How to Apply for Florence Business Grants in 2025

Florence, South Carolina offers several business grant opportunities in 2025 for small businesses, startups, and community-oriented enterprises. These grants come from local, state, and federal initiatives, each with their own application process, deadlines, and eligibility criteria.

City and Downtown Florence Grants

Businesses located in the downtown overlay district can apply for grants offered by the Florence Downtown Development Corp., in partnership with the City of Florence. Programs include Façade, Design, Sign, Irby Street Corridor Improvement, and Redevelopment Grants.​
Applications must be made before any work begins and are typically reimbursement-based, meaning costs are refunded after approved improvements. To apply:

1. Contact the Downtown Development Office (843‑678‑5912) for application packets.
2. Submit required documents describing the project scope, budget, and proof of ownership or lease.
3. Competitive applications may undergo a review and scoring process based on design and community impact.

Florence Chamber Marketing Grant

The Florence Chamber of Commerce manages the 2025 South Carolina Small Business Marketing Grant, which provides a 50% advertising match on new paid campaigns for up to six months.​
Steps to apply:

1. Visit the Florence Chamber of Commerce website (flochamber.com).
2. Complete the Small Business Advertising Grant form.
3. Provide details about your business, target market, and marketing plan.
4. Applications remain open throughout 2025 while funds last.

Federal and State-Level Rural Business Grants

Businesses in Florence County’s rural areas may apply for the USDA Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG).​
Key details:

Deadline: February 28, 2025 (4:30 p.m. EST).

Submit via email to [email protected], copying [email protected], or by mail to the USDA Rural Development Office, 1835 Assembly Street, Suite 1007, Columbia, SC 29201.
Evaluation criteria include job creation, economic need, and consistency with local development priorities.

Additional Local Support Resources

The Francis Marion University Kelley Center for Economic Development offers a Business Incubation Program and consultation support for new entrepreneurs. Meanwhile, minority and women-owned businesses can seek certification and inclusion in vendor programs through the South Carolina Governor’s Office of Small and Minority Business.​

How to Get Started

1. Determine the grant best suited for your business type and location.
2. Prepare required documentation: business license, tax ID, financials, and a project plan.
3. Attend free grant preparation sessions hosted by the Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce or connect with a SCORE mentor for guidance.​
4. Track deadlines closely—most city programs require pre-approval before beginning any funded project activity.

These opportunities allow Florence businesses in 2025 to access funding for marketing, renovation, and expansion while benefiting from strong local and federal development support.

SOURCES

[1](https://www.florencedowntown.com/incentive-information)
[2](https://www.flochamber.com/2025/07/29/small-business-advertising-grants/)
[3](https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/business-programs/rural-business-development-grants-21)
[4](https://www.flochamber.com/business-development/small-business-resources/)
[5](https://www.cityofflorence.com/public-bid-information/minority-women-owned-businesses)