Howard County Welcomes Grocery Outlet to Wilde Lake

Our team, along with local leaders and community partners, is thrilled to celebrate the grand opening of Grocery Outlet in the Wilde Lake community. Occupying 15,000 square feet in the former location of David's Natural Market, the store will provide a new retail hub for families seeking quality groceries at unbeatable prices while creating 35 new jobs, including both full- and part-time positions.

Founded in 1946, Grocery Outlet is the nation’s largest extreme-value grocery retailer, known for its innovative sourcing strategies and exceptional deals on brand-name products. This locally owned and operated store is poised to make a significant impact on the community by delivering personalized customer service and engaging with local shoppers.

The grand opening celebrates not only a new chapter for Grocery Outlet but also the continued growth and vitality of Howard County's business community.

Prestige-Ledroit Distributing Co. Opens 

New Sales and Training Space in Howard County

Prestige-Ledroit Distributing Co., a beverage distributor, has officially expanded into Howard County with the opening of its brand-new sales and training space in Elkridge. This modern facility is designed to provide an enhanced customer experience while offering a dedicated environment for team development and collaboration.

The new location reflects Prestige’s commitment to innovation and its vision for the future. Clients can expect a welcoming, thoughtfully designed space where they can explore the company’s services and solutions. For the Prestige team, the facility provides a state-of-the-art hub for training, ensuring they continue to deliver the high level of expertise and service the company is known for.

Situated in the vibrant Howard County community, the new space also represents Prestige’s dedication to being a part of a dynamic and growing business landscape. By investing in this expansion, Prestige aims to strengthen relationships with its clients and contribute to the local economy.

Downtown Columbia Partnership Celebrates

10 Years of Building Community

The Downtown Columbia Partnership (DTCP) is celebrating a decade of progress in making Downtown Columbia a vibrant, walkable, and sustainable urban hub. Established as part of the Downtown Columbia Plan, DTCP has worked tirelessly to create a thriving community where residents, businesses and visitors connect.

Known for hosting signature events like Books in Bloom, the Discover Downtown Columbia 5/10K and Festive Fridays, DTCP also champions initiatives that enhance walkability and sustainability in the area.

With support from local leaders and partners, DTCP continues to bring the vision of Downtown Columbia to life. From cultural programming to transportation improvements, its work fosters community connection and growth.

The Importance of Shopping Local This Holiday Season

This holiday season, shopping local isn’t just a choice—it’s a meaningful way to support our community, strengthen our economy and celebrate the unique character of Howard County. When you spend money at local businesses, you’re investing in your community. Studies show that $68 of every $100 spent locally stays in the community, compared to just $43 when shopping at a chain retailer. With Howard County’s economy at approximately $26 billion, the collective impact of shopping local can be enormous—potentially keeping over $6 billion circulating right here

Shopping local isn’t just about numbers; it’s about building a thriving, connected community.

Why Shop Local?

• Support Jobs and Growth: Local businesses are job creators, ensuring that your dollars help grow Howard County’s economy.
• Fund Vital Services: Local tax revenue supports essential services like education, fire and safety, and community programs.
• Give Back to the Community: Local businesses donate twice as much to community causes as national chains.
• Preserve Local Character: Unique local businesses help define Howard County’s charm and personality.
• Foster Connections: Shopping local builds relationships with neighbors and local entrepreneurs, strengthening the fabric of our community.

When you shop, eat, drink, play, stay, and give local, you’re making a choice to keep Howard County vibrant and growing. Supporting locally based businesses is more than just a transaction—it’s an investment in our community’s future.

Visit the Howard County Business Directory today to discover businesses near you, and let’s make this holiday season a celebration of our local economy and the people who make it special. 

Jazzy New Year Celebration:

Ring in the New Year with the Howard County Business Community

Join us for our annual Jazzy New Year celebration, an evening dedicated to connecting HCEDA partners, business owners, entrepreneurs and others in Howard County’s thriving business community.

Date: Thursday, January 16th, 6:00–9:00 p.m.

Location: The Blackwall Barn & Lodge, 6000 Merriweather Dr Suite B140, Columbia, MD 21044

Enjoy live music by the Unified Jazz Ensemble, a gourmet menu featuring lobster tails, crab cakes, beef short ribs and pork osso bucco, and an open bar. This event is an excellent opportunity to network with business leaders, make new connections and start the year off with inspiring conversations and great company.

Sponsorship Opportunities Available

Showcase your business at this event by becoming a sponsor. Contact jtrahan@hceda.org for more information.

Recent Highlights: What You Need to Know

• Jennifer Jones, CEO of Howard County Economic Development Authority, recently graduated Leadership Maryland’s Prestigious Executive Program. Learn More

• The Maryland Economic Council has published the October 2024 Economic Report. Learn More

• The North Laurel/Savage Facade Improvement Grant offers businesses up to $20,000 to enhance their property’s exterior with reimbursed improvement costs. Learn More

• Join Bright Minds Foundation for the 2nd annual Breakfast with the Superintendent Networking and Fundraising Event, on January 28th. Learn More

• BGE Hello Alice DoorDash Restaurant Disaster Relief Fund is offering up to $10,000 in grants, with the new round beginning December 3rd. Learn More