October 11, 2023
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Central to our 2024-26 Strategic Plan's outcomes is a focus on research and messaging. Given the competitive landscape for businesses and talent, it has become increasingly clear that marketing is a critical component in positioning our county for success on a global stage.
Marketing plays a multifaceted role in our community. It raises awareness, as familiarity with our region can sway decisions to visit, invest, or even reside here. It showcases our county's strengths, from our educated workforce to our robust business resources and infrastructure, signaling a favorable environment for businesses. Furthermore, as businesses grow, they create more job opportunities. Effective marketing presents our community as an attractive workplace, drawing talent from different regions. Within this landscape, economic development organizations like HCEDA bridge opportunities and fortify connections with regional partners.
To help us achieve our marketing goals, we have hired Jesse Trahan as our new Director of Marketing and Communications. Jesse brings both analytical and creative skills, which will support HCEDA’s branding and outreach objectives. With Jesse's inclusion, we aim to further our efforts in talent attraction, business retention, and regional
development.
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Sincerely,
Jennifer Jones
CEO, Howard County Economic Development Authority
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Welcome Jesse Trahan, MBA, HCEDA's Director of Marketing and Communications |
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We are
thrilled to welcome Jesse Trahan, MBA, as our new Director of Marketing and Communications. Trahan brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in omni-channel campaigns, brand building, content development, and more. From successfully spearheading high-impact initiatives at The Trahan Agency to promoting localized public relations at Alliance Marketing Partners and serving in key roles for Baltimore City and County, Trahan is poised to drive HCEDA's marketing strategies forward. As a senior-level marketing communications leader, Trahan's combination of analytical and creative skills will amplify HCEDA’s branding and outreach. Join us in extending him a warm welcome!
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U.S. Senator Cardin Visits HCEDA
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Pictured above (left to right): Angella Aizire, Microloan Administrator, HCEDA; Jillian Joseph, Director, Client Services, MIC; Aphaia Harper, Associate Director, MIC; Chris Moyer, MBA, Managing
Director, Business Development, HCEDA; U.S. Senator Ben Cardin; Jennifer Jones, CEO, HCEDA; Jason Jannati, Director, Strategic Partnerships, HCEDA; Darshni H. Patel, Director, Business Finance, HCEDA; Jinal Contractor, Director, Small and Minority Business Development, HCEDA; and Maryland State Delegate Jessica Feldmark.
U.S. Senator Ben Cardin recently paid a visit to the HCEDA to engage in an important discussion about the organization's objectives and ongoing initiatives. During his visit, Senator Cardin also took the opportunity to meet with residents of the MIC, gaining firsthand insight into their experiences and perspectives.
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Featured Business Resource: |
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Small Business Cybersecurity Resilience in Maryland (“SCRIM”) Program
The Maryland Department of Commerce will launch the Cybersecurity for Small Business Pilot Program, awarding funds to bolster cybersecurity for 40 eligible businesses. Service providers will audit existing security systems, while employees undergo hygiene training. Identified staff will receive advanced, industry-specific training. Post-training, contractors
will implement top-priority security upgrades worth up to $10,000 per business.
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Veteran-Owned Small Biz Expo | October 28 from 10 AM - 2 PM
During Howard County's Business Appreciation Week, the Department of Community Resources and Services’ Office of Veterans and Military Families (OVMF) invites vendors and sponsors for its inaugural Veteran Owned Small Biz Expo. The event will take place on Saturday, October 28th, from 10 AM to 2 PM at the MIC.
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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 NSA’s Scott Jackson, Director, Office of Small Business Programs, about securing contracts with the NSA.
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Catalyst Fund Success Story: How Edge Golf Performance Elevated Its Game with HCEDA
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Located in Columbia, Edge Golf Performance is a premier 6,000 square-foot training facility owned by PGA specialist, Paul Maurer. This year-round state-of-the-art hub is helps golfers improve their golf, physical, and mental skills. With four trackman bays, a puttview green for rent, and a dedicated fitness area, players can elevate their strength,
power, and mobility. Beyond individual training, Edge Golf doubles as an excellent venue for corporate team events and larger group gatherings.
The transition from a home golf instruction venture to this expansive commercial space was made possible with support from the HCEDA's Catalyst Fund.
As a grateful recipient, Paul Maurer shares, "The Howard County Economic Development Authority Catalyst Fund allowed my business to grow exponentially this year. With the help of the funds, I was able to expand my home golf instruction business into a 6,000 square foot commercial space. In addition, I was able to grow from 4 part time employees into 2 full time and 6 part time employees. The staff at the EDA was very helpful and supportive through the whole process and I am grateful that we were connected!"
Learn more about the HCEDA's financial support programs below.
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Meet MIC EIR Camille
Mazelev |
With deep entrepreneurial roots, MIC’s Entrepreneur in Residence, Camille Mazelev, serves as an inspiration to emerging business talents. With over 20 years as a consultant and growth advisor, Mazelev empowers entrepreneurs with resources, strategy, and clarity. Not only does she bring professional expertise, but she's also founded two businesses: Cultivated Woman, supporting female entrepreneurs and people of color, and Savvy Buttah Beauty & Skin Care, a luxury beauty brand. Leveraging her rich experience, Mazelev is dedicated to nurturing local entrepreneurs at the MIC.
If you want to connect with Camille Mazelev, request a mentorship session here.
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Featured Upcoming BRITE Programs:
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6 TV Episode Landmarks to Nail Narrative and Transform Daily Content | October 19, 2023 from 11:00 - 12:30 PM
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Join us for an exclusive workshop on the art of storytelling with Heather Shreve, an award-winning screenwriter and master artist. Dive into key story design elements across various genres and understand the 6 industry-standard landmarks essential for compelling narratives. Whether you're working on an upcoming PowerPoint presentation, novel, video script, or any form of narrative, this session offers tools to enhance your storytelling prowess.
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Pitch and Mingle: The Great Pumpkin Pitch | October 17 from 5 - 7:30 PM
Join us at Manor Hill Brewing on October 17 for the latest iteration of our Pitch and Mingle series. From 5 PM to 7:30 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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To learn more about the MIC's upcoming BRITE programs and events, click here.
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ICYMI: Cyber Howard
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In the face of growing cybersecurity threats, many small businesses turn to vendor management programs, but often encounter inefficiencies. To address this, the MIC, alongside HCEDA, launched "Cyber Howard." This program bolsters cybersecurity for MIC members through a secure multi-tenant cloud, standardized policies, and dedicated experts. Additionally, businesses can earn the "Cyber Assurance
Seal," a trusted mark of robust cybersecurity measures.
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