About
Spaces & Support - Columbia Economic Development operates the Boyd Innovation Center (BIC), powered by GrowCo, positioned as an inclusive, founder-led startup community headquartered in Columbia, South Carolina. Located at 1122 Lady Street in the Expansive Main Street district, the organization functions as a destination for forward-thinking entrepreneurs and innovators to develop and validate ideas. The initiative is structured around community-driven startup support rather than traditional venture capital deployment. The BIC emphasizes accessibility and inclusivity in its founder programming, creating an environment where diverse entrepreneurs can access resources, mentorship, and peer networks. As part of Columbia's broader economic development infrastructure, the organization connects founders with local business support systems and resources. The center serves as a hub for early-stage idea validation and community building, positioning itself at the intersection of economic development policy and entrepreneurial support. Members gain access to physical workspace, community events, and connections within Columbia's entrepreneurial ecosystem. The organization's model reflects a shift toward inclusive startup infrastructure that prioritizes founder diversity and community participation over traditional venture returns.