September 20, 2023
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Last Friday, September 15, marked the beginning of Hispanic Heritage month, a time to recognize the invaluable contributions, rich diversity, and deep-rooted histories of the Hispanic community in America.
In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, we come together to celebrate the significant influence of Hispanic entrepreneurs on our local economy. Their innovation, determination, and dedication play a vital role in shaping our business landscape, and it's imperative that we acknowledge and laud their achievements. This month also prompts us to reflect on the ways in which the Hispanic community has influenced and enriched our society. From art and music to science and politics, their legacy remains a defining element of our nation's cultural tapestry.
To showcase these achievements, we will be spotlighting Hispanic-owned businesses throughout the month, sharing their inspiring stories, and fostering a greater understanding of their contributions. We invite you to join us in this celebration as we come together to embrace the spirit of diversity and inclusivity that defines our community.
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Sincerely,
Jennifer Jones
CEO, Howard County Economic Development Authority
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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.
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Governor Moore Visits MIC During Cabinet Tour |
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Pictured from left to right are Maryland Secretary of Commerce Kevin A. Anderson, HCEDA CEO Jennifer Jones, TeamWorx Security CEO Chris Anthony, Maryland Governor Wes Moore, Lt. Governor
Aruna Miller, Howard County Executive Calvin Ball, Director of Homeland Security Adam Flasch.
On September 15th, Governor Wes Moore visited Howard County as part of his cabinet meeting road tour. Since the tour began in February 2023, Governor Moore has traveled to a different county each month to engage with local communities and highlight innovative businesses throughout the state. In Howard County,
Governor Moore toured the HCEDA and its Maryland Innovation Center. He held discussions with HCEDA leaders, focusing on their economic development initiatives, with a special mention of the LIFT Fund program. At the MIC, he engaged with several resident firms, including Forte, a platform dedicated to mental wellness; Consult Lemonade, a company dedicated to talent development in the tech sector; Social Capital Builders, providing social capital training and initiatives;
and the software engineering company TeamWorx Security.
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Chris Anthony, CEO of TeamWorx Security, has an eclectic background spanning the military, government, and academia, with roles ranging from Army Ranger to lecturer at Johns Hopkins University. TeamWorx Security, a Catalyst Fund recipient, is a pioneering software engineering firm that leverages AI, NLP, and machine learning to transform data into decisive insights, enhancing National Security initiatives.
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HCEDA's Minority Business Directory |
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If you're committed to supporting and connecting with minority-owned businesses in our community, the HCEDA's Minority Business Directory is a helpful resource. This directory not only offers a list of local enterprises but also promotes economic diversity, fosters community integration, and helps in identifying potential partnerships and collaborations. By tapping into this directory, businesses and individuals can ensure they're engaging with a wide spectrum of local talent. For minority-owned businesses aiming to enhance their visibility and join this expanding network, we invite you to list your enterprise in the directory by clicking here.
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| Access the Directory |
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FY2023 Community Impact Report |
Explore the FY2023 Community Impact Report to gain insight into HCEDA's contributions to Howard County. This report presents an overview of the numbers, narratives, and accomplishments that detail HCEDA's activities and effects. Stay informed about the key developments and milestones within our organization.
"The HCEDA is amazing! They provided me with more resources and knowledge than one could have ever imagined. The support for farmers and the resources has been amazing, starting our new farm would not have been possible without their help.” — Paul Sawhney, Owner of Sawhney Beef
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Pitch and Mingle: The Great Pumpkin Pitch | October 17 from 5 - 7:30 PM
Join us at the MIC on October 17 for the latest iteration of our Pitch and Mingle series. From 5 PM to 7 PM, five selected startups will each give a four-minute pitch before fielding questions from audience members and a panel of judges. After the Q&A, three companies will be selected for cash prizes! Attendees will also be awarding a “crowd favorite” prize to the company of their choosing. Light refreshments will also be provided, making for a spirited event!
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HCEDA Open House | October 26 from 9-12 PM
At this expo-style resource fair, you can access information on HCEDA's services and programs, connect with our team and partners, and explore initiatives vital for your business to thrive. Discover opportunities with Howard County Procurement, benefit from mentoring with MIC's Entrepreneurs in Residence, and explore resources, including HCEDA's loan programs and partner offerings for accelerated business growth. Businesses will also have an opportunity to hear from leading industry professionals including NSA’s Scott Jackson – Director, Office of Small Business Programs.
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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.
