1 Million Cups · Weekly
1 Million Cups
Wednesday, October 28, 2026
The Midlands Innovation X-Change
We help entrepreneurs start and grow businesses
Columbia’s home for innovation and entrepreneurship — free one-on-one guidance, expert mentorship, and a community of founders across the Midlands of South Carolina.
Trusted by founders across the Midlands of South Carolina
$45M+
Total revenue generated by businesses participating in The MIX
67%
of MIX businesses say The MIX was critical in their success
650+
People employed by companies participating in The MIX
How we help
Everything you need to go from idea to launch
Personalized pathway
Get a clear roadmap from idea to launch, built around where you are today.
Expert mentorship
Access experienced business advisors and the Midlands' network of support organizations.
Community support
Connect with like-minded founders at 1 Million Cups, Founder Nights and more.
Sound familiar?
Feeling stuck trying to launch your business?
- Too many choices, not enough clarity
- Unsure where to find funding or guidance
- Overwhelmed by all the startup advice online
- Struggling to connect with other local entrepreneurs
We’ve helped hundreds of entrepreneurs overcome these same hurdles
Tell us about your idea in a free intake session and we’ll point you to the right next step — no cost, no pressure.
Start your free intake3 steps to launch your business
Complete the intake form
Start your journey with a free one-on-one intake session. We’ll listen to your goals, learn about your idea, and help you identify where you are in your business journey — so we can create a launch plan.
Discover your pathway
Every entrepreneur’s path is different. We’ll outline a personalized roadmap with the training, mentorship, and resources you need to move forward with confidence.
Get ready to launch
Put your plan into action with ongoing support from The MIX community. You’ll gain the clarity, tools, and encouragement to turn your idea into a thriving venture here in the heart of South Carolina.
Upcoming events
Meet the Midlands founder community
Community Event
Women in Business Alliance: Kitwanda Cyrus
Wednesday, October 28, 2026
RSVP to save your spot (opens in a new tab)Founder Night
Founder Night: Horse Race
Wednesday, November 11, 2026
Join a community of like-minded entrepreneurs
The MIX is where innovation and entrepreneurship meet in the Midlands — connecting local founders with mentors, resources, and each other so you can go from idea to launch with confidence.
Get started todayFounder stories
Your story could be next
The MIX is just getting started, and we’ll be sharing the stories of the founders we work with here. Building something with The MIX? We’d love to feature you.
For partners, mentors and sponsors
Are you part of an organization that supports entrepreneurs?
Whether you’re a seasoned mentor, a business leader, or an organization serving founders, there’s a place for you in the Midlands entrepreneurship community. Join a growing network that’s fueling innovation, launching ideas, creating jobs, and transforming lives across the region.
Get involved
