Fueling Growth and Sustainability where Small Business Meets Opportunity
At the Richland County Office of Small Business Opportunity (OSBO), we open the doors to growth for small businesses ready to compete and succeed. By streamlining access to government contracts, offering expert guidance, and connecting businesses with valuable resources, we help position small local enterprises for long-term success in both the public and private sectors. No matter your industry or background, if you're ready to do business, we're ready to help.
What We Do
- Certify eligible small businesses to participate in County contracting opportunities
- Help businesses understand and navigate government contracting processes
- Provide training, workshops, and one-on-one consulting for business development needs
- Host networking events and workshops
- Maintain a directory of certified Small Local Business Enterprises (SLBEs) for increased visibility
- Offer compliance support for businesses working on county-funded projects
Community Engagement
OSBO plays an active role in strengthening the local business ecosystem by building strong connections across public agencies, private industry, and the community. We collaborate with partners at the local, state, and federal levels to deliver high-impact workshops, outreach events, and business development programs. Our goal is to create an open and competitive environment where all qualified small businesses have access to the tools, relationships, and opportunities they need to succeed.
OSBO Certification Programs
Small Local Business Enterprise (SLBE)
Must be an independently owned and operated for-profit business
Must be located in Richland County
- Or 25% of employees must live in Richland County
- Or 50% of revenue must be generated in Richland County
Must have been operating for at least 1 year or obtains significant documented experience
Meets size standard eligibility requirements for Small Business Enterprises as defined below:
- Is not a broker
- Is not a subsidiary of another business
- Is not dominant in its field of operation
- Whose owners are actively involved in day-to-day management and control of the business
- And that also is performing a commercially useful function
The business must have no more than 50 full-time employees and must have been in business a minimum of 1 year
Emerging Small Local Business Enterprise (ESLBE)
An emerging firm that meets all of the qualifications of a Small Local Business Enterprise, and:
- Is less than five (5) years old
- Has no more than five (5) full-time employees
- Annual gross sales as averaged over the life of the firm are less than $1 million
SLBE Spotlight
We are proud to spotlight Roy’s Grille as our SLBE Business Highlight for September. Founded in 2014 by Chef Chris Williams, Roy’s Grille brings together authentic Southern cuisine, scratch-made barbecue, and a passion for creating memorable dining experiences. Located in Irmo, the restaurant was established as a tribute to Chef Williams’ late grandfather, Leroy Carter, and continues to honor that legacy through food inspired by family traditions and Southern roots.
Chef Chris Williams brings his passion for Southern cooking and culinary creativity to every aspect of Roy’s Grille. Inspired by the recipes and traditions his mother and grandmother passed down in Olar, South Carolina, Chef Chris is committed to making food from scratch, including the restaurant's barbecue sauces, spice rubs, and other signature items. From barbecue and brisket to burgers, soul food, and catering, Roy’s Grille offers bold flavors with a homestyle feel.
Chef Chris also recently showcased his culinary talents on Food Network’s Pitmasters competition in July 2026, giving him an exciting opportunity to share his barbecue expertise on a national platform.
Business Name: Roy’s Grille
Services: Southern cuisine, barbecue, dine-in, takeout, delivery, and catering
Owner: Chris Williams
Website: https://roysgrille.com/
Phone: (803) 359-0994
Why We Chose Roy’s Grille
We selected Roy’s Grille for this month’s spotlight because of Chef Chris Williams’ commitment to preserving Southern culinary traditions while continuing to grow and showcase his talents. His recent appearance on the Food Network’s Pitmasters, combined with his dedication to serving the local community, demonstrates how small businesses can build a strong local presence while gaining broader recognition.
Upcoming Events