AAPI Business Summit Sparks Innovation

and Empowers Howard County Entrepreneurs

The inaugural AAPI Business Summit was held at the Maryland Innovation Center and brought together a dynamic mix of entrepreneurs and community leaders for an evening of inspiration and connection. Hosted by the Office of the County Executive, the Office of Human Rights & Equity’s AAPI Commission and our team, this event was a resounding success, providing attendees with invaluable insights and networking opportunities.

Empowering Connections: Recap of the Minority Roundtable Meeting

The recent Minority Roundtable Meeting was a great success, bringing together minority business owners and community representatives to connect and share resources.

Participants received important updates on support programs available to local businesses. Dannette Nguyen and Martha Jimenez from the Maryland Women’s Business Center presented the Shop Local Cohort Program and the Retail Business Consultant Programs, highlighting resources for makers and retail businesses. Our team spoke about the LIFT Fund, explaining how to apply and the financial assistance available. Attendees were inspired by success stories from businesses that have benefited from the program.

The meeting underscored the importance of community engagement and encouraged participation in future initiatives. Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to these valuable discussions! If you represent a community and would like to participate in future roundtable meetings, please contact Jinal Contractor at jcontractor@hceda.org.

Unlock Your Business Potential and Celebrate Success

at the Business Resource Expo & Small Business Awards

Get ready for an incredible opportunity to connect with top representatives from various county agencies and departments—all in one place! The Business Resource Expo is your ultimate one-stop shop for accessing essential resources and services designed to propel your business forward.

This event will also feature our inaugural Small Business Awards, where we’ll celebrate Howard County’s best and brightest businesses for their innovative actions, outstanding achievements, and unique executions. 

Join the Fun at the Great Pumpkin Pitch on October 17th

🎃 Spots are Limited! 🎃

Join us at the Maryland Innovation Center for an exhilarating pitch competition spotlighting the community's most promising entrepreneurs and startup companies. With over $6,000 in cash prizes up for grabs, this is your chance to witness innovation at its finest and support local talent.

How It Works:

• The Competition: Five selected startups will each have 4 minutes to present their pitch, followed by 4 minutes of Q&A from our panel of judges and the audience.
• The Prizes: The top 3 companies will be chosen by our judges, with first place taking home $3,000. Additionally, the audience will vote for a "Crowd Favorite" who will also receive a cash prize.
• Networking: Mingle with fellow attendees over drinks and hors d'oeuvres, making valuable connections in a relaxed and engaging setting.

Support local entrepreneurs, be part of the selection process, and connect with like-minded individuals. We can’t wait to see you there!

Accelerate Your Retail Business with the MWBC Shop Local Program

Are you a woman entrepreneur ready to take your retail business to the next level? The MWBC Shop Local retail incubator program is now accepting applications! This 6-month program provides you with mentorship, hands-on training, and valuable storefront experience at Savage Mill, all while growing alongside a community of like-minded women.

Submit your application by October 15 for the chance to participate in this transformative program. Apply Now: mwbcshoplocal.com/join

Recent Highlights: What You Need to Know

• Every Step Counts Autism Walk & 5K Run is on October 5^th from 9am-Noon at Centennial Park in Ellicott City. Register Today
  
• Montgomery County's Flash Bus Rapid Service Arriving in Howard County by 2026. Share your thoughts by completing the feedback survey, available until the end of October. Learn More
  
• The BWI Business Partnership is seeking a full-time Grants Manager. Apply Today
  
• October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month and Oct 14-19 is Cyber Career Week. Learn More
  
• Check out our new and improved website at www.howardcountyeda.org