Message from the CEO

Howard County Partners at SelectUSA 

We joined the Maryland Department of Commerce and the Greater Baltimore Committee at the 10^th Annual SelectUSA Investment Summit. The Summit is the highest profile event in the United States to facilitate business investment by connecting thousands of investors, companies, economic development organizations (EDOs). Hosted by the U.S. Department of Commerce, the Investment Summit is a one-stop shop for companies considering expanding to the United States and provides EDOs with the opportunity to meet directly with international companies to facilitate investment deals. We met with over 30 international companies and hosted them at our Maryland Innovation Center to discuss opportunities in Howard County.

Raise a Glass to Smashing Grapes

Please join us in welcoming Smashing Grapes, a new restaurant and wine tavern, to the Merriweather District. Smashing Grapes offers a variety of global cuisine and an extensive wine selection, featuring live music and weekly tasting menus. The team participated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony followed by a tour of the space. It was an event celebrating culinary diversity and community spirit. 

Applications Now Open:

HoCo Higher: Growth Accelerator

Sign up today to develop strategic thinking and independent problem-solving techniques relevant to "work "on" rather than "in" the business".

• Learn how to clarify your message, qualify leads, consistently decrease marketing costs, build loyal customers and increase your market share.
• Develop a fully integrated, results-driven marketing strategy to create success within eCommerce, Business-to-Business (B2B), and Business-to-Government (B2G).
• Identify feasible solutions to develop a "One-Page Strategic Growth Plan".
• Choose a structured approach for every identified strategic priority for the next 12 months by using effectiveness and efficiency concepts.
• Leverage assets to secure the necessary financing to grow.
• Practice your presentation skills to raise money from investors/lenders, gain new customers and empower employees/subcontractors.

 Empowering Your Business in the Thriving Defense Sector

Maryland’s robust defense sector, home to 20 military facilities, supports various R&D and cybersecurity efforts. The Maryland Defense Network (MDN) is a vital tool for businesses in this sector. Here’s how MDN can help:

1. Discover New Partners & Be Discoverable: MDN lists over 3,000 vendors, helping small and mid-sized businesses gain exposure and access subcontracting opportunities.
2. Find Contracting Opportunities: MDN integrates federal notices and expiring contracts, ensuring you don’t miss key opportunities.
3. Research Spending Trends & Create Reports: MDN tools provide insights into defense spending and key contractors, helping you make informed decisions.

Read more on how to leverage MDN for your business growth at business.maryland.gov.

Spotlighting our Creative Entrepreneurs

Each week, we will feature an artist in our Accelerator space, showcasing their work available for sale.  Meet Juron Travers, also known as Jay Delnegro, a gifted artist from Baltimore, MD. Specializing in colorful portraiture, Pop media paintings, and digital artwork, Jay draws inspiration from comics, cartoons, social issues, childhood memories and the vibrant sounds of 90s R&B and Hip-Hop.

Jay's art is a dynamic blend of familiar themes and unexpected elements. His pieces are visually striking, capturing the essence of his subjects in a way that resonates deeply with viewers. Through his work, he communicates messages of social commentary and heartfelt emotion, celebrating the human experience with a unique perspective and creative style. 

Recent Highlights: What You Need to Know

• Cybersecurity startup Huntress eyes IPO after hitting unicorn status. Read More

• Howard County Wins Gold with Most National Honors in Maryland. Read More

• BGE Energizing Small Business Grants Available. Read More

• The Howard County Office of Workforce Development (OWD) is hosting the SYEP program from 7/1-8/9. OWD will provide a pool of high-quality youth employees and will cover wages. Learn More

• Don't Miss These Howard County Hiring Events. Read More