Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd’s Will Johnson Named to SB&D’s Southern Economic Development “Hall of Fame”
September 09, 2025
Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd P.A. is pleased to announce that shareholder Will Johnson has been named to the Southern Economic Development “Hall of Fame” (volume 2) by Southern Business & Development (SB&D).
The Hall of Fame recognizes leaders whose contributions have transformed the South into one of the world’s largest economies over the past 70 years. Honorees are selected based on their success in advancing major economic development projects, their long-term community impact and their leadership across the profession.
As leader of HSB’s Economic Development Practice Group, Will has helped facilitate more than $10 billion in capital investment in South Carolina. He represents domestic and international companies establishing or expanding their operations in the state, handling fee-in-lieu-of-tax agreements, structuring special source revenue credit arrangements and advising on economic development incentives such as job development and tax credits, state and local grants, and redevelopment acts. Will also works with numerous local governments in administering incentive programs and compliance matters.
“Will’s collaborative approach, deep understanding of incentive structures and commitment to client service have established him as a trusted resource for economic development professionals throughout South Carolina,” said Nick Nicholson, HSB’s managing director. “This recognition reflects the lasting impact of his work in advancing economic growth across the region.”
Will’s accomplishments have been widely recognized throughout his career. Earlier this year, he was named to SB&D’s Under 50 to Watch list (Volume 3, Winter 2025), and Best Lawyers named him Columbia’s Economic Development “Lawyer of the Year” in both 2019 and 2025.
A native of Lake City, South Carolina, Will is active in the community through his longtime support of Special Olympics South Carolina. He has served two terms on the board of directors and created a statewide partnership between the South Carolina Bar Young Lawyers Division and the organization.
As leader of HSB’s Economic Development Practice Group, Will has helped facilitate more than $10 billion in capital investment in South Carolina. He represents domestic and international companies establishing or expanding their operations in the state, handling fee-in-lieu-of-tax agreements, structuring special source revenue credit arrangements and advising on economic development incentives such as job development and tax credits, state and local grants, and redevelopment acts. Will also works with numerous local governments in administering incentive programs and compliance matters.
“Will’s collaborative approach, deep understanding of incentive structures and commitment to client service have established him as a trusted resource for economic development professionals throughout South Carolina,” said Nick Nicholson, HSB’s managing director. “This recognition reflects the lasting impact of his work in advancing economic growth across the region.”
Will’s accomplishments have been widely recognized throughout his career. Earlier this year, he was named to SB&D’s Under 50 to Watch list (Volume 3, Winter 2025), and Best Lawyers named him Columbia’s Economic Development “Lawyer of the Year” in both 2019 and 2025.
A native of Lake City, South Carolina, Will is active in the community through his longtime support of Special Olympics South Carolina. He has served two terms on the board of directors and created a statewide partnership between the South Carolina Bar Young Lawyers Division and the organization.
