Back Again in 2026

PALMETTO PANEL CONFERENCE RETURNS TO SC!

Ten years ago, when it came to government and governmental policy, most people were focused on national issues, but the founders of the Palmetto Panel Conference recognized that it was the policies at the state level of government that usually most impact citizens' lives. To that end, they hosted a full-day conference focused on issues vital to SC. Held at Clemson University, the Palmetto Panel Conference ran from 2015-2019 and provided solutions-oriented content in support of good governance.

Because states act as public policy laboratories and safeguard citizens against an overreaching national government, STATE POLICY MATTERS!

Today, with the emergence of AI, data centers, and rapid changes in energy, education, and healthcare, we believe a statewide conference is needed now more than ever, so it is with great excitement that we announce the return of the Palmetto Panel Conference, bringing in national speakers to once again present unique, solutions-oriented content.

Now centrally hosted in Columbia, Palmetto Panel 2026 will be a must-attend event for those who care deeply about the future direction of the Palmetto State.

Additionally, it will provide an excellent opportunity for citizens, elected officials, and group leaders from across the state to gather in person and build connection.

The day will end with a full panel discussion, offering YOU the opportunity to have your questions answered.

Please consider joining us for this one-day, non-partisan, thought-provoking and informative conference, with optional citizen civic training through the Center for Self Governance the following day.

 

Event Tickets

Registration Pricing

$80

Early Bird Registration
  • Continental Breakfast

  • Buffet Lunch

  • Afternoon Snack

  • Price before Feb. 20

Buy Tickets

$95

Standard Registration
  • Continental Breakfast

  • Buffet Lunch

  • Afternoon Snack

  • Price after Feb. 20

Buy Tickets

$250

Vendor Table
  • Showcase your organization, products, or services, and engage directly with attendees

  • Build relationships in a professional, non-partisan environment

  • Also includes breakfast, lunch and snack

Reserve Table
March 8, 2026 in Columbia, SC

Live Classes on Self Governance

Following the Palmetto Panel, the Center for Self Governance (CSG) will host two in-person classes in Columbia for students who want to move beyond political noise and develop a deeper, more practical understanding of self governance. These classes are designed for engaged citizens, parents, educators, community leaders, and anyone seeking clarity in an increasingly polarized political environment. Classes are conveniently located at the Melting Pot, 1410 Colonial Life Blvd W, Suite 130 Columbia, SC 29210 for Palmetto Panel attendees and local participants.

12:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Poli-Ticks: Living a Politically Disease-Free Life

Location: Melting Pot, Columbia, SC
Duration: 3 hours
Tuition: $40 per student

Modern politics often feels chaotic, emotionally charged, and divisive. This class helps students step back, regain clarity, and understand politics in a healthier, more grounded way.

What this class covers:

  • The difference between personal vs. impersonal politics

  • Partisan politics vs. systematic politics

  • Core structures of government and how they actually function

  • How government decisions affect individuals at the personal level

  • How to engage politically without becoming overwhelmed, reactive, or polarized

This is an ideal foundational course for anyone seeking political literacy without political exhaustion.

4:00 PM - 7:30 PM

History of Self Governance

Location: Melting Pot, Columbia, SC
Duration: 3.5 hours
Tuition: $40 per student

This course places today’s political and civic challenges in historical context by examining how self governance has been understood and practiced across time.

What this class explores:

  • The evolution of individual, relational, and societal self governance

  • Key historical successes and failures of self-governing systems

  • Where modern governance structures fall short

  • Why self governance remains essential in contemporary society

  • How historical patterns can inform better civic participation today

This class is especially valuable for students who want depth, perspective, and historical grounding beyond current headlines.

Training Location

  • Venue

    The Melting Pot

  • Address

    1410 Colonial Life Blvd W            Suite 130                              Columbia, SC

  • Get Directions