To apply for Fort Mill business grants in 2025, local entrepreneurs should follow a clear process facilitated mainly by the Lancaster County Chamber of Commerce and other regional sources offering grant support.
Key Steps for Grant Application
- Identify Appropriate Grants: The Lancaster County Chamber of Commerce offers two $1,000 grants focused on revitalization/storefront improvement and business acceleration for eligible businesses (including minority, veteran, or women-owned). Applications open annually from August 1 to mid-September, with awards announced in October.​
- Membership and Eligibility: Applicants must be members in good standing of the Lancaster County Chamber of Commerce, have a business located in properly zoned areas, hold an EIN, and maintain a separate business bank account. Grants cannot be used for owner salaries, political activities, or personal use equipment.​
- Prepare Documentation: Gather key documents including business licenses, financial statements, tax returns, detailed business plans, and a clear proposal on how grant funds will be used. Writing a compelling story that explains the business’s need, impact, and feasibility improves chances.​
- Submit Application: Apply online through the Chamber’s website or relevant grant portals before the deadline. Follow all instructions carefully and ensure the application is complete and accurate.​
- Follow Up: Some grant programs notify all applicants about results, others only winners. Consider contacting the grant administrator politely if notification is delayed past the expected time.​
Additional Resources
Fort Mill’s official town website provides forms and applications for local business permits and may list other funding opportunities.​
Local business development centers such as the Small Business Administration (SBA) South Carolina District Office can assist with identifying grants, loans, and submitting competitive applications.​
Fort Mill business grant applicants should become Chamber members, prepare thorough documentation including a strong business plan and financial data, and submit applications during designated windows, particularly from August to mid-September for Lancaster County programs. Leveraging local resources and SBA support can further enhance success in securing funding to grow and revitalize Fort Mill businesses in 2025.
SOURCES
[1](https://www.lancasterchambersc.org/grant-program/)
[2](https://www.usgrants.org/south-carolina/93208-fort-mill-south-carolina-small-business-grants)
[3](https://www.legalzoom.com/articles/small-business-grants-2025)
[4](https://fortmillsc.gov/186/Forms-and-Applications)
[5](https://www.sba.gov/district/south-carolina)
