Community Garden is finalist for prestigious grant

### About Ten at the Top: Comprised of public, private, and civic leaders from across the ten-county Upstate South Carolina Region, Ten at the Top was created to connect and encourage regional collaboration through data-driven research and regular convening of leaders and citizens to address key issues facing the region. Ten at the Top works with regional partners to foster collaboration and strategic planning to enhance the economic vitality and quality of life for Upstate residents both today and as the region continues to grow. ”

Greenville -- Ten at the Top has selected the five finalists for the 2025 Hughes Investments Elevate Upstate Grants. The three recipients will be announced during Ten at the Top’s annual Celebrating Upstate Successes event to be held on November 19, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in downtown Greenville from 9:30 a.m-11:30 a.m.

Since 2013, the Hughes Investments Elevate Upstate Grants has annually provided financial support for community-based projects that promote vibrancy. More than 40 projects across all 10 Upstate counties have been funded over the last 13 years. 

The five 2025 finalists were selected from an initial pool of 24 applicants. During the event, each finalist will give a brief presentation about their project. Three winners will be selected and receive $5,000 each to help fund their project. 

This year's finalists are:

• Abbeville County Chamber of Commerce – Porchfest Abbeville (Abbeville) Promoting local talent, the festival will feature a dynamic musical lineup, with food vendors, and activities for all ages encouraging community pride. 
• Clinton Community Garden Project – The Clinton Community Garden Project (Clinton) The Clinton Community Garden Project is an all-volunteer 501(c)3 Organization, with the goal of uplifting the community through fresh, nutritious food.
• Girls on the Run Upstate SC (GOTR) – GOTR Groove Spring Fling (Spartanburg) GORT Groove Spring Fling is a community-centered dance party that will raise awareness and serve as a fundraiser for GOTR’s youth development program. 
• Town of Pacolet – Pacolet Landing Kayak Launch (Pacolet) 

The Pacolet Landing Kayak Launch will provide a safe space for paddlers to enjoy the scenic Pacolet River, while simultaneously protecting the natural habitats of the river’s wildlife. 

• Walt’s Waltz – Bridgeway Beckons: A Renaissance of Hope and Community (Greenville) 

This Renaissance themed event for all ages will strengthen community ties, in a stigma-free environment that fosters hope and healing in the community. 

 “Since 2013 the Hughes Investments Elevate Upstate Grants have helped cities, towns, and neighborhoods within every county in the Upstate increase vibrancy and sense of place for the residents of their communities,” said Dean Hybl, Executive Director of Ten at the Top. “There are always far more great applicants for the grants than there's available funds, making it a very competitive process. This year was no different, as it was quite a challenge to narrow from 24 applicants down to five finalists.” 

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