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Supporting Innovation and Community Growth
August is National Black Business Month, an opportunity to support and celebrate Black-owned businesses. We will be spotlighting and supporting Black entrepreneurs this month and year-round.
This is the time to nominate your favorite local businesses for our inaugural Small Business Awards! We will be recognizing Howard County’s best and brightest for their innovation, achievements, and unique contributions during Business Appreciation Week.
Additionally, your feedback on the disparity study is crucial for understanding and addressing the needs of our diverse business community. By participating, you can help shape a more inclusive and equitable local economy.
Sincerely,
Jennifer Jones, CEO |
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MIC Resident Spotlight: Consult Lemonade Tech Summit
A Day of Family Fun and Technological Exploration |
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On July 27th, the Consult Lemonade Tech Summit brought together tech enthusiasts, industry leaders and families for a day of exploration, innovation and hands-on activities. The event, aptly named Lemonade + Life-Skills: Tech Summit, offered a unique opportunity for 150 attendees to dive into the world of technology and discover its myriad possibilities. |
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Grand Opening of Summer Sensations in Columbia |
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Last week marked the grand opening of Summer Sensations, a pioneering therapeutic camp in Columbia tailored to support children with learning differences and sensory processing challenges. Designed for campers aged 4-16, this full-day camp offers a unique, collaborative approach that blends the expertise of professionals from various therapeutic backgrounds to foster camper success.
Summer Sensations benefited from the HCEDA’s LIFT microloan fund, which is designed to empower Howard County businesses that are generating revenue and seeking funding to fuel growth. By leveraging both financial support and supplementary resources, HCEDA aims to help businesses like Summer Sensations thrive and make a meaningful impact in our community. |
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Share Your Experience in the Howard County Disparity Study |
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Howard County Government is conducting a Disparity Study to assess how race, ethnicity, and gender affect businesses’ ability to operate within the County's marketplace. This study provides an opportunity to share feedback and your experiences.
Businesses can contribute by completing an online or phone survey, submitting comments via a website form, emailing their experiences, or participating in one-on-one interviews and focus groups. For more details and to participate, visit the County's Disparity Study website or email howardcountymddisparitystudy@mgtconsulting.com. |
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Celebrating Jennifer Jones and Baltimore Business Journal's
Women Who Mean Business 2024 |
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The Baltimore Business Journal's Women Who Mean Business 2024 awards spotlight remarkable women making significant impacts in their fields and communities. Among this year's honorees is our very own CEO, Jennifer Jones, who was recognized for her exceptional leadership and contributions to the Howard County Economic Development Authority. |
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Nominate Now for the Howard County Small Business Awards |
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Our first-ever Small Business Awards will celebrate Howard County’s best and brightest businesses for their innovative actions, unrivaled achievements, and unique executions. It's your opportunity to nominate a business—including your own—for one or more of the categories below.
The awards will be presented on Wednesday, October 9 during Business Appreciation Week. Winners will be notified in advance to allow them to plan accordingly.
Award Categories These aren’t the usual business award categories! We’re looking for oft-overlooked achievements that are worth celebrating. Submit your nomination now for one or more of the following categories:
- Pivot Prodigy – Nimbly adapted and successfully changed directions.
- Wellness Trailblazer – Making significant strides through innovative health and wellness products/services.
- Eco-Warrior – Leading the charge in sustainability and environmental initiatives.
- Community Crusader – Above and beyond in philanthropic efforts and community engagement.
- Social Butterfly – Killing it on social media through creative marketing.
- RiskyBiz Award – Took calculated risks and bold moves that paid off.
- Digital Disruptor – Shaking up their industry through cutting-edge innovation.
Don’t miss this chance to recognize the remarkable contributions of Howard County’s small businesses. Submit your nominations today! |
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Get Ready to Celebrate:
Howard County Business Appreciation Week Coming in October |
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Howard County welcomes businesses of all industries and sizes to take part in this year’s Business Appreciation Week 2024, October 7-11, 2024. During the week, ambassador teams including county department heads, government officials, community organization leaders and our team will visit local businesses to learn more about their experiences doing business in Howard County. |
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Recent Highlights: What You Need to Know |
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Check out the Baltimore Sun's photos from the opening weekend of the Howard County Fair. Learn More
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Port of Baltimore Named Top 25 U.S. Container Port. Learn More
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New Howard County Official County Flag Design Submissions Posted. Learn More
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The Greater Baltimore Committee released the All In 2035 Economic Opportunity Plan. Learn More
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The 2024 Maryland Manufacturing Celebration of Stars recognizes people who have made meaningful contributions to our state’s manufacturing industry. Learn More
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Mark your calendars for our End of Summer Bash on September 11 at Smashing Grapes in Merriweather. Register Today.
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Share your insights with the Gateway Master Plan survey. Take the Survey
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| Howard County Economic Development Authority, 6751 Columbia Gateway Drive Suite 500, Columbia, United States 21046, United States |
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