SCCLF Entrepreneur Conference: Connect and Grow

Join Us at the SCCLF Entrepreneur Conference!

You're invited, and so is your team. Join the South Carolina Community Loan Fund for a full day of workshops, networking, and inspiring speakers built specifically for small business owners and entrepreneurs across South Carolina. It's free to attend, so bring the people who help you run your business: your co-founders, your managers, your whole crew. The more of your team in the room, the more your business gets out of the day.

For over 20 years, SCCLF has been a catalyst for economic growth in communities across the state, providing loans, technical assistance, and advocacy for small businesses, affordable housing, and community facilities. This conference brings that mission to life for a day: real connections, practical strategies, and the kind of conversations that move a business forward.

Hosted By
Raphael James, Live 5 News Anchor

Keynote Speaker
Kevin T. Sheilley, CCE, President and CEO of the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce

What to Expect

• Direct access to banks and lenders: connect face-to-face with a range of banking partners and financial resources, all in one room
• Expert panelists sharing real-world insight on growing a small business
• Networking opportunities with fellow entrepreneurs and community leaders
• Insightful workshops with practical, take-it-home strategies
• Inspiring speakers from South Carolina's business community
• Breakfast, lunch, and refreshments are included, on us

Breakout Sessions

• The Business Behind the Brand: Leadership, Talent and Operations
• Get Seen. Get Chosen. Get Paid.
• The Capital Conversation: Funding, Cash Flow and Financial Strategy
• From Bid to Business: Winning Government and Corporate Contracts

Lunch Plenary
From LEAP to the Next Level, featuring a panel of LEAP alumni

Bring Your Team

This day is built for more than just the owner; bring the people who help run your business. Whether it's your co-founder, your operations manager, or your whole staff, everyone gets access to the same workshops, panels, and connections. It's free, so there's no reason to leave anyone at home.

Who Should Attend

Small business owners and entrepreneurs at any stage and their teams. Whether you're just starting out or scaling up, this day is built to connect you with the people, information, and resources that help your business grow.

About SC Community Loan Fund

SCCLF is a mission-driven Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) providing financing and resources to support small businesses, affordable housing, and community facilities across South Carolina. Learn more at sccommunityloanfund.org.

Tickets are free. Registration opens September 1 and stays open through the day of the event — but seating is limited, so register early to guarantee your spot and bring your team.