The cover has SUCCESS written multiple times over an image of South Carolina and a large S C superimposed over all.  It is obvious that this latest publication of the South Carolina Department of Commerce feels this is a compilation of resources that can make the dream of starting a business and prospering in South Carolina a reality.  The publication lives up to its promise—it is a reference tool providing statewide services in an easty-to-use and concise format.

The publication gives narrative and contact information on entities providing a variety of services in several areas:  business consulting and counseling, education and training, financial, regulatory and government, international trade, technology resources and incubators, local resources, and internet resources.  The narratives are generous—much more than a single sentence—and contact information includes fax, email, and web address if possible.

Be certain to flip through the Local Resources section in the back.  Here are complete lists of Chambers of Commerce and local economic developers, who are employed by counties and municipalities to provide assistance with community growth.  Colorful maps for the Councils of Government, County Regional Economic Development Alliances, Retired Executives (SCORE),  and Small Business Development Centers depict regions and office locations.

The introductory letter from Charles A. Bundy, Jr, Manager of Business Services at the Department does not indicate how the information was compiled, so it is hoped that any service provider omitted would have an opportunity to be added  for a subsequent edition. 

The publication is available to borrow from the South Carolina State Library and is in State Documents Depository Libraries around the state.  It is also in electronic format on the Department website.