Tradepoint Atlantic Launches $100M Project in Howard County

Howard County is set to welcome a major new investment as Tradepoint Atlantic announced plans to establish a state-of-the-art logistics and industrial hub in Savage. The project—called Tradepoint at Savage Crossing—will bring a $100 million investment and approximately 500 new supply chain and logistics jobs to the Route 1 corridor.

Located at 9299 Washington Boulevard, the development will feature 500,000 square feet of Class A flex space across three buildings, designed to support warehousing, manufacturing, and distribution needs. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2026, with full buildout expected by 2029.

This expansion highlights Howard County’s strong appeal as a business destination, offering strategic access to regional infrastructure, a diverse economy and a commitment to thoughtful redevelopment. It also aligns with the County’s efforts to revitalize the Route 1 corridor through initiatives like the new Eastern Howard County Enterprise Zone, which provides incentives for job creation and property investment.

Consult Lemonade Opens Doors to Higher Pay and Brighter Futures

Consult Lemonade continues to make a meaningful difference in career development and workforce training. Exactly 3 years into their existence, the organization has helped 124 individuals secure new, higher-paying jobs or achieve promotions—with many reaching six-figure salaries.

A key part of this success is Consult Lemonade’s updated online job training platform, which focuses on preparing professionals for careers in tech. The platform currently supports 51 users, offering digital content, coaching, hands-on training and career prep events. For a $99 annual member donation, participants can access a range of resources designed to help them pivot or advance in their careers. The goal is to reach 100 active users by year’s end.

Building on its commitment to youth workforce development, Consult Lemonade launched a 17-week initiative in March for young adults aged 17–24. The program enrolled 21 participants, including a record 16 from Howard County. Graduates will showcase their skills at a Tech Summit in July, followed by a hiring event in September where entry-level salaries start at $58,000.

Consult Lemonade is also strengthening industry connections. At the Maryland Innovation Center, the organization joined forces with affiliate CEOs to present a multigenerational AI training event. The event was sponsored by Doric Chandrasekaran, CEO of Gen Y Technologies and a Consult Lemonade Amplify Affiliate, alongside Nancy Clark, CEO of Elevate Affiliate Company AIsezz.

In recognition of its impact, Consult Lemonade received a Community Empowerment Award from WHUR 96.3, Howard University’s radio station, which honored eight organizations across the region for their work uplifting communities.

$20,000 Grants Available to Support Growth and Innovation

In partnership with Hello Alice and the Global Entrepreneurship Network, the Energizing Small Business grant program offers $20,000 awards to help businesses across Central Maryland grow, innovate and better serve their communities. Since 2021, BGE has awarded more than $14.8 million in funding to 741 small businesses across the region.

If you’re a business owner working to take your next step—whether it’s hiring staff, launching a new product or expanding your reach—this grant may provide the support you need.

Applications are open now and due by June 13, 2025, at 6 p.m. ET. If you applied in a previous round but were not selected, you are encouraged to apply again with updated information. Apply through Hello Alice.

This is an excellent opportunity to secure funding that can move your business forward. We encourage all eligible Howard County businesses to apply.

SBA Announces Low-Interest Loans for Businesses Impacted by 2024 Drought

The U.S. Small Business Administration has announced the availability of low-interest federal disaster loans to assist small businesses and private nonprofit organizations that sustained economic losses due to the drought that occurred between June 20 and September 30, 2024. This disaster declaration covers several counties in the region, including Howard, Carroll, Frederick and Baltimore County in Maryland, as well as Adams and York counties in Pennsylvania.

Through the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, eligible small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, aquaculture enterprises and private nonprofits may apply for loans to support working capital needs directly impacted by the drought—even if no physical damage occurred.

This is a vital opportunity for impacted organizations to stabilize operations and recover from financial disruption. For full details and application information, please visit the SBA disaster assistance website.

Where Cyber Innovation Meets Opportunity: Market Pulse Pitch

Join us at Market Pulse Pitch for an unparalleled opportunity to engage with the brightest innovators and most promising ventures in the cybersecurity product space.

This exclusive event brings together investors, cyber product companies, and community partners for an evening of dynamic pitches, strategic networking, and collaboration. Attendees will also enjoy complimentary food and drinks while connecting with forward-thinking entrepreneurs and industry leaders.

The companies pitching at Market Pulse represent a diverse and cutting-edge landscape of cyber technology innovation—from powerful software platforms to next-generation hardware solutions. These are product-focused ventures, not service providers, with real solutions ready for market.

Gain access to market-ready businesses, explore high-potential investment opportunities, and build meaningful partnerships with innovators shaping the future of cybersecurity. Whether you're seeking your next major deal, a strategic product collaboration, or new pathways to growth, Market Pulse is designed to ignite connections and drive real results.

Money Moves: Expert Tips to Fund and Grow Your Business

Securing funding and managing finances effectively are critical to the success of any business. Join us for an insightful session with Sharif J. Small, a Tax Wealth Strategist, Real Estate Developer, and Business Consultant Advisor, as he shares expert guidance on business financial management and funding strategies.

This session will cover:

• Funding Options – How to access capital through loans, grants, and investors

• Financial Management – Key strategies for budgeting, cash flow, and tax planning

• Business Growth – Leveraging financial tools to scale and sustain long-term success

With 20+ years of experience helping small, minority and veteran-owned businesses thrive, Sharif brings actionable insights to help you make informed financial decisions. Don’t miss this opportunity to unlock funding opportunities and strengthen your business’s financial foundation!

Leases, Listings & Leverage: Demystifying Commercial Real Estate

Finding the right commercial space is a crucial step in growing your business, but the process can be complex. Join us for an informative session led by an experienced commercial real estate broker who will break down everything you need to know—leasing vs. buying, negotiating terms, understanding market trends, and avoiding common pitfalls. Whether you're a startup looking for your first location or an established business ready to expand, this session will equip you with the knowledge to confidently navigate the commercial real estate landscape.

Recent Highlights: What You Need to Know

• UMG Physical Therapy has opened a new, family-owned facility in Columbia, Maryland. Learn More

• Howard County Executive Calvin Ball Unveils Balanced Fiscal Year 2026 Operating Budget Proposal. Learn More

• Howard County Executive Calvin Ball Presents Bold Plan to Expand Childcare. Learn More

• Help shape the future of arts and culture in Howard County by taking the quick Arts and Culture Survey today. Learn More

• Johns Hopkins Howard County Medical Center received a $3 million grant from The Kahlert Foundation to support hospital renovations creating a 29-bed observation unit. Learn More

• HCEDA is inviting local artists to exhibit their work in our Accelerator Space at the Kenneth S Ulman Innovation Hub. 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