CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – The South Carolina Research Authority announced a funding opportunity available to tech startups focused on improving rural health access on Wednesday.

The Tech Catalyst Fund is one of five initiatives within the state’s Rural Health Transformation Program. The program is brought to life by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and the South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services.

SCRA was chosen to administer the Tech Catalyst Fund by SCDHHS due to its expertise in fostering innovation, supporting startups, and driving economic development through investments.

“We look forward to partnering with SCRA to promote consumer-facing, technology-driven solutions to drive development and innovation across rural South Carolina,” said SCDHHS Director Eunice Medina. 

Non-dilutive funding will be provided to awarded tech startups that address the unmet needs in rural South Carolina, specifically focused on prevention and management of chronic diseases, while increasing quality, affordability, and access to care.

“The Tech Catalyst Fund will drive the development and deployment of medical innovations, bringing meaningful change to those who need it most,” said Bill Kirkland, SCRA President and CEO.

Prospective startups will have until June 25 to apply for this funding opportunity, after which a series of evaluations will take place. More information about eligibility can be found here.

The Clarendon County coroner identified the woman who died after being struck by an airborne umbrella during strong winds at a Lake Marion restaurant Saturday night.

A night out at Driftwood Grill on Lake Marion turned deadly Saturday just after 7:30, when Clarendon County dispatch got a call that a woman was unresponsive after being struck by a flying umbrella during sudden strong winds.

When first responders arrived, they found 56-year-old Dana Weigner with injuries to her head and neck. EMS worked to save her life on scene, but the coroner said she could not be revived.

The restaurant, Driftwood Grill: Home of the Lazy Gator, sits near the Palmetto Shores Campground on Lake Marion.

Jacqueline Blackwell, the coroner for Clarendon County, said strong wind gusts were reported at the time and is now working with emergency managers to review official weather data from Saturday night.

“It was a strong, strong wind, like a microburst that came through and knocked not just the umbrella. It knocked all of the furniture and other debris came onto where they were sitting,” Blackwell said.

Investigators said Weigner was at the restaurant with her husband and other family members when it happened.

“It was very emotional for him,” Blackwell said. “I spoke with the owners of the restaurant, and they say all the family members were gathered there as well. They were there eating; they had a large crowd.”

Restaurant owners declined to speak to reporters out of respect for the family but did mention grief counseling has been offered to staff, family and the community.

In a post online they shared, “Out of respect for the family and those impacted, we ask for continued prayers, compassion and privacy during this incredibly difficult time.”

“This is not an everyday occurrence,” Blackwell said. “This is just one of those tragic things that happens.”