Overall 2012 Scorecard results indicate that while the area's economy has gained ground relative to the nation in terms of personal income growth, there are underlying issues which still need attention. Greenville County's per capita income in 2010 was $33,917, significantly less than the national average of $39,937. If Greenville's income was on par with the national average, there would be $1.59 billion in extra spendable in our community each year. Expanded to the Upstate region, there would be over $11 billion.

According to Mike Riordan, CEO of the Greenville Hospital System University Medical Center and 2012 Chairman of the Greenville Chamber, "The Scorecard provides a tool for the community similar to what businesses employ in their own organizations. With a set of relevant metrics allowing the region to compare how it fares against competitor communities, we are better able to focus resources where they will make the most difference. While we may be uncomfortable at times because of the data, the report prompts the region's leadership to engage in a thoughtful conversation about how we can move our community forward."

In response to previous Scorecard results, the Chamber launched ACCELERATE!, an economic development initiative to address the lack of income competitiveness by focusing on key drivers of income growth: Human Capital, Innovative Activity, Entrepreneurial Environment, and Industry Strength. The business-led initiative provides critical funding and leadership to new development programs.

"The overall message of the 2012 Regional Economic Scorecard is that Greenville is making progress toward closing the per capita income gap and that we are situated for greater progress in the future. However, our position relative to some of our competition is not where we would like it to be," said Craig Brown, co-chair of ACCELERATE! "The good news is that business, community and political leaders are coming together to discuss and formulate an action plan of priority steps to address these issues. We will build on what has already been accomplished by the many organizations aligned with the goal of increasing income competitiveness."