Venture Carolina, a nonprofit dedicated to bridging the funding gap between investors and entrepreneurs has once again partnered with the South Carolina Department of Commerce’s Office of Innovation, VentureSouth, and the South Carolina Jobs-Economic Development Authority (JEDA) to launch the 2023 Palmetto Venture Fellowship, a program designed to create more local accredited investors and expand risk-capital accessibility for early-stage startups in South Carolina.
Following its highly successful inaugural launch in 2022, the Palmetto Venture Fellowship, recently kicked off in Greenville with its 2023 class. The 30 fellows will meet three times throughout the year for two days of comprehensive education on the intricacies associated with early stage capital formation.
The curriculum consists of topics such as valuations, term sheets, capitalization tables, due diligence, board governance, and exit strategies. “The caliber of the 2023 class proves that South Carolina can assemble a group of business leaders that would rival any state in the country,” said Venture Carolina Executive Director Charlie Banks. “It is even more exciting that these individuals represent a tangible building block for the sustainability of South Carolina’s innovation economy. I was truly blown away at the combined talent and energy during our first gathering.”
Thomas Rhodes, President of The Rhodes Companies stated, “South Carolina has great potential to be a destination for entrepreneurs and growth capital. This cohort brings together a diverse group of people, all of whom are committed to our state and region. I am fortunate to be included.”
John Brice, Managing Partner of Poseidon Capital Ventures stated, “The program has already exceeded my expectations, even as an experienced venture investor. The community aspect coupled with the expert education provided by the facilitators is a unique opportunity and great add to any prospective venture investors and community builders across South Carolina.”
Rozalynn Goodwin, VP of the SC Hospital Association and successful entrepreneur stated, “It’s an honor to participate in this cohort of the Palmetto Venture Fellowship. I am excited about all we are learning and the relationships we are building to move South Carolina’s economy forward through innovation.”
The 2023 class of the Palmetto Venture Fellows was selected by a committee of business leaders and investors throughout South Carolina, in addition to nominations from the 2022 class of Palmetto Venture Fellows. The full class listing can be found on Venture Carolina's website.