Growing Forward: Howard County’s New Office of Agriculture 

Howard County has always been deeply connected to its farming roots. From rolling fields and family-run operations to seasonal festivals and roadside farm stands, agriculture is part of the fabric of life here. Now, for the first time, it has an official home. 

Earlier this month, County Executive Calvin Ball, joined by Maryland Secretary of Agriculture Kevin Atticks and members of the local agriculture community, celebrated the grand opening of the Howard County Office of Agriculture (OoA) at West Friendship Park. The new office, located in the renovated historic Hebb House, is the County’s first dedicated agricultural office—and just the third of its kind in the state. 

“Since I became Howard County Executive, we have worked hard to prioritize the needs of our agricultural community, both as businesses and as a valued way of life,” said Ball. “With the opening of our Office of Agriculture here at West Friendship Park, we are bringing much-needed support and resources closer to our county’s farming community so they can continue to thrive, grow and prosper for generations to come.” 

Financially Fit: Free Programs to Strengthen Your Business

April is Financial Literacy Month—a perfect time to shine a light on one of the most essential skills for any entrepreneur or small business owner: understanding your numbers.

Whether you're launching a startup, managing cash flow, or planning for long-term growth, financial literacy is not just helpful—it’s critical. Strong financial knowledge empowers business owners to make informed decisions, secure funding, manage risk, and build resilience through changing market conditions.

At HCEDA, we believe that financial literacy is a cornerstone of business success, which is why we're proud to offer a lineup of upcoming workshops designed to equip our business community with the tools they need to thrive.

Upcoming Financial Literacy Programs

• No es personal, es la empresa

Wednesday, April 17 |  Spanish
Understanding how to separate your personal finances from your business finances is key to sustainability and growth. This Spanish only session will walk entrepreneurs through how to structure and manage finances with the business in mind, not just the individual. Ideal for new entrepreneurs and family-run businesses.

• SBA Loans 101: Your Guide to Funding Success

Thursday, April 25
Not sure where to begin with SBA loans? This session will break down the different types of SBA-backed loans, how to apply, and what lenders are looking for. Learn how to position your business for funding success.

• Borrowing for Small Business

Tuesday, May 7
Access to capital is one of the biggest hurdles small businesses face. This session explores traditional and alternative lending options, credit readiness, and strategies to borrow responsibly for long-term 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!

Navigating the Leap from Fed to Founder

Ready to take the leap from government service to entrepreneurship? From Fed to Founder is a virtual session created for professionals exploring a path beyond the public sector. Led by strategist and communications expert Faye McCray, this conversation will uncover the steps to building a successful business—starting with your story.

Drawing from her rich background in law, media, and entrepreneurship, Faye will share strategies to help you refine your brand narrative, build strategic partnerships and position yourself in the market. Whether you're still weighing your options or already on the journey, this session will help you identify your transferable strengths, tackle common challenges and take confident steps toward founding your own venture.

Get Funded: Unlock SBA Loans for Your Business

Looking to grow your small business but unsure how to secure funding? Join us for an informative session on Small Business Administration (SBA) loan programs and learn how to position your business for success.

In this session, you’ll learn:

• What an SBA loan is and how it works
• The different SBA funding programs available to small businesses
• Eligibility requirements and how to qualify
• What makes a strong SBA loan application

Whether you're just getting started or ready to expand, this session will give you the knowledge and confidence to pursue SBA funding.

Reserve your spot and take the first step toward financing your business goals.

Recent Highlights: What You Need to Know

• Are you a federal worker who lost your job? Here’s what you should know. Learn More
  

• Leadership Howard County holds Big Event with former astronaut. Learn More
  

• Howard County-based nonprofits can apply for up to $6,000 annually to support creative initiatives. Learn More
  

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

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

• MEDA Announces $8.81 Return On Investment From Every Dollar Invested in Economic Development in Maryland. Learn More