1890 Research & Extension SproutLab

The SC State SproutLab is a state-of-the-art container farm where research, innovation and agricultural discovery take root. This hands-on research hub empowers students to explore sustainable agriculture through cutting-edge methods like hydroponics, urban agriculture and vertical farming to tackle global food challenges. It’s a space where students will grow bold ideas alongside real crops— with the intent to nurture the next generation of food system leaders. From the lab to the land—with Bulldog grit— the SC State SproutLab will cultivate knowledge and grow bold futures, one sprout at a time.

When you give to the SC State SproutLab, you’re helping students grow—literally and academically. This container farm will give them real-world experience with sustainable agriculture, research and food systems. It’s a chance to turn a small space into a big opportunity, and to give student Bulldogs the tools to lead in agricultural science, innovation, and community impact.

Support for the SC State SproutLab will directly elevate academic excellence and research capacity in agriculture and environmental sciences. Students will benefit through hands-on, applied research experiences in a state-of-the-art, climate-controlled container farm— gaining experience in hydroponics, urban agriculture and vertical farming to tackle global food challenges. They will use the SproutLab for research, learning, and innovating (or sprouting) ideas that could change how we grow food. The SproutLab adds a living lab to the university’s research capacity, which can be designed to expand research opportunities and potentially community partnerships.