Opening Doors to Cyber Innovation in Howard County

Howard County Executive Calvin Ball, Howard County Economic Development Authority (HCEDA) and the Technology Advancement Center (TAC) opened the new Cyber Howard Accelerator program. Aimed at cybersecurity focused startups, this program will assist new companies transition from product development to market expansion and connect them with key industry leaders, investors and government partners. Photos for the event can be found on the County’s Flickr and video on the County’s YouTube channel. 

Now open for applications, the accelerator provides startups with the tools, mentorship and industry connections needed to scale.

Program benefits include:

• Expert Mentorship from a dedicated Entrepreneur-in-Residence

• Product Development Support with access to testing environments and compliance resources

• Go-to-Market Strategy including customer discovery and pilot opportunities

• Funding and Pitch Coaching through investor connections and expert guidance

• Networking Opportunities with industry leaders, peers and potential partners

If you're building a cybersecurity company and ready to grow, we invite you to apply.

And the Winners Are… The Lucky Pitch Shines Bright

What an outstanding evening celebrating innovation, entrepreneurship and bold new ideas. The Lucky Pitch brought together exceptional startups, visionary founders and a vibrant audience. We are pleased to congratulate this year’s winners:

🥇 1st Place – Lexx, Revvl ($5,000)
🥈 2nd Place – Larry Davis, Green Mechanics ($3,000)
🥉 3rd Place – Hilda, VersaBall ($2,000)
🏆 Crowd Favorite – Lexx, Revvl ($1,000)

We extend our sincere appreciation to all the entrepreneurs who pitched, the judges who lent their expertise and everyone who joined us to make the evening such a success.

Connect with Top Talent at the Federal Workforce Job Fair

Is your business hiring? Don’t miss the opportunity to connect with experienced, highly skilled professionals at the upcoming Federal Workforce Job Fair on Tuesday, April 8 at 6 p.m.

Hosted in partnership with the Howard County Office of the County Executive and the Office of Workforce Development, this event is tailored to help local employers engage with federal workers exploring new opportunities in the private sector. Many of these job seekers bring valuable expertise and specialized training that can make an immediate impact on your organization.

We invite your business to participate and showcase your open positions to this talented pool of candidates.

Reserve your businesses spot today: Register Here

Navigate Maryland’s Business Landscape with Expert Guidance

Join us for an engaging session with Ivy Gales, Senior Business Development Representative with the Maryland Department of Commerce, as she shares key resources and funding opportunities available to startups and small businesses in Maryland. With over a decade of experience in business development and financial services, Ivy is a passionate advocate for economic growth, financial literacy and career readiness.

During this session, you’ll gain insights into how the Maryland Department of Commerce supports entrepreneurs through funding programs, networking opportunities and strategic resources designed to help businesses launch, grow and thrive. Whether you’re a startup founder or a small business owner, this is your chance to learn how to leverage state resources to unlock new opportunities.

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, ask questions and take your business to the next level!

Turn Relationships into Results: Social Capital for Entrepreneurs Starts Soon

This week we’re highlighting the work of Edward DeJesus, founder of Social Capital Builders and an Entrepreneur in Residence at MIC. Through his leadership in the Social Capital for Entrepreneurial Success Academy, DeJesus is helping entrepreneurs strengthen their networks, expand opportunities and transform relationships into strategic business assets. 

Since joining MIC in June 2021, Social Capital Builders has leveraged mentorship, networking and business development resources to drive lasting impact. The next Social Capital for Entrepreneurial Success Academy program begins April 1, offering entrepreneurs the tools they need to build meaningful connections and grow their businesses. 

Federal Funding Uncertainty – What You Need to Know

In today’s rapidly changing environment, federal funding uncertainties can present serious challenges for businesses of all sizes. Join us for a timely and insightful webinar, "Federal Funding Uncertainty – What Do You Need to Know?" on April 9th at 3 p.m., featuring expert guidance from Miles & Stockbridge and Aprio.

Whether you're a small business or a seasoned government contractor, this webinar will provide actionable strategies to help safeguard your operations and future-proof your business.

Opening Doors to Inclusive Education in Howard County

The Howard County community came together to celebrate the ribbon cutting of Kathryn Grace School, a new private high school for students aged 14–21 with Down Syndrome and other intellectual and developmental differences. The event featured remarks from County Executive Dr. Calvin Ball, Founding Partner Jolene Williams, Board President David Francis and a touching student speech from Kathryn Rosewag, the school’s namesake.

Kathryn Grace School will welcome its first class this September with a 10-month program and a dedicated team of educators and therapists. Enrollment is capped at 15 students in its first year, offering families a personalized, supportive learning experience.

Recent Highlights: What You Need to Know

• Howard County launches Cyber Howard Accelerator for startup businesses. Learn More

• Celebrate MTC's 40 Years of Innovation and Excellence: Become an Industry Awards Celebration Sponsor. Learn More

• Howard County Executive Ball Launches the Transformational HoCo RapidRide, a New Microtransit Service along the Route One Corridor. Learn More

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