SCMEP reports economic impact over $2B.

TheSouth Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership, or SCMEP, had a statewide economic impact of $2.82 billion in 2018, an increase from $2.45 million in 2017, according to a news release.

All companies that engage in projects with SCMEP are surveyed to demonstrate both quantitative and qualitative impacts on how the organization helps manufacturers improve their performance and achieve their goals. This impact is measured quarterly, and reported annually, in terms of dollars earned, saved and invested, the release said.

"This milestone proves SCMEP's dedication to its mission of helping South Carolina companies grow. The significance of reaching this ground-breaking economic impact is remarkable and we look forward to continuing our work throughout the state," Chuck Spangler, SCMEP president, said in the release.

SCMEP's client companies are surveyed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology through an independent third-party organization. "Obtaining the objective data ensures that SCMEP stays on target in working to...