Palmetto Goodwill awards $60K to local businesses

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – Five Lowcountry business owners were awarded thousands of dollars last Friday after a ‘Shark Tank’- inspired showcase hosted by Palmetto Goodwill.

Five small business owners who were the top graduates of Palmetto Goodwill’s Microenterprise Accelerator Program (MAP) delivered their business pitches in front of three-panel judges hoping to win investment funding.

The three-panel judges were Herbert Drayton III, who is a managing partner at HI Mark Capital and former Palmetto Goodwill board chair; Michelle Woodhull, president at Charming Inns of Charleston and Palmetto Goodwill board member; and Jackie Berger, executive director at Lowcountry Local First. 

The top finalist was NeighborCuts Landscaping, run by Odius Bonneau. Bonneau was the first person in his family to attend college and become a homeowner. NeighborCuts is a community-driven company helping others meet their lawn goals.

Bonneau plans to use the $25,000 from Palmetto Goodwill to purchase equipment and hire additional staff.

Second place went to The Art Couple Parties & Events LLC, which is owned by Rostina Mincey, Palmetto Goodwill team member, and husband Eugene Hardin. The Art Couple does at-home paint parties, allowing anyone to experience the fun of painting.

The owners plan to use the $15,000 to enhance paint party experiences by adding new elements like a photo booth.

Sensational Spirits, owned by Kadeem Elmore, came in third. The premium mobile bar and beverage company services the tri-county area. The $10,000 awarded will go towards growing the Sensational Spirits brand and training new mixologists.

Indie video game development studio Sunset Studios, owned by Rodney Clay, is dedicated to creating immersive, story-driven games. The $5,000 will help fund the studio’s first developed game, Escape Mars. The game is currently set to launch in Fall 2026.

Paula Jenkins Home Inspections, owned by namesake Paula Jenkins, also received a $5,000 investment. Paula provides thorough inspections for buyers, sellers, investors, and homeowners. She plans to use her funding to market and grow her business.

The MAP program will be offered once again to team members, their families, and MAP program participants.