Columbia, December 18, 2025
The recent acquisition by Sherman Residential in Charlotte underscores a trend of investment in the Carolinas, signaling strong economic momentum that bodes well for Columbia, SC. This development highlights Columbia’s increasing attractiveness as a hub for entrepreneurs and businesses, driven by local innovation and supportive resources. As the region experiences a surge in investment, the capital city is strategically poised for continued growth and success in the evolving business landscape.
Columbia, SC: Midwest Firm’s Reentry Signals Regional Growth, Benefits Columbia
A recent major real estate acquisition in Charlotte by a Midwest firm highlights robust investment trends across the Carolinas, offering insights for Columbia’s growing business landscape.
Columbia, SC, stands out as a vibrant city showcasing remarkable economic potential and fostering an entrepreneurial spirit. Our local economy, deeply rooted in the determination of South Carolina entrepreneurs, is a testament to the power of private investment and strategic development. The Carolinas are experiencing a dynamic period of economic expansion, attracting significant attention from financial institutions nationwide. This regional momentum underscores a broader confidence in the Southeast’s economic future, a confidence that resonates deeply within Columbia’s own growing business landscape. This blog post explores these trends and highlights how our city is positioned for continued success, driven by its resilient Columbia small business sector and proactive community engagement.
The continuous stream of innovation and strong local leadership within Columbia’s business community is largely dependent on sustaining Midlands economic growth. From technology startups to burgeoning service industries, local entrepreneurs are consistently finding new ways to meet market demands and create value. These innovative ventures, often fueled by private investment, are key drivers of job creation and economic diversification in the region. The city’s ability to attract and retain talent, coupled with an environment that minimizes unnecessary hurdles for businesses, contributes significantly to this growth.
Major Real Estate Investment in the Carolinas
In a significant development reflecting the vitality of the regional real estate market, Sherman Residential, a Chicago-based real estate firm, recently reentered the Charlotte, North Carolina, multifamily market. On September 29, 2025, the firm acquired the 348-unit Elan Research Park, a luxury multifamily community located near the University of North Carolina at Charlotte submarket and Research Park. This property, now rebranded as Axis at The Park, was originally built in 2023. Sherman Residential’s return to the Charlotte market follows a successful sale of another Charlotte asset earlier in the year, indicating sustained confidence in the area’s economic prospects.
This acquisition underscores a broader trend of significant investment in the Carolinas. Such moves by established firms signal robust market confidence and anticipate further growth across the region. The presence of major office spaces, including those occupied by companies like Wells Fargo, Vanguard, TIAA, and Atrium Health near the acquired property, highlights the economic drivers supporting these real estate ventures.
Regional Economic Momentum and Columbia’s Position
While this specific development occurred in a neighboring state, it reflects a larger pattern of investment in the Southeast that creates a dynamic economic environment, indirectly benefiting the entire region, including Columbia. Columbia, as the capital city, is strategically positioned within this energetic regional economy. Its central location and established infrastructure make it an attractive hub for various industries, complementing the financial growth seen in other parts of the Carolinas.
The greater Columbia region has become a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, making it an ideal location for startups to thrive. Supportive resources such as incubators, accelerators, funding access, and mentorship opportunities help promote economic growth and create a welcoming atmosphere for businesses of all sizes. The capital city region also offers a low cost of living and access to a talented workforce, making it an attractive option for entrepreneurs and businesses looking to establish themselves.
South Carolina’s Attractiveness for Capital Investment
South Carolina has demonstrated a strong appeal for capital investment, both from new businesses and through the reinvestment of existing industries. From January to December 2024, the state announced a total capital investment of $8.19 billion. Existing industries reinforced their commitment to South Carolina by reinvesting in the state through expansion projects, accounting for $5.38 billion of this announced capital investment.
This follows a robust 2023, where South Carolina achieved $9.22 billion in total capital investment, marking the second-largest amount in state history. This investment supported 81 projects and resulted in 14,120 announced jobs. These figures reflect the mutual dedication and commitment between South Carolina and its business community, underscoring the state’s unique value as a trusted partner for business success.
The Role of the Fifth Federal Reserve District
The economic health of the broader region, encompassing the Fifth Federal Reserve District (which includes South Carolina, Virginia, North Carolina, West Virginia, and Maryland), plays a crucial role in these investment decisions. Economic activity in the Fifth District grew modestly from early September, according to the Federal Reserve’s Beige Book. This report, compiled from anecdotal information and reports from business contacts, indicates slight increases in employment and an easing of price growth in recent weeks.
The Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond monitors economic issues affecting the Fifth District, and these observations provide context for the regional economic vitality that attracts investment. While South Carolina’s economy grew in 2025, it did so amidst some challenges such as a pullback in consumer spending, slower job growth, and increased business uncertainty due to ongoing trade negotiations. Despite these headwinds, the overall picture suggests a resilient regional economy that continues to draw significant private capital.
Fostering Growth Through a Pro-Business Environment
The sustained influx of private capital and the expansion of real estate firms highlight the importance of cultivating a favorable business environment. States and localities that prioritize limited regulation, efficient processes, and a supportive ecosystem for entrepreneurs tend to attract and retain investment. Soaring U.S. investments are often linked to factors like cheap and abundant energy Nationwide. This national trend, combined with local and state-level efforts to create a welcoming atmosphere for businesses, empowers economic growth and job creation.
Columbia and the surrounding Midlands area exemplify this approach, focusing on being “Startup Friendly” and providing a “Workforce Ready” environment. The collaboration among community leaders, local financial institutions, and entrepreneurs drives innovation and job creation, ensuring a robust future for the Richland County economy.
Conclusion
The reentry of a Midwest real estate firm into the Charlotte market is more than a single transaction; it is a clear indicator of the robust economic momentum sweeping across the Carolinas. This regional confidence, driven by significant capital investments and a vibrant entrepreneurial spirit, directly influences the positive trajectory of Columbia, SC. Our city’s commitment to supporting South Carolina entrepreneurs and fostering a favorable business environment positions the Richland County economy for continued strength and innovation. By staying engaged, supporting local enterprises, and advocating for policies that empower our business community to thrive, we can ensure a dynamic and prosperous future for the entire Midlands region.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What Midwest real estate firm recently reentered the Charlotte market?
- Sherman Residential, a Chicago-based real estate firm, recently reentered the Charlotte, North Carolina, multifamily market.
- What property did Sherman Residential acquire in Charlotte?
- Sherman Residential acquired the 348-unit Elan Research Park, a luxury multifamily community in Charlotte, North Carolina, which has been rebranded as Axis at The Park.
- When did this acquisition occur?
- The acquisition of Elan Research Park by Sherman Residential occurred on September 29, 2025.
- What is the significance of this acquisition for the Columbia, SC region?
- While the specific development occurred in a neighboring state, it reflects a larger pattern of investment in the Southeast that creates a dynamic economic environment, indirectly benefiting the entire region, including Columbia.
- What were South Carolina’s total capital investments in 2024?
- From January to December 2024, South Carolina announced a total capital investment of $8.19 billion.
- What was South Carolina’s total capital investment in 2023?
- In 2023, South Carolina achieved $9.22 billion in total capital investment, which was the second-largest amount in state history.
- What is the economic outlook for the Fifth Federal Reserve District?
- Economic activity in the Federal Reserve’s Fifth District (a multistate region including Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, West Virginia and Maryland) grew modestly from early September.
- What factors link soaring U.S. investments Nationwide?
- Soaring U.S. investments are often linked to factors like cheap and abundant energy Nationwide.
Key Features of Regional Economic Growth
| Feature | Description | Geographic Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Real Estate Investment | Sherman Residential, a Chicago-based firm, acquired the 348-unit luxury multifamily community Elan Research Park (now Axis at The Park) in Charlotte, North Carolina on September 29, 2025. | Charlotte, NC (Regional Impact) |
| South Carolina Capital Investment (2024) | Total announced capital investment of $8.19 billion from January to December 2024. Existing industries reinvested $5.38 billion. | State-level (South Carolina) |
| South Carolina Capital Investment (2023) | Total announced capital investment of $9.22 billion, the second-largest amount in state history, representing 81 projects and 14,120 announced jobs. | State-level (South Carolina) |
| Fifth Federal Reserve District Economic Activity | Modest economic growth observed from early September, with slight increases in employment and easing price growth. The district includes South Carolina, Virginia, North Carolina, West Virginia, and Maryland. | Regional (Fifth Federal Reserve District) |
| Columbia/Midlands Entrepreneurial Environment | Considered a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, offering supportive resources, a low cost of living, and access to a talented workforce. | Local/Regional (Columbia, SC and Midlands) |
| Drivers of U.S. Investment | Soaring U.S. investments are often linked to factors like cheap and abundant energy. | Nationwide |
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Author: HERE Charlotte
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