South Carolina Economic Activity Capped by $5.7 billion in Capital Investment, More than 18,000 Jobs Recruited

The South Carolina Department of Commerce today released its 2021 industry recruitment results, which break multiple records set throughout the past decade. In total, the state won 153 projects, accounting for $5.7 billion in capital investment and more than 18,000 new jobs.

“South Carolina’s strong industry recruitment in 2021 proves that we are a state dedicated to providing a business-friendly climate for companies of all types,” said Gov. Henry McMaster. “To see companies not only invest in our state, but continue to expand here, is a testament to the pro-business policies in place to help companies thrive after they arrive in South Carolina.”

Industry recruitment figures increased in multiple categories over 2020 reporting, pointing to a strong pandemic recovery throughout South Carolina. Notably, 2021 marks one of the largest years for investment in the state’s rural communities in the past decade. And, while domestic-based companies represented the majority of recruited investments, for the first time since 2017, overall foreign direct investment (FDI) and committed FDI jobs both increased last year.

“2021 was a record-breaking year in terms of capital investment within South Carolina, and it further proves that our state continues to cultivate a diverse economy,” said Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III. “To recruit more than $5 billion in capital investment – an accomplishment the state had not seen since 2017 – takes a remarkable amount of teamwork and collaboration from many partners and allies across our state.”

For more details and to access the complete report, click here.