The Greenville Chamber's South Carolina Business Accelerator Upstate (SCBA Upstate) celebrated the graduation of seven local business leaders on Thursday, June 25, during a ceremony at Flywheel Greenville.

The SCBA program equips small business owners with the tools, strategies and connections needed to scale their companies, strengthen operations and become more effective leaders. Led by program facilitator Wendell Jones, participants leverage the expertise of peer mentors and business coaches to develop a three-year Strategic Growth Action Plan.

The 2026 SCBA Upstate graduates are:
• Patrick S. Arnold, Trained To Go Transport, LLC
• Kay Bishop, Sparkle City Event Co.
• LaShonn Edmunds, CAIRS, LLC
• LaQuinta Magwood, Luxury Loc Dealers
• LaQuetta Magwood, Luxury Loc Dealers
• Wanda D. Pyles, Swamp Rabbit Homecare, LLC
• Shantell Wilkins, Wilkins & Associates Advisory Services

During the graduation ceremony, Wanda Pyles was presented the Excellence Award for her outstanding dedication and growth throughout the program.

"Congratulations to each of the 2026 SCBA Upstate graduates for the tenacity and dedication they have demonstrated by completing this rigorous program," said Carlos Phillips, President/CEO of the Greenville Chamber. "The SCBA Upstate program is essential to building stronger companies and creating the next generation of Upstate business leaders. These seven entrepreneurs have taken an important step toward scaling their business."

Beth Veach serves as the Chair of the Coach and Financial Experts for the Upstate program. James Bennett, Beth Bradley, Earl Gregorich, Celeste Purdie, Jensine Reeder and Jennifer Sutton also serve as business coaches. Financial expert volunteers include Telena Bolding, Rich Cleys, Bill Robinson, Antonio Smith and Scott Whelchel.

The Greenville Chamber launched the SCBA program in 2012 to help high-potential entrepreneurs build companies positioned for long-term growth. Program participants develop strategic growth plans, strengthen operational practices, expand professional networks, and gain access to mentors and coaches who can help accelerate their success. In 2021, the Greenville Chamber expanded the program statewide to the Midlands and Lowcountry markets by partnering with the Columbia and Charleston Chambers of Commerce.

Since its inception, the South Carolina Business Accelerator has graduated more than 150 business owners statewide.

The application for the 2027 program, which begins in January 2027, is now available on the Greenville Chamber website. To learn more about the program and to apply, visit greenvillechamber.org.