Research & development in South Carolina
South Carolina is advancing research and development across advanced manufacturing, life sciences, aerospace, energy, technology and other emerging industries.
SC is an ecosystem for innovation
Across SC, researchers, entrepreneurs and industry leaders are transforming ideas into scalable technologies, advanced products and real-world applications. Investment in research infrastructure, laboratory space, applied testing environments and commercialization support continues expanding the state’s capacity for innovation and technology development.
Organizations like the South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) help connect startups, research institutions and private industry with the resources needed to accelerate product development, strengthen commercialization efforts and support long-term growth across South Carolina’s innovation economy.
As research capabilities continue growing statewide, South Carolina is creating an environment where emerging technologies can be developed, tested and brought to market.
Innovation and research leaders in South Carolina
Infrastructure for innovation
South Carolina’s research and development ecosystem is supported by a growing network of research facilities, advanced testing environments, wet labs and innovation-focused infrastructure designed to help companies move technologies from development to commercialization. These resources support an environment where research, applied technologies and emerging industries can continue growing in South Carolina.
Research & innovation infrastructure
Organizations like the South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) provide access to research parks, laboratory space, secure facilities and technology resources supporting startups, emerging companies and advanced industry operations across SC.
Commercialization & startup growth
Programs like SC Launch® Inc. help accelerate product development and commercialization by connecting early-stage companies with funding opportunities, mentorship and business support resources. Continued investment in digital infrastructure and technology capabilities is also helping strengthen innovation and connectivity statewide.
World-class higher education and specialized research campuses
South Carolina’s research and development ecosystem is strengthened by internationally recognized universities, applied research institutions and specialized innovation centers supporting advanced technology development across multiple industries.
Tax incentives supporting research & development
South Carolina supports continued investment in research, innovation and technology development through incentives designed to help companies expand R&D operations and accelerate commercialization efforts.
The state’s Research & Development Tax Credit rewards companies increasing qualified research activities during a taxable year. SC offers a credit equal to 5% of qualified research expenses, as defined under Section 41 of the Internal Revenue Code.
The credit may offset up to 50% of a company’s remaining tax liability after other credits have been applied, and unused portions may be carried forward for up to 10 years from the date of the qualified expenditure.
Job tax credit
A statutory tax credit available to qualifying new and expanding companies that create and maintain net new full-time jobs in South Carolina. Credit value varies based on the number of jobs created and the county where they are located.
Research & development equipment sales tax exemption
To support innovation in SC, machinery and equipment purchased for R&D may be eligible for a state and local sales tax exemption.
retrainSC workforce retraining credits
Offset eligible training costs as new technologies, equipment and processes create new skill requirements for employees already on the job.
Xoted Biotechnology Labs establishing operations in Spartanburg County
$4.2 million investment will create 34 new jobs
South Carolina Recognized in Business Facilities’ Latest Rankings
South Carolina is built for the new economy. Industry magazine Business Facilities recently recognized the state for many of the attributes C-Suite executives and small business owners alike have already come to appreciate.United Kingdom-South Carolina Relations Grow
In mid-July, Deputy Secretary of Commerce Ashely Teasdel and S.C. Commerce led a state delegation throughout the United Kingdom. The mission trip helped grow bilateral collaboration, strengthen economic ties and build trade relations — continuing to advance the December 2022 memorandum of understanding between the two economies.Interested in R&D in South Carolina?
Subscribe to our newsletter
Explore opportunities in SC
Connect with our Business Development team to discuss your company’s plans and learn more about South Carolina’s R&D opportunities.
