Cyber Howard Accelerator Launches with First-Ever Cohort

We officially kicked off the Cyber Howard Accelerator today at the Technology Advancement Center, marking the start of a transformational journey for seven cutting-edge cybersecurity startups. This inaugural cohort is ready to build, scale and innovate right here in Howard County, a growing hub for cyber innovation.

A special thank you to Howard County Executive Calvin Ball for his ongoing support, as well as our incredible partners TEDCO, DataTribe, TeamWorx and Cyndi Gula for their invaluable participation and mentorship.

This year’s cohort includes some of the region’s most promising cyber innovators: Hopr, LegioX Cyber Technologies, Precise IT Contractors (AuditBox), RDO19, Sentinel Forge Technologies, VeraVendor AI and Qerberos. These companies are here to not only grow their businesses, but to help shape the future of cybersecurity.

Stay tuned as we follow their progress, share behind-the-scenes insights, and highlight how Howard County is becoming a destination for cybersecurity innovation.

Building the Future of Childcare, One Apprentice at a Time

Cradlerock Children’s Center is addressing the childcare workforce shortage through an innovative apprenticeship model that trains passionate individuals into certified early childhood educators in under two years. With support from Howard Community College, the Howard County Office of Workforce Development, and funding through HCEDA’s Apprenticeship Opportunity Program, Cradlerock’s efforts are creating long-term career pathways and strengthening the local childcare system. This collaborative approach is now serving as a model for others across the region.

Market Pulse Pitch: Meet the Judges Powering Cyber 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.

• Teddy Gresser: Director of Seed Funds at TEDCO, leading investment strategies in cybersecurity, SaaS, fintech, life sciences, and robotics, and advancing Maryland’s innovation economy.
• Brandon Cannaday: Cybersecurity Program Manager at the Maryland Department of Commerce, specializing in IT infrastructure, network operations, and building Maryland’s cybersecurity ecosystem.
• Marcelle Lee: Cybersecurity researcher, educator, and consultant with expertise in threat hunting, digital forensics, malware analysis, and network intrusion detection, dedicated to advancing cybersecurity best practices.
• Gregg Smith: CEO of the Technology Advancement Center and a serial entrepreneur, having led ten successful technology exits totaling over $750 million, with extensive leadership experience in cybersecurity and mobile technology companies.
• Maurice Boissiere: Startup advisor and investor at DataTribe with 20+ years of experience in early-stage venture-backed companies. He also serves on advisory boards at the University of Maryland and UM Ventures, supporting entrepreneurship and innovation across the region.
  

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

Save the Date – County Executive Ball’s Innovation Summit

Join us for County Executive Ball’s Innovation Summit – a full-day event dedicated to the future of technology, collaboration, and digital transformation. This is your chance to connect with innovators, business leaders, and visionaries shaping the next wave of digital impact.

Date: June 3, 2025
Time: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Location: The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory

Mark your calendar and get ready for a day of insights, networking, and groundbreaking ideas. More details to come!

Veterans Monument Breaks Ground at Columbia Lakefront

Construction is officially underway on the Howard County Veterans and Military Families Monument, following a groundbreaking ceremony set for Thursday, June 12 at 11 a.m. at Vivian C. “Millie” Bailey Park in Columbia.

Led by the Howard County Veterans Foundation, the monument will feature a three-star sculpture symbolizing the military community, service members, and those lost in the line of duty. A reflecting pond and engraved bench will offer space for remembrance.

Backed by $3 million in public and private funding, the monument honors more than 14,000 local residents connected to military service and will serve as a lasting tribute to veterans and their families.

Sip, Savor, Connect – Boyd Cru Wines Opens at Savage Mill

Our team was excited to support Boyd Cru Wines as they opened their new tasting room at Savage Mill this past weekend. Launched by husband and wife duo Matthew and Jon’ll Boyd in April 2023, Boyd Cru Wines crafts a variety of wines, including reds, rosés, and whites.

The tasting room offers more than just great wine. It will host a range of events, from live music nights and pairing dinners to wine education classes. Visitors can also explore unique features like The Art Connect, which showcases work from local minority artists and The Cru Corner, a dedicated space for minority-owned small businesses to feature their products.

BGE Empowering Local Businesses for a Brighter Future

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.

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

• The Howard County Arts Council is now accepting applications for its HoCo Arts & Culture Mini-Grants. Learn More

• Montgomery County and Howard County Leaders to Announce Major Regional Transit Partnership. Learn More

• Columbia has been named one of Livability’s Top 100 Best Places to Live. Learn More

• Howard County Executive Calvin Ball Highlights Success of Innovative Complete Streets Demonstration Project on US 1. Learn More

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