About Us

The Governor’s Office of Small & Minority Business Assistance (OSMBA) was created in 1979 by Executive Order. Enabling legislation was passed and the program was placed into law as outlined in Article 21 of the Code of Laws of South Carolina, 1981.


Mission

The mission of the Governor's Office of Small & Minority Business Assistance is to promote the interest of small and minority businesses as a part of the free enterprise system; thereby, enhancing economic growth and development in South Carolina.

OSMBA certifies that a South Carolina business is owned, controlled and operated by a socially and economically disadvantaged minority who is a US citizen. There are no loans, grants or guaranteed award of contracts associated with obtaining certification. Businesses are encouraged to participate in any agency’s bid process. Agency solicitations are advertised in the SC Business Opportunities (SCBO) publication issued by the Materials Management Office.

OSMBA Goals
  • To promote the growth and development of small and minority owned businesses in South Carolina.
  • To act as an advocate so that an equitable portion of State procurement contracts be awarded to small and minority owned businesses.
  • To advocate that an equitable portion of state procurement contracts is awarded to small minority businesses.
  • To encourage minority businesses that want state contracts to become certified.