Market Pulse Pitch: Meet the Cyber Companies Driving Innovation

We invite you to join us for the upcoming Market Pulse Pitch on May 20, an exciting event where emerging cybersecurity and technology companies will present to a distinguished panel of expert judges. This is your opportunity to witness the next generation of innovation and connect with leaders shaping the future.

Tickets are now available and selling quickly. We encourage you to reserve your seat today.

Participating Companies

• Hopr: A Gartner-recognized cybersecurity innovator specializing in Automated Moving Target Defense (AMTD), with patented technologies like CHIPS™ and the SEE™ protocol that block threats before they can connect.

• IntelliGenesis: A leader in cyber intelligence, AI, and machine learning solutions, supporting critical defense and intelligence missions with data-driven technologies.

• TeamWorx Security: Developers of Hive-IQ, a platform providing real-time, secure collaboration tools to support critical cyber operations with advanced analytics and rapid response capabilities.

• Sentinel Forge Technologies: Providers of resilient cybersecurity solutions focused on secure software development and system hardening for defense, intelligence, and critical infrastructure sectors.

• CyDeploy: An AI-driven platform that creates digital twins of IT environments to securely test updates and configuration changes without risking downtime.

Purchase your tickets today to be part of this premier event showcasing groundbreaking companies, expert judges, and the future of cybersecurity innovation.

LIFT Your Business with Flexible, Low-Interest Financing

We are proud to offer the LIFT Microloan Fund—a flexible, low-interest financing option designed to support the growth and success of small businesses in Howard County. The Leveraging Investment for Future Transformation (LIFT) Fund provides loans ranging from $10,000 to $30,000 with terms of three to five years, helping eligible businesses secure the capital they need to expand, invest in equipment, or stabilize operations.

Eligible uses include working capital, inventory, equipment purchases, improvements, and build-outs. In addition to financial assistance, recipients gain access to business coaching and training opportunities at the Maryland Innovation Center, supporting long-term success.

The LIFT Fund is open to small businesses operating in Howard County, particularly those that are minority-owned, women-owned, veteran-owned, or part of socially disadvantaged groups. If you’ve been in business at least one year and need affordable capital to move your business forward, this program is built to support you.

Access to early-stage funding is critical for business growth, especially for entrepreneurs who may not qualify for traditional lending. The LIFT Fund helps bridge that gap with manageable terms and personalized support. Whether you need capital for equipment, staffing, or scaling operations, this fund offers the resources and structure to help you take the next step confidently.

Learn more and begin your application at: www.howardcountyeda.org/lift-microloan-fund 

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.

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• Howard County Executive Calvin Ball Proclaims April 25th “Arbor Day” in Howard County. Learn More

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

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