Columbia Area Development Partnership

Our leadership team, Jeff Ruble and Kate Bugby, joined MidlandsBiz's Who’s On The Move podcast to talk about what economic development really looks like in practice. Since launching in July 2025, the Columbia Area Development Partnership (CADP) has focused on one core mission: attracting investment, supporting existing employers, and creating the conditions for long-term economic growth in Richland County.

Because it’s not just about recruiting businesses; it’s about what happens after. Building sustainable, living-wage jobs, strengthening quality of life, and growing a tax base that supports the whole community.

Jeff and Kate also discussed how Richland County is changing, what businesses are looking for today, and how CADP’s approach is different. Give it a listen to hear how we are building for generations of impact in Richland County.

Listen now: https://whosonthemove.com/entrepreneur-minute-jeff-ruble-kate-bugby-columbia-area-development-partnership/

We aren’t focused on recruiting just any business - we’re focused on recruiting the right businesses for the Columbia region.

The kinds of companies that create high-quality jobs, invest long-term, and help build lasting momentum across our community.

This work has real impact. It helps expand the local tax base, supports infrastructure growth, and strengthens the schools, services, and resources our residents rely on every day.

For companies looking to grow, the Columbia region is more than a location - it's a place to build, scale, and succeed alongside partners committed to long-term success.

See who we've recruited and where we're focused for the future, https://columbiaareadevelopment.com/industries-announcements/

Congratulations to Scout Motors on the grand opening of its on-site training center in Blythewood. 🎉

This isn’t just a new facility - it’s a new model.

As the first on-site training center of its kind for a Columbia-area manufacturer, this partnership between Scout Motors and readySC SC Technical College System creates a direct, real-time connection between workforce training and production.

That matters.

Because it doesn’t just prepare talent for one company - it establishes a scalable approach for how industry and workforce partners can work together to build career pathways in advanced manufacturing across our region.

As Richland County continues to grow its manufacturing base, investments like this strengthen the entire economy - ensuring our workforce is ready to meet the moment.

Richland County

We’re proud to welcome Willoughby Humphrey & D'Antoni, PA as a new investor in the Columbia Area Development Partnership (CADP).

Their investment supports CADP’s mission to accelerate economic advancement across Richland County by attracting high-value industry and jobs, strengthening existing industries, and expanding opportunities for residents.

With public-private collaboration at its core, CADP is shaping a competitive, sustainable future — and we’re excited to have Willoughby Humphrey & D'Antoni partner in that work.

🔗 Learn more about investing with CADP: https://columbiaareadevelopment.com/about-us/invest-richland

With nearly 90 years in operation, the Columbia manufacturing site of US Brick has discovered the right mix to build its growing operation - passion + people.

See how company leaders and employees are working together to strengthen this company's foundation, https://columbiaareadevelopment.com/us-brick-columbia-where-careers-are-built

US Brick Columbia: Where Careers are Built • Columbia Area Development Partnership (CADP) During its special called meeting Tuesday, Richland County Council members approved the creation of a public-private economic development partnership (P3).

Every Saturday, the Columbia region comes alive at the nationally celebrated Soda City Market - ranked #1 in the nation and a reflection of our community’s energy and creativity.

From local farmers and makers to talented artists showcasing original work, it's not just a destination but a athering place that captures the spirit of Columbia. Come check out how you can for yourself.

Knowing what product is available and understanding their attributes are key to positioning the Columbia region for success.

We joined partners from NAI Columbia and S.C. Department of Commerce last week to tour 1627 Columbia College Drive for a closer look at the space we aim to fill with a new or expanding business for our community.

This flex warehouse space is located minutes from the heart of downtown Columbia, offering convenience to a large worker population and three major interstates - I-20, I-26, I-77. It's had recent interior and exterior improvements, like fresh paint, LED lighting, flooring, and fencing.

If you'd like to buy or lease, learn more ➡ https://tiny.giswebtechguru.com/29mzafsf

Partnership is critical to advancing the economic growth of the Columbia area. By bridging the gap between public and private sectors, CADP is building a stronger community for the citizens of today and the future.

Learn more, https://columbiaareadevelopment.com/