Palmetto Axes | Application Preview
Palmetto Axes, a veteran-owned recreational business in Bluffton, SC, is applying for a $75,000 government grant to stabilize operations, invest in sustainable growth, and expand community outreach. The funds will be used to reduce high-interest debt, offset rising operating costs, improve visibility through signage, enhance services, and launch targeted marketing campaigns. A portion will also be reserved for emergencies.
The business has a five-year growth plan focused on increasing foot traffic, streamlining operations, launching a mobile axe-throwing service, and ultimately expanding to a second location. The plan includes introducing new activities like cornhole, merchandise, and enhanced web booking capabilities, while building a loyal customer base through leagues, VIP memberships, and community events. By year five, they aim to serve over 6,000 annual customers and employ up to 10 staff.
Founded by a 20-year U.S. Army veteran who is 100% disabled, Palmetto Axes was created as more than a business—it’s a mission-driven space for veterans and the local community to gather, heal, and connect. The owners view the grant as an investment in a community-oriented venue that supports mental health, veteran reintegration, and economic development.
Though there's competition from larger entertainment centers offering axe throwing among various attractions, Palmetto Axes differentiates itself with specialized coaching, a strong veteran support mission, local involvement, and a mobile unit for off-site events. The grant would help them build on this unique identity and expand their impact.
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General Information
Business Registration Number: Palmetto Axes LLC
Location: Bluffton, SC, United States
Length of Operation: 1-5
Number of Employees: 1-10 Employees
Annual Gross Income: $100k to $250k
Annual Gross Expense: $100k to $250k
Open to Loans: NO
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Funding Usage
We are requesting $75,000 in grant funding to stabilize operations, invest in sustainable growth, and enhance community engagement. Specifically, the grant will be allocated as follows: 1. Business Stabilization – $25,000 Reduce high-interest loan principal to lower monthly payments Offset rising utility and inventory costs Provide operating capital during off-peak months 2. Strategic Growth Investments – $25,000 Install a professionally designed and permitted road-facing sign to increase visibility and foot traffic Expand offerings (cornhole, merchandise, tournaments) to diversify revenue Improve booking system and website to streamline customer experience Add additional recreational features to attract repeat visitors 3. Marketing and Outreach – $10,000 Launch a targeted digital and local marketing campaign Sponsor community events, leagues, and local partnerships Enhance social media and search engine presence 4. Contingency and Emergency Reserve – $5,000 Cover unanticipated costs such as equipment repairs or shortfalls during seasonal fluctuations
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Business Plan
Year 1 – Stabilization & Visibility Goal: Strengthen financial footing and increase foot traffic. Pay down a portion of the loan to reduce monthly payments and free up cash flow. Install a large, professionally designed road sign to draw in passing traffic. Launch digital and local marketing campaigns (social media, geotargeted ads, local sponsors). Offer promotional packages (birthday events, family nights, military discounts). Expand offerings to include cornhole and merchandise sales. Host monthly tournaments and themed events to increase engagement and repeat visits. ➡ Expected Outcome: 15–20% increase in annual customers (~3,450–3,600) Year 2 – Streamlined Operations & Mobile Expansion Goal: Improve operational efficiency and begin off-site event services. Improve booking system and website to handle group reservations and e-gift cards. Purchase a mobile trailer or upgrade existing for enhanced off-site revenue. Build relationships with local schools, military bases, corporate offices for mobile bookings. Cross-train staff for mobile event support and in-house efficiency. ➡ Expected Outcome: Launch mobile revenue stream; grow annual customers to 4,000+. Year 3 – Diversification & Customer Retention Goal: Turn Palmetto Axes into a competitive social venue and regional destination. Expand drink menu and add Bar and Tables for social gatherings. Axe throwing leagues with seasonal prizes and exclusive perks. Develop VIP memberships (discounts, early booking, league access). Host fundraisers and partner with veteran organizations or first responder groups. ➡ Expected Outcome: Establish a strong customer base and membership program. Projected annual growth to 4,500–5,000 customers. Year 4 – Regional Branding & Replication Goal: Establish Palmetto Axes as a known name in recreational entertainment across the region. Begin branding efforts to position the business for