Economic Edge: HCEDA's Summer Interns, Upcoming Events, and Inspiring Howard County Business Stories

August 30, 2023

HCEDA doesn't just help businesses today – we're also focused on what they'll need tomorrow. We're dedicated to preparing the next generation of workers to handle today's challenges and the uncertainties of the future. When a community values internships and provides its young professionals opportunities to learn and grow, we cultivate a workforce capable of driving sustainable development.

Internships offer a unique opportunity to gain practical experience that bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application. They contribute to the development of a skilled workforce, laying the foundation for a competitive and adaptable county. For this reason, I am pleased to share that HCEDA recently hosted four interns who made significant contributions across various departments, including strategy, marketing, and business development. You can read more about their experiences below.

For those interested in participating in a fall internship and contributing to the growth of our community, I invite you to submit your resume to mdkimmie@howardcountymd.gov.

Together, we can pave the way for a stronger, more resilient community—one that thrives through the empowerment of its young professionals.

Sincerely,

Jennifer Jones
CEO, Howard County Economic Development Authority

Our Mission: The mission of the Howard County Economic Development Authority is to promote economic growth and stability in Howard County by supporting existing businesses, attracting targeted new businesses, and attracting corporate and/or regional headquarters; to serve as the liaison between public and private economic development and planning organizations; and to recommend policies to County government that support the achievement of planned economic goals.

Meet HCEDA's 2023 Summer Interns

This summer, HCEDA had four interns who worked in different departments - strategy, marketing, and business development. Pictured above from left to right: Hiya Patel, Samantha Dixon, and Amel Lightfoot. The photo on the right features Anya Thakrar, a student at Mt. Hebron High School. Learn more about each intern and their experiences below:

Amel Lightfoot, a graduate of Oakland Mills '20 and currently pursuing Economics with a Peace Studies minor at Goucher College '24, reflects, "My internship with HCEDA was valuable because it taught me the importance of taking initiative on tasks and holding myself accountable for completing my work in a timely manner. I also became more skilled in Microsoft Excel, along with making valuable connections that I will maintain for years to come. Although my time at HCEDA was short, it was truly a transformative experience for me because I absorbed every moment of it and took in so much wisdom from my amazing mentors, Kierra, Zach, and Jason."

Hiya Patel, a student of Mount Hebron '22 and pursuing Financial Economics at UMBC '27, shares, "Throughout my time at the Howard County Economic Development Authority, I had the privilege of working with an amazing mentor, Zachary Jones, who really helped me explore my interests and take them a step further. While I interned with the HCEDA, I was able to pursue a capstone project pertaining to AI and its effect on businesses. I was able to take my research a step further and bring it back to how different industries in Howard County could be affected by the rise of artificial intelligence. I believe this project made my experience at the HCEDA very valuable."

Samantha Dixon, a Glenelg High School '22 graduate and currently studying Agriculture Business at Joilet Junior College '24, recounts, "My time as an intern for HCEDA was a tremendous experience. Since I was only around the livestock and crop side of agriculture, I wanted to experience the business side as well. I was able to write so many articles and interview so many people from all across Howard County. Not only that, but I also understood more of the business side of things with working with clients and attempting to help them in anyway I can."

Anya Thakrar, a Mt. Hebron '24 student, attests to the value of her HCEDA internship, even as a high school attendee. She reflects, "An internship with HCEDA was valuable because it provided a hands-on experience in economic development, insights into local business strategies, and an opportunity to contribute to Howard County’s growth and prosperity. Working on real projects and collaborating with professionals in the field helped me understand economic trends and build meaningful connections within the community."

Celebrating Women’s Equality Day

Hosted by the Office of Human Rights and Equity (OHRE), Women's Equality Day took place on Thursday, August 24th, with attendees including HCEDA team members, County Council members, Maryland General Assembly members, county department and community leaders, along with the public, gathering at the Howard County Conservancy to honor the journey and achievements of women from various backgrounds. During the celebration, Delegate Pam Guzzone, Senator Clarence Lam, and others presented a citation to Howard County in recognition of the occasion, while Dr. Kelly Clark, Chief Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging Officer of the Howard County Library System, delivered the keynote address. Pictured above (left) are Delegate Pam Guzzone, Delegate Jessica Feldmark, Senator Clarence Lam; and (right) Marla Moore, OHRE and Ani Begay-Auld, Commissioner on Indian Affairs & Advocate for Native Rights.

Business Appreciation Week |

October 23-27, 2023

Participate in Howard County's Business Appreciation Week, an opportunity for businesses of all sizes and industries to connect with ambassador teams, share experiences, and contribute to enhancing the local business environment in collaboration with HCEDA and County Executive Calvin Ball.

HCEDA Open House | October 26 from

9-12 PM

During Business Appreciation Week, HCEDA is hosting an expo-style resource fair where business owners can access information on HCEDA's services and programs, connect with the business development team and mentors, and explore initiatives like the Catalyst Fund and New LIFT Microloan Fund, along with a guided tour of the Maryland Innovation Center.

Business Disaster Preparedness Workshop | October 11 from 9-11 AM

Get ready for the unexpected at our Business Disaster Preparedness Workshop, hosted by Howard County Office of Emergency Management (OEM) and Howard County Economic Development Authority (EDA), covering resources, tips, and template-guided emergency planning for business owners.

Learn More

Veteran Owned Small Business Expo

| October 28 from 10-2 PM

The inaugural Veteran Owned Small Biz Expo, hosted by the Office of Veterans and Military Families (OVMF), commemorates Howard County Business Appreciation Week and National Veteran’s Small Business Appreciation Week, welcoming 40 veteran, active duty, or military spouse owned businesses to showcase their ventures as vendors and sponsors. The event will also include live entertainment, food, and engaging activities.

