Georgetown County, South Carolina

Background

Georgetown County, established in 1769 and named after King George III, is located in the Lowcountry region of South Carolina. The county seat is the city of Georgetown, the third oldest city in the state. Georgetown County encompasses a diverse landscape, including coastal areas along the Atlantic Ocean, rivers such as the Great Pee Dee, Waccamaw, Black, and Sampit, and inland rural regions. This geographical diversity has historically supported industries like rice and indigo cultivation, timber, and manufacturing. Today, the county aims to balance its rich historical heritage with modern economic development, focusing on creating a pro-business environment that leverages its strategic location and natural resources.

Key Strategic Focus

Georgetown County's strategic objectives center on economic diversification, infrastructure enhancement, and workforce development. The county is committed to attracting and supporting industries such as advanced manufacturing, aerospace, and technology. Key initiatives include:

Infrastructure Development: Significant investments have been made to improve infrastructure, including a $3.6 million grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce for upgrades at Georgetown County Airport to support business growth.

Industrial Parks: The county has developed several industrial parks, such as the Georgetown County Business Center and Pennyroyal Industrial Park, offering ready-to-build sites with access to essential utilities and transportation networks.

Workforce Development: Collaborations with educational institutions like Horry-Georgetown Technical College aim to provide a skilled workforce tailored to the needs of emerging industries.

Financials and Funding

Georgetown County has secured substantial funding to support its economic development initiatives:

Federal Grants: In May 2023, the U.S. Department of Commerce awarded a $3.6 million grant for infrastructure improvements at Georgetown County Airport, facilitating the development of commercial hangars and related facilities.

State and Local Investments: An additional $3.4 million grant was provided in June 2022 for water treatment plant upgrades to stimulate business and job growth.

These funds are intended to enhance infrastructure, attract new businesses, and create employment opportunities within the county.

Pipeline Development

Georgetown County is actively developing several key projects to bolster its economic landscape:

Georgetown County Business Center: A 633-acre industrial park near Andrews, SC, with ongoing construction of a rail spur and additional utility infrastructure to support new industries.

Pennyroyal Industrial Park: A 560-acre site offering barge and rail access, positioned to attract businesses requiring robust transportation options.

Georgetown County Airport: Following the completion of a master plan, the airport is actively recruiting aviation-based industries, with traffic increasing by 33% compared to the previous year.

Technological Platform and Innovation

While Georgetown County itself does not develop proprietary technologies, it fosters an environment conducive to innovation through:

Educational Partnerships: Collaboration with Horry-Georgetown Technical College, which offers programs in advanced manufacturing and technology, ensuring a pipeline of skilled workers.

Infrastructure Support: Development of technology parks and industrial sites equipped with modern utilities and connectivity to support high-tech industries.

Leadership Team

Georgetown County's economic development efforts are spearheaded by a dedicated team focused on fostering growth and attracting investment. The leadership includes:

Director of Economic Development: Oversees strategic initiatives, infrastructure projects, and business attraction efforts.

Economic Development Coordinator: Manages partnerships with local businesses, educational institutions, and government agencies to support workforce development and community engagement.

This team works collaboratively to implement the county's economic development strategies and ensure sustainable growth.

Leadership Changes

As of the latest available information, there have been no recent significant changes or appointments within Georgetown County's economic development leadership team.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

Georgetown County operates within a competitive regional landscape, with neighboring counties such as Horry County (home to Myrtle Beach) and Charleston County experiencing rapid growth. The Grand Strand area, encompassing parts of Georgetown and Horry Counties, attracts millions of tourists annually, contributing to a dynamic economic environment.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors include:

Horry County: With Myrtle Beach as a major tourist destination, Horry County has a robust hospitality industry and is investing in diversifying its economy through technology and manufacturing sectors.

Charleston County: Charleston's deepwater port and established aerospace industry, including Boeing's presence, make it a formidable competitor in attracting large-scale manufacturing and logistics businesses.

Georgetown County differentiates itself by offering a balance of industrial capacity and coastal lifestyle, appealing to businesses seeking a less congested environment with access to major markets.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Georgetown County has established several strategic partnerships to enhance its economic development efforts:

Waccamaw Regional Council of Governments (WRCOG): Collaborates on regional planning and economic development strategies.

Santee Electric Cooperative: Partners in developing speculative buildings and infrastructure within industrial parks.

South Carolina Ports Authority: Transferred the Georgetown Port property to the county, enabling local control and development of port facilities.

Operational Insights

Georgetown County's strategic location between Charleston and Myrtle Beach provides unique advantages:

Transportation Access: Proximity to major highways, rail lines, and ports facilitates efficient logistics for businesses.

Workforce Availability: A ready workforce supported by local educational institutions and a history of industrial employment.

Quality of Life: Coastal amenities and a rich historical heritage make it attractive for businesses and employees seeking a balanced lifestyle.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Looking ahead, Georgetown County aims to:

Expand Industrial Parks: Continue developing and marketing available sites to attract diverse industries.

Enhance Infrastructure: Invest in transportation and utility infrastructure to support business growth.

Promote Tourism: Leverage its coastal location and historical sites to boost the tourism sector.

By capitalizing on these opportunities, Georgetown County seeks to foster sustainable economic growth and improve the quality of life for its residents.