Forecasting the Future, South Carolina Style
If you want a peek at where South Carolina’s economy is heading, clear your calendar for December 11. The South Carolina Chamber of Commerce’s Economic Outlook Conference 2025 in Columbia is where the state’s top business minds, economists, and industry leaders gather to size up what’s coming next. Inflation, housing costs, interest rates, and the growing role of AI are all on the table. It’s a rare chance to hear directly from the people who shape the decisions behind your bottom line…and maybe pick up a few cues for 2026.
Big Picture, Bigger Questions
This year’s sessions are designed to unpack the biggest forces influencing South Carolina’s economy and help business leaders turn those insights into real strategy. From inflation to innovation, here’s what attendees can expect on stage:
- Inflation and housing take center stage: Rising costs and high mortgage rates continue to squeeze consumers and employers. Panelists will dig into how the housing crunch and tight credit conditions are changing the way companies plan for growth and hiring.
- Manufacturing under the microscope: South Carolina’s export-driven industries face new challenges from shifting tariffs and trade policy. Expect conversation around how automotive and aerospace manufacturers can stay competitive when global demand cools.
- AI and automation on the agenda: Artificial intelligence is moving fast, and businesses are racing to keep up. Experts will explore how automation could boost productivity while forcing companies to rethink their labor needs and training programs.
- Recession risk and the 2026 outlook: Economists from the University of South Carolina and the Federal Reserve will walk through data-driven forecasts for employment, growth, and consumer spending, giving business owners a clear sense of what to watch next year.
Event Details
- Date & Time: December 11, 2025 | 11:30 AM – 3:30 PM
- Location: Pastides Alumni Center, 900 Senate St., Columbia
- Speakers: Cody Thacker (Scout Motors), Laura Ullrich (Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond), Joseph Von Nessen and Douglas Woodward (University of South Carolina)
South Carolina’s economy is evolving fast, and staying informed has become a competitive advantage. The conversations happening at this conference help shape the choices that drive growth across every industry. For business owners and decision-makers, showing up means staying connected to the pulse of the state’s future.
See what else is shaping South Carolina’s business scene at guidetosouthcarolina.com/business-consulting!
