The South Carolina Young Entrepreneur Award was established in 2004 by SC Economics as a way to recognize outstanding elementary, middle, or high school students for their accomplishments in entrepreneurship. The award was created in support of South Carolina’s efforts for economic development: to raise the per capita income by nurturing innovation and collaboration to make the state more competitive in the knowledge-based economy. 

Each year, SC Economics recognizes five elementary, middle or high school students who demonstrate a keen entrepreneurial spirit. These young people have met the challenge of starting their own businesses, understand the costs and benefits of working for themselves, and are willing to share their experiences with their peers.