Helpful Links
Download a Business Guide for Sumter County
Business Start Up Check List
Lender Check List
Downtown Sumter
The revitalization activities in Downtown Sumter have stimulated a great deal of interest and activity in the Central Business District. The streetscape project, renovation to our parking lots and the numerous buildings that have received a facelift through our Facade Grant Program have all served as catalysts for development by the private sector. Because of the revitalization efforts, buildings that have been for sale for an extended period of time are now selling and the new owners are providing the necessary renovations to make the properties an attractive asset to the downtown area.
The Item Newsaper
The Item is Sumter's only newspaper and is printed 6 times a week. You can reach this by calling (803) 774-1200.
Sumter City-County Planning Department
The Sumter City-County Planning Department provides responsive, efficient, factual, balanced, and transparent land use expertise to the citizens, property owners, businesses and public officials of the Sumter Community.
City/County Business License Department
Small Business Development Center The local office of the Small Business Development Center can be found on the USC Sumter campus and can be reached by calling Jim Giffin, Director at (803) 938-3833. SBDC services are free and can help with all aspects of starting or running a small business.
SCORE
SCORE is the Service Corps of Retired Executives, a non-profit association providing free business counseling on small business development and problems. Contact the Greater Sumter Chamber of Commerce for an appointment with SCORE Representative Jack O’Neal at (803) 775-1231.
Santee-Lynches Regional Council of Governments
To serve as a forum of governments, advocating a regional vision through identification of opportunities, effective courses of action, and appropriate resources essential to enable local governments to enhance the quality of life of the citizens of Clarendon, Kershaw, Lee and Sumter counties. You can reach the COG at (803)775-7381.
South Carolina Department of Commerce
The South Carolina Department of Commerce works to promote economic opportunity for individuals and businesses. As South Carolina’s leading economic development agency, the Department of Commerce works to recruit new businesses and help existing businesses grow.
South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce
When reliable employment proves difficult, we help people work toward financial stability by providing unemployment benefits, job opportunities, and workforce services. To promote stable employment and economic growth for all, we track trends and statistics and connect employers and job seekers in the true spirit of productivity. You can reach the SCDEW at (803) 775-7359.
South Carolina Chamber of Commerce
The South Carolina Chamber of Commerce is the unified voice of business and premier advocacy organization in the state. The South Carolina Chamber creates prosperity for all citizens through an economy of increased productivity and global competitiveness.
United States Chamber of Commerce
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world's largest business federation representing the interests of more than 3 million businesses of all sizes, sectors, and regions, as well as state and local chambers and industry associations. More than 96% of U.S. Chamber members are small businesses with 100 employees or fewer.