franchise/licensing or multiple locations. Explore potential new venue in another SC or GA location. Partner with local tourism boards for inclusion in event/tourist brochures and packages. Continue to offer branded merchandise (shirts, hats, throwing gear). ➡ Expected Outcome: Expanded brand awareness and feasibility assessment for second location. Year 5 – Scale & Sustainability Goal: Expand operations while maintaining profitability and quality. Open second location OR invest in full-time mobile event team. Apply for state and regional small business awards and development grants. Employ 5–10 part-time and full-time staff across all functions. Maintain positive cash flow with expanded customer base and diversified revenue (venue + mobile + merch). ➡ Expected Outcome: Financially sustainable, regionally recognized business serving 6,000+ customers annually. As a 20-year U.S. Army veteran, I’ve spent my life serving others—whether in combat, leadership, or mentorship roles. I retired as a Master Sergeant with four years in combat operations and carry with me the physical and emotional weight of that service, being 100% permanently and totally disabled. But I’ve never let that stop me from continuing to give back. My wife, a dedicated medical assistant at an orthopedic office, and we have raised five children who now serve their communities in meaningful ways—through the military, manufacturing, HVAC, animal care, and one who’s about to graduate high school. Service runs deep in our family. We purchased Palmetto Axes not just to be business owners, but to provide a mission: to build a place where people—especially veterans—can gather, feel safe, reconnect, and have real, healthy fun. For many veterans, transitioning to civilian life is incredibly difficult, and isolation is a major issue. This venue isn’t just about throwing axes—it’s about throwing stress, pain, and loneliness into the wood, one bullseye at a time. We keep our doors open with pride, but it's hard. The overhead is high, and while we have a loyal customer base, we need help to grow into the kind of community hub we envision—where veterans, first responders, families, and locals can gather, play, laugh, and heal. Receiving this grant would not just sustain our operations—it would allow us to: Make the venue more visible and accessible through signage and outreach Offer low- or no-cost events for veterans and their families Expand services and hire others who need a second chance or a first opportunity Turn our dream of a veteran-supported community space into a lasting legacy I didn’t nor want to serve my country for recognition. I did it because I believe in people...and I still do! This grant isn’t about charity. It’s about investing in a mission led by someone who has already spent a lifetime proving they show up, step up, and never back down.
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Self Identified Competition
In Bluffton, SC, while Palmetto Axes LLC is the sole dedicated axe throwing venue, several other recreational establishments offer alternative entertainment options. Indy Karting & Amusement Location: 71 Towne Drive, Bluffton, SC Indy Karting is a multifaceted entertainment center offering indoor karting, arcade games, duckpin bowling, and axe throwing. Their axe throwing experience includes interactive projected targets with various games like Tic-Tac-Toe and Zombie Hunter, catering to a broad audience seeking diverse entertainment options. Station 300 Bluffton Location: 25 Innovation Drive, Bluffton, SC Overview: Station 300 is a comprehensive family entertainment center featuring 24 bowling lanes, a large arcade, full-service grill, and bar. They host league bowling, birthday parties, and special events, appealing to a broad demographic seeking diverse entertainment options. Buckwalter Recreation Center Location: 905 Buckwalter Parkway, Bluffton, SC Operated by Beaufort County Parks and Recreation, this facility offers indoor basketball courts, racquetball courts, a weight room, and outdoor amenities like soccer fields and a skate park. It serves as a hub for community sports leagues and fitness programs. Bluffton Recreation Center Location: 61-B Ulmer Road, Bluffton, SC This center provides a gymnasium, outdoor basketball and volleyball courts, pickleball courts, and a playground. It caters to various age groups with programs ranging from youth sports to senior activities, fostering community engagement through recreation. Palmetto Axes distinguishes itself by offering a unique, focused experience centered around axe and knife throwing, with a mission-driven approach emphasizing veteran support and community involvement. Unlike multi-activity centers, Palmetto Axes provides specialized coaching, hosts leagues and tournaments, and offers a mobile axe throwing trailer for events, creating a niche appeal for those seeking a distinctive recreational activity.
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Contact Applicant
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