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History

History

The Minority Economic Development Institute (MEDII) was established in 2007 as a non-profit organization with a mission to foster economic development in minority communities across South Carolina. Our goal is to empower and support minority-owned businesses and individuals by providing them with the resources and tools necessary to thrive in the marketplace.

We operate primarily in the Upstate region of South Carolina, with our main location situated in Greenville. At MEDII, we believe that increasing the economic assets of minorities is critical to promoting diversity and inclusion, reducing poverty, and creating sustainable economic growth in our communities.

To achieve our objectives, we have developed a range of programs and initiatives, including Business Development, Research, Policy and Advocacy, and Education and Training. Our Business Development program provides training and mentoring services to help entrepreneurs launch and grow successful businesses. Our Research program conducts studies and analyses to identify opportunities and challenges facing minority-owned businesses and communities, and to develop evidence-based solutions. Our Policy and Advocacy program works to advance policies and regulations that promote economic equity and inclusion, and to address systemic barriers and challenges facing minority-owned businesses. Our Education and Training program provides workshops, seminars, and training programs to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the marketplace.

Overall, MEDII is committed to advancing economic equity and opportunity for minority communities in South Carolina, and we invite you to join us in our mission.

Board of Directors

Merl F. Code, Esq.
Attorney and Director of Diversity,
Ogletree Deakins Nash Smoak and Stewart

Robert Chandler
IG Global Sourcing, LLC

Fred Garrett, Sr.
Watkins Garrett & Woods Mortuary

Robert Henderson
Visions2Destiny Transportation Services

Rajeev Jindal
Bunty, LLC

Shawn McCullough
ML Builders, Inc.

S.T. Peden
Chairman/CEO MEDII

Michael M. Simpson
Michael M. Simpson and Associates

Ava Smith
Flat Fee Hiring