Sip, Savor and Celebrate Innovation at Pitch & Mingle: The Lucky Pitch!

Don’t miss Pitch & Mingle: The Lucky Pitch on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at the Maryland Innovation Center—an evening where big ideas, great connections and incredible food and drinks come together.

Meet the Contestants:

• Revvl is redefining the mocktail experience with bold, full-bodied, zero-proof cocktails that provide the same complexity and satisfaction as traditional alcoholic drinks. Read More

• BioArk Technologies will showcase its CRISPR Bio-Lego System, an advanced gene editing platform designed to improve efficiency, precision and scalability in biomedical research. Read More

• Total Home Physical Therapy in a Bag, LLC., a MIC Resident, is making a meaningful impact with VersaBall,  in accessible rehabilitation and mobility solutions. Read More

• Financial Field Trips, is on a mission to make financial literacy engaging, practical and accessible for students.  Read More

• Green Mechanic, is redefining ecological design and stormwater management with nature-driven solutions, showcasing Algal Turf Scrubbers (ATS), a system that naturally filters pollutants from water. Read More

Whether you’re coming for the pitches, the people, or the amazing food and drinks, this is an event you won’t want to miss. Secure your spot today!

Registration Required – Reserve Your Spot by March 18!

Building the Future of Cybersecurity in Howard County

The Cyber Howard Accelerator, led by the Howard County Economic Development Authority (HCEDA) in partnership with the Technology Advancement Center (TAC), is designed to support early-stage cybersecurity companies. This program provides mentorship, funding connections and technical resources to help entrepreneurs refine their products, scale operations and secure investment.

Howard County is neighboring the U.S. Cyber Command, NSA and leading defense contractors, making it one of the most strategic locations for cybersecurity startups. The Cyber Howard Accelerator strengthens the region’s innovation ecosystem by helping companies establish a strong foundation for long-term success.

The Cyber Howard Accelerator Ribbon Cutting will be held on March 25th. Register for the ribbon cutting and help us celebrate the continued growth of cybersecurity innovation.

From Federal Employee to GovCon Entrepreneur:

Your Next Step Starts Here

Howard County is home to thousands of dedicated federal employees and contractors, many of whom are looking to transition into entrepreneurship. To support this growing need, Howard County has expanded its business resources—offering funding opportunities, expert guidance, and key programs to help former federal workers turn their side ventures into thriving businesses.

Featured Sessions at the HCEDA Business Resource Expo:

• Loan & Grant Programs – Explore funding options, application requirements, and expert insights to position your business for success.
• New Business Idea Brainstorm – Get real-time feedback and refine your concept with industry experts.
• What’s Next? Federal Transition to Business Ownership – Navigate the shift from federal employee to entrepreneur, including government contracting opportunities.

In addition to the expo, Howard County has launched new programs to support federal workers exploring business ownership. The HoCo Higher Growth Accelerator, set to launch soon, will provide structured support, mentorship, and funding opportunities to help former federal employees transition into successful entrepreneurs.

Attendees can also tour the Maryland Innovation Center, a hub for entrepreneurs, and connect with essential business resources like the SBA, SBDC, VBOC, and more.

Don't miss this opportunity to build your network, secure funding and take advantage of Howard County’s expanded resources to help you launch and grow your business.

HoCo Higher: Growth Accelerator – Scale Faster, Smarter, Stronger

HoCo Higher: Growth Accelerator is designed for growth companies generating above $50K but under $250K in revenue. This 7-week in-person program at the Maryland Innovation Center offers you the opportunity to work ON, not IN, your business. With expert coaching you'll develop a market strategy, generate customers, create a growth plan, identify actionable priorities, find funding pathways and produce a compelling business pitch.

Recent Highlights: What You Need to Know

• The Governor's Office of Small, Minority & Women Business Affairs is hosting Ready, Set, GROW! Procurement Connections Workshop on March 20th at the Horseshoe Casino-Baltimore. Learn More

• Howard County is hosting the Federal Workers Career Fair on April 8, 2025. Learn More

• HCEDA recently launched the Small Business FLEX Program to give local businesses the support they need to succeed. Learn More

• Howard County's population growth showed signs of rebounding in 2024, after slowing nearly every year since 2016. Learn More