The Strategic Impact of Loans for Small Businesses

Business loans are pivotal financial tools, empowering small businesses to unleash their full potential. Beyond immediate gains, repaying loans creates a strong credit history, aiding in future loan eligibility. Loans, particularly microloans, are accessible and versatile, unlike grants that are limited in use and duration. Loans also help establish positive lender relationships, crucial for future capital needs. Most importantly, loans drive business growth by offering flexible funds for expansion, a contrast to grants covering specific short-term expenses. In short, loans aren't just tools; they're strategic assets fortifying today and propelling towards enduring success and expansion.

HCEDA is committed to providing vital business resources for establishing and nurturing successful businesses. Our business finance programs serve as solutions to financial challenges while providing flexible access to capital to Howard County businesses. Learn more about our loan programs below!

Learn More About the LIFT Fund

Learn More About the Catalyst Fund

Howard County Business Success Story:

Xcision Medical Systems, LLC

At the forefront of medical innovation, Xcision Medical Systems, LLC pioneers state-of-the-art cancer care technology. Their expertise lies in advanced stereotactic radiotherapy, elevating the standard of treatment. With a mission to enhance both the quality of care and the lives of patients and their families, Xcision's groundbreaking technology shines as a beacon of hope in the battle against cancer.

As a recipient of HCEDA's Catalyst Fund, Xcision has experienced remarkable business expansion, extending its reach to international markets.

Dr. Cedric Yu, President and CEO of Xcision, says, "Xcision Medical Systems, LLC has always been in Howard County since its founding in 2006. Among other support from the county, the Catalyst Fund enabled us to expand into international markets and increase sales, allowing our unique non-invasive radiotherapy to benefit more women suffering from breast cancer."

With dedication to innovation, patient well-being, and collaborative progress, Xcision is poised to continue revolutionizing cancer care and leaving a mark on the world of medical technology. Pictured above are County Executive Calvin Ball (left) and Dr. Cedric Yu (right).

Agricultural Innovation Grants

The Enhanced Agricultural Grant (EAG) pilot offers funding for programming, research, and capital investments for applicants that facilitate the expansion, sustainability, and education of Howard County agriculture. The EAG combined with HCEDA’s Agricultural Grants for Innovation and Expansion (AGIE) will allow farmers will foster increased growth through innovation and leave a legacy of agriculture for the future.

Derek Patrick of Sunflowers of Lisbon says, “Thanks to Kathy Johnson and the HCEDA team, our sunflower business Sunflowers of Lisbon has been able to expand and adapt to the changing times in 2023. Through this grant program we are able to pivot our business in whatever direction we need to go to continue to be successful in the ever- changing agriculture or world. With less and less ground and less and less farmers this is a great program to help what Farmers we have stay viable!”

Learn About the MIC

About the MIC

Operating under the umbrella of the Howard County Economic Development Authority, the Maryland Innovation Center (MIC) is an innovation hub offering a robust support system for both budding and established entrepreneurs. Its comprehensive blend of mentorship, partnerships, and resources acts as a catalyst for economic growth and prosperity, propelling the advancement of its members.

Empowering Lives: The Inspiring Story of MIC Resident, Social Capital Builders

Ed DeJesus, a Bronx native, best-selling author, W.K. Kellogg Foundation National Fellow, and MIC Entrepreneur in Residence, embodies the incredible power of social capital. As a teen father, he confronted the choice between a rotating full-time shift job and pursuing education, and sought guidance from a close friend.

DeJesus recalls, "When telling my good friend about my predicament, I was advised, 'Stop, wait a minute. Let me speak to my dad. You have another move.' Thanks to my friend, and the social capital assets that I didn’t know I had, I was able to dodge the rotating shift job and get a full-time evening job with the New York City Human Resources Administration working in homeless shelters earning $17,500 per year."

This transformative experience ignited the creation of Social Capital Builders (SCB), DeJesus's platform to share his friend's wisdom and inspire countless others. Armed with innovation, partnerships, advocacy, and research, he demonstrates the potential of fostering social capital frameworks in diverse communities. Guided by values like compassion, reciprocity, and trust—the heart of social capital—DeJesus empowers clients to cultivate meaningful connections. Today, the MIC is home to SCB, and the organization impacts over 50 youth service groups, embedding DeJesus's framework to yield life-changing results—from reduced recidivism rates to expanded opportunities for marginalized youth.

Program in Focus: Exceeding Sales Goals

A well-developed sales strategy is a critical component to any successful business operation. Packed with information, spirited conversation, and Q&A, Exceeding Sales Goals equips participants with the knowledge, tools, and skills needed to drive revenue, improve customer relationships, and create a competitive edge in the market. Led by EIR Frank Cook, this six-week series starts September 12 , 2023 and meets weekly on Tuesdays from 11 AM - 1:30 PM.

Apply for the Pitch and Mingle:

The Great Pumpkin Pitch

Applications are now live for the third annual Pitch and Mingle: The Great Pumpkin Pitch! We're in search of groundbreaking early-stage ideas that can shake up markets and create an impact. In this business pitch competition, contestants will present a compelling 4-minute pitch and complete a 4-minute Q&A session with our panel of judges and audience members – all for a shot at cash prizes. Submit your application by September 15th!

Apply Now!

Sponsor the 2023 End of Summer Bash!

Dive into the MIC's End of Summer Bash on September 21st at the Merriweather Lakehouse! Choose from sponsorship levels $500-$3,000 to be a vital part of an unforgettable event. Contact Aphaia Harper, MIC's Associate Director, at aharper@hceda.org for details and to secure your spot as a valued sponsor.