Free Workshop: Accounting Basics for Small Businesses

Are you unsure what the difference is between revenue, income, and profit? Do you know your business break-even? Have you ever had to look up what P&L or COGS means? If so, make sure to join the FMU Kelley Center for our Basic Accounting for Small Businesses Workshop this Wednesday. This free, in-person workshop will cover topics such as:

Accounting Terms, Common Financial Reports, How to Create a Business Budget and Accounting Tools.

Registration is limited to 20 attendees per time slot. Workshop will take place on Wednesday, May 13th at the FMU Kelley Center in Downtown Florence. There are 2 time slots to choose from. 12:00 PM or 5:30 PM.

For more information, click here.

Lifescaping Featured on ChamberLink Radio

Don Walter of Lifescaping was the Florence Chamber’s guest this past weekend talking about promoting leadership growth.

We encourage you to tune-in every Sunday from 12:00-12:30pm on LIVE 95.3FM in Florence, SC.

This program is brought to you by the Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce, MUSC Health Florence Medical Center and LIVE 95.3FM.

Looking for past ChamberLink Radio Show interviews? Click here:

https://www.flochamber.com/events-programs/podcasts/

Get Ready For The Best Fireworks Event Around The Pee Dee

You should probably go ahead and plan your July 4th this year centered on the fireworks display and music entertainment at the Florence Soccer Complex on East Palmetto Street. Make your July 4th family plans now.

For more information, click here.

Storm Ready Expo Happening May 16

Duke Energy is excited to invite you to their upcoming Storm Ready Expo on Saturday, May 16 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Florence County Complex Parking Lot! This event promises something for the whole family, with engaging children’s activities, a touch-a-truck experience, and a variety of delicious food trucks. Join them to learn valuable tips on staying safe during storms, enjoy some great food, and let the kids have fun exploring and participating.

If you are interested in being a vendor at the event, please click here to submit your application to Jessica Joe at the Florence County Emergency Management office. Deadline for submission is May 11.

Anderson Brothers Bank Breaks Ground on New Full-Service Branch in Sumter

Anderson Brothers Bank proudly celebrated the groundbreaking of its newest full-service branch in Sumter, South Carolina, marking another milestone in the bank’s continued growth across the state.

The ceremony took place at the future site of the branch, located at 2831 Broad Street in Sumter. The event brought together state and local dignitaries, community leaders, business representatives, and members of the Sumter Chamber of Commerce.

The new 5,164-square-foot full-service branch will further support Anderson Brothers Bank’s mission to serve local families, support small businesses, and contribute to the economic growth of the Sumter community.

To read the full press release, click here.

Last Week Was Big For SC Small Business

Last week was one of the most productive of the legislative sessions this year for our small business community, with several top priorities making big progress.

Early last week, SCMC led 33 business organizations in calling for the SC House to pass the SCDOT Modernization bill, which will help speed up road projects by years. Despite some opposition, the bill passed unanimously. The Florence Chamber signed on in support of that Modernization bill.

It was a week to remember for our small business community on Tuesday when the Small Business Regulatory Freedom Act (H.3021) and the Small Business Tax Cut of 2026 (H.5006) both advanced through Senate committees.

Florence Regional Airport Talks Expansions

The Florence Regional Airport announced expansion plans at an economic development luncheon, including adding another airline as the area continues to grow.

The expansions are part of the Florence Regional Airport’s ten-year strategic plan to revitalize the airport and boost economic growth in the Pee Dee.

To read the full story, click here.

Foster Care Clothing Closet to Host BBQ Fundraiser

It’s FCCC BBQ Time!!!  Mark your calendars, gather orders, and please send in those BBQ forms!

Tuesday, May 12th, 11am-2pm @ Roger’s BBQ! LOCAL deliveries for 7 or more! (10:30 school deliveries available) Drive-Thru Also Available!

Menu: Roger’s BBQ, Coleslaw, Rice & Red Gravy, Sweet Potato Souffle, Hushpuppies, and Banana Pudding

We want to THANK YOU ALL for the support you have given us over the years at the Foster Care Clothing Closet as we provide support to the foster families that open their hearts and homes to foster children needing to feel safe, valued, and a sense of belonging!

For more information, click here.

Tiny Steps Foundation Cuts Ribbon on Chamber Membership

Shanequa Joe of Tiny Steps Foundation along with Chamber Ambassadors cuts her ribbon joining the Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce.

Tiny Steps Foundation is tackling a hidden but critical issue in the Pee Dee, Diaper Insecurity and its rippling effect on our workforce, public health, and early childhood development.

When families don’t have diapers, parents miss work because childcare centers require them. Health risks increase. Early learning is disrupted before it even begins. Tiny Steps is stepping in with a no-barrier solution that keeps families moving forward.

Each month, Tiny Steps serves 200 plus families across Florence, Darlington, Marion, Dillon, Chesterfield, Williamsburg, and Marlboro counties, providing essential diapering supplies to those who need them.

To read the full story, click here.

2026 Best & Brightest 35 and Under Nominations Extended Deadline May 7th

Integrated Media Publishing’s Best and Brightest honors young professionals age 35 and under who are making a difference in their workplace and community. Recipients will be honored at an event in September and featured in the September issues of B2B: Pee Dee Business Magazine, Greenville Business Magazine, Columbia Business Monthly, Charleston Business Magazine and the B2B:Grand Strand Business Magazine.

Deadline: May 7th Please fill out this form in detail — judges use it to score work impact and community involvement. Questions? Email loric@indexx.com.