, Section 11-35-5010 of the Code of Laws of South Carolina, 1981. The integration of SMBCC into the Commission enhances the agency’s services and support for small and minority businesses across the state. Together, the division serves as a one-stop shop for those looking for resources to start or grow their business, those looking to do business with a minority-owned business, or those looking to become certified as a minority-owned business.
The Small Business Division connects minority- and women-owned small businesses to State contracting and procurement opportunities through the Material Management Office (MMO), while working with State agencies to implement and monitor minority-contracting programs in accordance with applicable policies, laws, and regulations.
SMBCC also serves as a conduit to the SC Department of Administration on key issues affecting the small and disadvantaged business communities. This includes taking a lead role in helping stakeholders to develop and implement policies and procedures aimed at increasing participation in State contracting by small, minority- and women-owned businesses.
SMBCC’s staff provides program services to firms on an individual counseling basis as well as workshops. We are responsible for overseeing the efforts of the state agencies as they plan and implement efforts intended to overcome special problems related to MBE participation initiatives.
SMBCC’s technical assistance is comprised of seminar training, one-on-one consultations, MBE goal setting, potential vendor lists, participation reports, and dispute resolution. We also provide assistance for procurement officials, prime suppliers and general contractors to design and implement effective supplier diversity strategies into the procurement and subcontracting process.
Mission
The mission is to promote the interest of small businesses as a part of the free enterprise system; thereby, enhancing economic growth and development in South Carolina.
SMBCC certifies that a South Carolina business is owned, controlled, and operated by a socially and economically disadvantaged minority who is a United States citizen. There are no loans, grants or guaranteed award of contracts associated with obtaining certification. Businesses are encouraged to participate in any agency’s bid process. Agency solicitations are advertised in the SC Business Opportunities (SCBO) publication issued by the Materials Management Office.
Goals
- To promote the growth and development of small and minority-owned businesses in South Carolina.
- To act as an advocate so that an equitable portion of State procurement contracts be awarded to small and minority-owned businesses.
- To encourage minority businesses that want state contracts to become certified.