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BRITE Program Spotlight: HoCo Higher
HoCo Higher at MIC, part of BRITE, supports businesses at every growth stage. The FastTrac Accelerator aids idea-stage companies using the Kauffman startup method. The Growth Accelerator, for businesses with $50K-$250K in revenue, fosters strategic and independent problem-solving skills. For businesses earning
$250K-$20M, the CEO Accelerator focuses on cultivating an engaged workforce and customer base, ensuring long-term success.
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The next cohort of the HoCo Higher: Growth Accelerator begins on Wednesday October 4th and continues weekly through November 15th, from 6 PM to 9 PM, with a Graduation Ceremony and Pitch on December 6th; registration
closes on October 3rd. Sign up below!
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| HoCo Higher: Growth Accelerator |
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Highlighting Hispanic Leadership: EIR
Nathan Garcia |
Nathan Garcia believes that financial success starts with clarity. As a Certified Financial Planner, SEC Licensed Investment Advisor, and licensed life insurance agent, and a Hispanic business-owner, Nathan has helped hundreds reach their financial goals. At the MIC, he is an Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR) mentor. Through this program, Nathan uses his expertise and experience to mentor others and help them elevate their business. In addition to being an EIR, Nathan is the founder of Pocket Planner, Inc. Pocket Planner was created to help entrepreneurs make informed, streamlined financial decisions. Using his knowledge of wealth management and a passion for smart tech, Nathan can empower entrepreneurs by saving them time and improving sales efficiency. If you want to connect with Nathan, request a mentorship session here.
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The Impact of MIC Resident Company, Hispanicpreneurs
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Native Guatemalan, Vinicio Guzman began his journey with a mission to make a meaningful impact on his community. This mission has since evolved into a commitment to fostering innovation and growth among Hispanic entrepreneurs through his company, Hispanicpreneurs.
In 2020, amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Guzman observed that many in the Hispanic business community lacked the digital tools and presence needed to transition online. In response, Hispanicpreneurs was founded to equip and support Hispanic entrepreneurs with digital marketing solutions, helping them adapt to an evolving digital landscape. Since its inception, Hispanicpreneurs has expanded, now providing tailored guidance and support to help startups and small businesses flourish.
Guzman is well-versed as an entrepreneur, as he started his first entrepreneurial venture in 2013 and created his own cybersecurity company, Fides Tech Solutions. Guzman shares that aspiring entrepreneurs should, “embrace adaptability and innovation as your guiding lights in entrepreneurship. The business landscape is ever-changing, so be ready to
pivot when necessary and embrace new ideas. By staying adaptable and innovative, you'll not only navigate challenges effectively but also discover exciting opportunities for growth.”
Guzman's passion for championing Hispanic businesses is rooted in his own experiences and the stories of those he's met along the way. He understands the unique challenges they face, yet also sees the immense opportunities the modern business world offers. This isn't just a professional mission for him—it's personal. With each business he aids, he's reminded of the dreams, aspirations, and resilience that define his community. Regardless of the obstacles that may arise, Guzman is committed to empowering these businesses.
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| Read More About Hispanicpreneurs |
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HCEDA's Catalyst Fund
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The Catalyst Fund, managed by HCEDA, supports Maryland startups and growing businesses that generate permanent jobs and attract private sector investments. As a Revolving Loan Fund (RLF), repayments are reinvested to finance more job-creating projects. Loan funds can be used for normal business uses such as working capital, equipment,
real estate, franchise fees and inventory purchases.
Rising Tide Academy, a top-ranked martial arts school in the state specializing in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai, secured a new facility lease through support from HCEDA's Catalyst Fund.
“Thanks to the Catalyst Fund from the Howard County Economic Development Authority, ANT Group received the essential funding required to make Rising Tide Hi-Tech, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and Self-Defense Academy in Hanover, Maryland a reality. With this foundation, we were strategically positioned to hit the ground running, bringing martial arts training to new heights while having the desired community impact." — Naqi Sayed, Owner of Rising Tide Academy
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| The Catalyst Fund |
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To help qualifying businesses lacking sufficient collateral for the Catalyst Fund, the county initiated the Collateral Assistance Fund, providing up to $100,000 to secure the loans. Eligible businesses must be in Howard County, operational for 1-2 years, show profitability and good credit, and meet other criteria, and loans can be used for working capital, inventory, or expansion expenses.
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| The Collateral Assistance Fund |
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HCEDA's LIFT Fund
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HCEDA's LIFT Fund provides 3-5 year microloans ranging from $10,000 to $30,000 to empower small businesses, including minority, women, and veteran-owned enterprises in Howard County. The MIC supplements these loans with resources, like business coaching, to ensure success. Funds can be used for working capital, equipment, and expansion.
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| Apply Today |
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