Press Release: July 25, 2025

The Spartanburg County Foundation is proud to announce a multi-year grant to Palmetto InnovaSphere, a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing life sciences, biotechnology, and digital health innovation across South Carolina and the Southeast. This strategic investment will support Palmetto InnovaSphere’s initiative to attract innovative life sciences companies to Spartanburg County fostering economic growth, educational advancement, and improved healthcare outcomes.

This is a $150,000 grant over a 3-year period from a legacy donor fund dedicated to medical research. The grant will enable Palmetto InnovaSphere to conduct comprehensive market analysis, develop targeted recruitment strategies, and collaborate with key stakeholders—including educational institutions, healthcare providers, and economic development agencies—to create a thriving ecosystem for life sciences companies in the region.

“lnnovaSphere’s mission to drive innovation and economic development in the bio-science sector presents a unique opportunity to bolster Spartanburg’s position as a leader in this field,” said Allen Smith, President/CEO of OneSpartanburg Inc. “By supporting InnovaSphere, the Spartanburg County Foundation is investing in an initiative that promises to deliver substantial benefits to the community, including job creation, educational opportunities, and enhanced economic mobility.”

Palmetto InnovaSphere is positioning to be a regionalized magnet that fosters and nurtures innovative life science companies towards commercialization and translation of new products to clinical practice. Palmetto InnovaSphere is already making an impact throught their recruitment of and work with projects such as AI Body, a digital physiology model for medical education; Project Eraser, a novel therapy for pancreatic cancer; Project Defend, a groundbreaking cancer vaccine and Project Rehab, a digital technology in mental health and PTSD working closely with Veterans and First-Respondeers. These efforts reflect the organization’s commitment to innovation and measurable impact.

In the first year of the initiative, Palmetto InnovaSphere will partner with USC Upstate’s Career Catalyst program to introduce students to career opportunities in the life sciences. In subsequent years, they are in discussions to expand the program to Wofford College, Spartanburg Community College, VCOM and Converse University.

 “InnovaSphere’s vision aligns with our commitment to advancing health and economic vitality across the region,” said Bruce Holstien, President and CEO of Spartanburg Regional Health System (SRHS). “Their focus on bioscience innovation not only strengthens our local healthcare ecosystem but also positions Spartanburg as a destination for cutting-edge research, high-quality jobs, and meaningful collaborations that elevate the well-being of our community.”

As this initiative unfolds, it promises to position Spartanburg as a regional hub for life sciences innovation. This multi-year collaboration reflects a shared vision for the future. By attracting leading-edge life sciences companies and expanding educational and economic opportunities, Palmetto InnovaSphere and the Spartanburg County Foundation are laying the groundwork for a healthier and more prosperous community for generations to come.

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The Spartanburg County Foundation is committed to improving the lives of all Spartanburg County residents by promoting philanthropy, encouraging community engagement, and responding to community needs. Established in 1943, the Spartanburg County Foundation is the oldest community foundation in South Carolina.