Benedict College, Goodwill Industries partner for business accelerator program [Video]

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Benedict College’s Women’s Business Center and Goodwill Industries of Upstate/Midlands South Carolina (GIUMSC) have partnered through NxLevel Business Accelerator Program to provide a 10-week program designed to train participants in the essential skills and knowledge needed to build, grow and sustain a successful business.

The college and Goodwill signed a memorandum of understanding on November 22, 2024, launching the first program. Since then, the program has graduated 13 participants who have gone on to grow their ventures in the food and beverage, health and beauty, retail, and education services.

The next orientation session for the program is scheduled for February 11 at Goodwill locations in Columbia (111 Highland Center Dr.) and Greenville (2550 N Pleasantburg Dr.), with classes beginning 6-7:30 p.m. February 18.

Applicants for the program must be at least 21 years old and interested in starting a business. Class size is limited to 20 participants per session.

Students will meet weekly at the Columbia or …