Support the Maryland Innovation Center

During National Entrepreneurship Month

This November, celebrate National Entrepreneurship Month by supporting the Maryland Innovation Center (MIC) and its mission to empower innovators and entrepreneurs in our community. MIC is dedicated to providing the resources, mentorship, and connections that help entrepreneurs turn ideas into impactful businesses. Here’s how you can get involved and make a difference:

• Become a Member: Join our vibrant MIC community and gain access to mentorship, networking events, and business resources designed to accelerate your success. Membership options are available for entrepreneurs at every stage.

• Become a Sponsor: Your sponsorship helps fuel programs, workshops, and events that drive innovation and support our growing community of entrepreneurs.

• Become a Partner: Partnering with MIC strengthens our network and resources, enabling us to provide even greater support to local startups and small businesses.

• Attend an Event: MIC hosts a range of events, from pitch competitions to networking mixers, where you can connect with like-minded professionals and be inspired by new ideas.

• Follow Us on Social Media: Stay updated on MIC news, upcoming events and inspiring success stories. Follow us and help spread the word about the work MIC is doing to support entrepreneurs in Maryland.

Join us in making a difference this National Entrepreneurship Month—together, we can continue to build a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Transformational North Laurel/Savage Façade Improvement Grant Program

The North Laurel/Savage Façade Improvement Grant (FIG) program, a $75,000 state-funded initiative aimed at revitalizing commercial corridors by enhancing the appearance of local businesses, is available to businesses in the North Laurel-Savage Sustainable Community area. The grant offers up to $20,000 to assist with exterior improvements such as signage, lighting and window upgrades.

“We are providing affordable solutions for local businesses to maintain and transform their properties,” said County Executive Calvin Ball, emphasizing the program’s potential to spur revitalization along the Route One Corridor and attract new investments.

The program offers 100% reimbursement for the first $5,000 of pre-approved costs and 50% reimbursement for additional eligible expenses over $5,000. The FIG program aims to increase customer foot traffic, improve safety and boost the local economy by supporting property upgrades that complement the community’s character.

Mastering Small Business Marketing:

From Foundations to Lead Generation

Are you struggling to effectively market your small business? Join us for Mastering Small Business Marketing: From Foundations to Lead Generation, an interactive lunch-and-learn session designed to tackle key marketing challenges and provide hands-on experience in a dynamic environment. This session is packed with practical solutions, from building a strong marketing foundation to crafting a winning content strategy and generating leads that convert into loyal customers.

Featured Artist in Our Accelerator Space: Aynex Mercado

We’re thrilled to showcase the beautiful work of Aynex Mercado in our Accelerator space, where her art is available for purchase! Aynex is an exceptional textile artist and quilter with a passion for vibrant color, texture, and storytelling. Her work combines traditional quilting techniques with modern design, creating pieces that celebrate both heritage and innovation.

Aynex has dedicated her career to exploring the expressive possibilities of fabric art, drawing inspiration from her Puerto Rican heritage and experiences. Each piece she creates tells a unique story, capturing the beauty of cultural tradition while embracing bold, contemporary styles. Her work has been featured in exhibitions and galleries, bringing warmth and texture to any space.

Learn more about Aynex Mercado and explore her captivating quilted artwork at aynexquilts.com. Don’t miss the chance to see her work in person and add a unique piece of art to your collection!

Spotlight on Howard County's Newest Fan-Favorite Restaurants

Howard County’s culinary scene is thriving, and two local gems are quickly becoming fan favorites! If you're looking to support local dining spots, make sure to check out The Big Greek Cafe in Columbia and Cheesesteak & Co. in Elkridge.

The Big Greek Cafe, known for its authentic Greek flavors and welcoming atmosphere, brings the essence of Greece to Columbia. Whether you're craving gyros, souvlaki or a classic Greek salad, this spot offers a warm and flavorful dining experience that keeps customers coming back.

Just a short drive away in Elkridge, Cheesesteak & Co. is wowing locals with their take on the classic cheesesteak, delivering a satisfying mix of flavors and ingredients. From perfectly seasoned steak to delicious toppings, this spot has quickly become a go-to for comfort food lovers.

Both restaurants highlight the unique flavors that Howard County has to offer. Check them out and see why they're earning such high praise in the community!

Recent Highlights: What You Need to Know

• Howard County Office of Workforce Development Information Session for Jobseekers is November 18th. Learn More

• Networking Night with HCEDA and MBOC is on November 19th. Learn More

• Howard County Office of Workforce Development Business Apprenticeship Fair is on November 20th. Learn More

• Maryland Launches New Program to Expand Use of Solar on Commercial Buildings in Underserved Communities. Learn More

• TEDCO’s 10th Entrepreneur Expo will be held Wednesday, December 4, 2024 at the Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel. Learn More

• Leadership Howard County Holds A Night of Illuminating Leadership. Learn More

• The MWBC has teamed up with Square to host a free webinar, "Maximizing the Use of Square Terminals." Learn More

• Check out our new and improved website at www.howardcountyeda.org