South Carolina Manufacturers Alliance, SC Chamber announce merger

The South Carolina Manufacturers Alliance (SCMA) and the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce announced the formation of a new advocacy organization, formally combining entities, resources and leadership effective Jan. 1, 2026.

The new organization, South Carolina Manufacturers and Commerce (SCMC), will be one of the largest advocacy organizations in the history of South Carolina.

“Combining SCMA and the SC Chamber offers a unique opportunity to speak with one strong voice for manufacturing and commerce in South Carolina, strengthening advocacy and programming that benefit all of us in the Palmetto State,” says Grant Burns, who will serve as chair of the new combined organization.

Burns and SC Chamber of Commerce Chair Thomas Rhodes led teams from both organizations in the merger discussions.

“This new, formal partnership represents an extraordinary moment to shape the future of South Carolina,” says Rhodes, who is a business owner, entrepreneur and partner at Rhodes Companies. “By bringing together two highly respected organizations into a single, influential voice for the business community, we will better serve our members, strengthen our ability to impact the decisions that affect our competitiveness and drive lasting economic growth. Together, we will position South Carolina as a place where business and industry not only thrive but lead the way for years to come.”

Sara Hazzard will be the president and CEO of SCMC. Hazzard has served as president and CEO of SCMA since 2018, and led SCMA government relations from 2004–2018.

“This is a transformational opportunity,” says Hazzard. “For more than a decade, team South Carolina, from the governor’s office to the legislature, from our great businesses to community leaders, has consistently broken economic development records. Now is the time to keep building on this momentum. When the business community speaks with one voice, when we combine our resources, and when we commit to working together like never before, we will out-compete our neighboring states and anyone around the country, for opportunities that lift up our families and communities.”

Read the press release here.