To apply for business grants in Columbia, SC in 2025, start by reviewing City of Columbia programs such as the Accommodations Tax Grant and Hospitality Tax Grant, as well as state and federal options. Application cycles and deadlines are key, with competitive programs for nonprofits, small businesses, and community developments.
Essential Steps and Deadlines
Accommodations Tax Grant:Â Application cycle begins March 3, 2025. Applications must be submitted by April 3, 2025. These grants support nonprofit projects and events that enhance tourism.
Hospitality Tax Grant:Â Opens January 23, 2025, with a deadline of February 28, 2025. Focuses on organizations improving visitor experience and drawing tourists; only registered nonprofits are eligible.
SC Community Development Block Grant (CDBG):Â State-administered CDBGs aim to help local governments improve economic opportunities, especially for low- and moderate-income groups. Review state guidelines and contact the SC Department of Commerce for specifics.
USDA Rural Business Development Grant:Â Deadline is February 28, 2025. Submit directly to the local or state USDA office; evidence of job creation and economic need is required.
SC Small Business Marketing Grant:Â Matching grant for advertising, applications closed Feb. 28, 2025, but monitor for new rounds and similar opportunities.
MASC IMPACT Fund:Â For municipalities, submit by September 26, 2025. Requires city council resolution and funds are reimbursable.
Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (SC EECBG):Â Rolling deadline through December 1, 2025, for eligible governmental entities and partners.
How to Apply
Access the official City of Columbia grants portal for specific guidelines, forms, and eligibility details.
Prepare documentation: detailed project description, impact, financials, proof of eligibility, and supplemental materials as required.
Submit online or by mail (as instructed in guidelines); incomplete or late applications are not considered.
For state-administered or federal grants, consult the SC Department of Commerce, USDA office, or relevant program contact for instructions and support.
If nonprofit, ensure registration with the South Carolina Secretary of State to qualify for city hospitality and accommodations tax grants.
Resources and Support
For questions on specific city tax grants, contact the listed program manager, typically available by email or phone.
Check additional programs at the Small Business Administration and South Carolina Business Development for broader funding and growth support.
Following these steps and deadlines will help maximize the chance of securing funding for Columbia-based business projects in 2025.To apply for business grants in Columbia, South Carolina in 2025, applicants should target the city’s official grant programs, including Accommodations Tax and Hospitality Tax Grants, and explore state and federal resources. Major deadlines for city grants include February and April, while statewide and federal initiatives vary by grant type and require early planning.
Key Grant Programs and Deadlines
| Grant Program | Application Window | Eligibility | Notes/Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodations Tax Grant | March 3 – April 3, 2025 | Nonprofits supporting local tourism/events | Submit via city grant portal |
| Hospitality Tax Grant | Jan 23 – Feb 28, 2025 | Registered nonprofits, tourism/event focus | Contact: Tina Saxon, City of Columbia |
| USDA Rural Business Grant | Until Feb. 28, 2025 | Small businesses in rural areas, job growth | Apply through local USDA |
| SC Small Business Marketing | Deadline: Feb. 28, 2025 | Small business, marketing match required | Post and Courier grant |
| MASC IMPACT Fund | Deadline: Sept 26, 2025 | Municipalities | 1 application per city per year |
| Energy Efficiency/Conservation | Rolling (Ends Dec 1, 2025) | Municipalities, agencies, school districts | SC EECBG, see SCEO for webinars |
| CDBG (Community Dev.) | Info available Feb 2025 | Local government/community development | Contact Dept. of Commerce |
How to Apply
Review grant guidelines for program-specific requirements; eligibility often depends on nonprofit status, economic impact, or project focus.
Register as a nonprofit with SC Secretary of State for city grants.
Prepare documentation: application form, project description, budget, financials, and proof of community impact.
Submit applications online or as instructed by each program; incomplete or late submissions are not accepted.
Reach out to grant contacts listed for clarification, especially for technical details or eligibility questions.
Monitor city, state, and federal sites for updated guidelines and new funding opportunities throughout the year.
By meeting deadlines and assembling complete documentation, businesses and organizations can improve their chances of securing Columbia grant funds in the coming year.
SOURCES
[1](https://grants.columbiasc.gov/grants-offered/)
[2](https://www.cdbgsc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/2025-Application-Guidelines-Final-PDF.pdf)
[3](https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/business-programs/rural-business-development-grants-21)
[4](https://postandcourieradvertising.com/small-business-marketing-grant-application/)
[5](https://www.masc.sc/impact-fund)
