November 15, 2023
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Let’s Celebrate Shop Small Saturday… Together!
Shopping locally during the holidays isn't just a matter of convenience; it's a statement of solidarity and support for the backbone of our community. When we buy from Howard County's small businesses, we invest in the future of our region and ensure that it remains a hub of innovation and creativity. The money we spend at these establishments circulates within our community, strengthening the bonds that tie us together.
On Saturday, November 25th, we will be kicking off Shop Small Saturday at 10 a.m. in front of the Welcome Center on Old Ellicott City Main Street and visiting Savage Mill at 11:30 a.m. We will highlight small businesses throughout the county all day and encourage you to visit our social media channels to see who we visit and share your own small business visits and recommendations.
By choosing to shop locally during the holidays, we not only discover one-of-a-kind gifts and delightful experiences, but we also bolster the economic well-being of our friends and neighbors. So, this holiday season, let's embrace the spirit of Shop Small Saturday in Howard County and celebrate the remarkable contributions of our local entrepreneurs who make our celebrations more special and strengthen our community.
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Sincerely,
Jennifer Jones
CEO, Howard County Economic Development Authority
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Shop Small Saturday
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Celebrating National Entrepreneurship Month:
A Spotlight on BRITE Programs
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In honor of National Entrepreneurship Month, we're highlighting our Maryland Innovation Center's Business Revitalization Initiative Through Entrepreneurship (BRITE) program! Designed to assist both emerging
startups and established businesses, BRITE offers a variety of resources to support our entrepreneurial community in Howard County. Entrepreneurs receive guidance through a comprehensive range of services, including mentoring, strategic planning, and in-depth courses focused on essential aspects of business growth, all backed by extensive expertise. Entrepreneurs at any stage of their business journey are welcome to explore the benefits of the BRITE program. For more information, please visit our website below.
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Exploring Downtown Columbia:
A New Live-Work-Play Destination Panel
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On October 9, HCEDA's CEO Jennifer Jones participated in a panel discussion titled 'Exploring Downtown Columbia: A New Live-Work-Play Destination,' held at Howard Hughes in Columbia, MD. The event, presented by Howard Hughes and United Bank, highlighted the ongoing development and growth in downtown Columbia, encompassing office, residential, retail, and placemaking efforts. HCEDA is pleased to participate in and celebrate events that foster collaborative efforts and community success.
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Howard County Office of Workforce Development: The Blitz Newsletter
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The Howard County Office of Workforce Development has introduced a new newsletter focused on apprenticeships, titled "The Blitz". This publication aims to provide information and insights about apprenticeship programs, with a goal of supporting workforce development.To subscribe to The Blitz, email owdbusiness@howardcountymd.gov.
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Economic Injury Disaster Loans
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Small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, and most private nonprofit organizations in declared disaster areas suffering substantial economic injury may be eligible for an SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL), including those impacted by COVID-19. Eligibility requires inability to meet obligations and cover operating expenses. EIDLs provide working capital for businesses to survive until normal operations resume and are available when credit is unattainable elsewhere. Loans can reach up to $2 million, based on actual economic injury and financial needs. Funds cover working capital and normal expenses like rent, utilities, and health care benefits. Learn more here!
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