Brain Balance Launches with Help from HCEDA Loan

Howard County recently welcomed a new Brain Balance Centers, a neurodevelopmental program that offers an integrated approach with non-medical, non-pharmaceutical solutions designed to help clients improve focus, academic performance, and social interaction skills that is redefining possibilities. This ribbon-cutting marks the opening of Brain Balance’s first location in Maryland, a milestone for both, the business, and the community.

To support the launch of the new center, HCEDA provided a Catalyst VLT Loan , which helped cover equipment purchases and working capital needs. Brain Balance joins a growing list of businesses that are using Catalyst loan funds to expand and innovate in Howard County.

We’re proud to support their mission and we welcome Brain Balance to our business community.

Howard County’s Innovation Summit Is Back — And Bolder Than Ever

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

Fuel Your Farm’s Future with Howard County’s Innovation Grant

Howard County is currently accepting applications for the Agricultural Grant for Innovation and Expansion (AGIE), a program designed to support the growth and diversification of the county’s agricultural sector. The AGIE program provides direct financial assistance to eligible agricultural producers and processors seeking to enhance their operations through innovation, infrastructure, or expanded production capabilities.

Applicants must operate within Howard County and may include crop or livestock producers, agricultural cooperatives, seafood processors, or primary and secondary timber product processors. Grant awards range from $1,000 to $20,000 and may be used to fund research and development, production buildings, processing facilities, major fixtures, and other capital improvements that strengthen agricultural output and sustainability.

Applications are accepted annually between August and June, subject to available funding. The deadline for completed applications for the current cycle is June 6, 2025. All submissions must be sent via email to Aggrants@howardcountymd.gov.

Step Into Your Next Opportunity at the Howard County Career Fair

Join us on June 4 at Howard Community College, Burrill Galleria, for the Howard County Career Fair, designed to connect employees with new career opportunities. Meet with hiring professionals, enhance your job search and take the next step in your professional journey.

Take advantage of:

• On-site networking with recruiters and industry professionals

• Free resume critiques to align your experience with private-sector roles

• Professional headshots to strengthen your online presence

Explore new possibilities, gain valuable insights and connect with employers looking for experienced professionals like you.

For more information, please email HoCoHelp@howardcountymd.gov.

Smarter Growth Starts Here: AI Strategies for Everyday Business

AI is transforming the way businesses operate, but where do you start? Join us for "AI-Powered Growth: How to Use Artificial Intelligence to Transform Your Business", an engaging session designed for business owners at all levels of AI understanding. Led by Jason Michael Perry, Fractional Chief AI Officer, this event will break down AI in simple, actionable terms.

What You'll Learn:

• What type of AI tools and agents can help your business
• How AI can improve customer experience and efficiency
• The best ways to integrate AI into your operations

Whether you’re just starting to explore AI or looking for smarter ways to scale, this session will give you the insights and strategies to confidently bring AI into your business. Don’t miss this opportunity to stay ahead of the curve!

From Fed to Franchise: Your Roadmap to Business Ownership Starts Here

Join us virtually for a three-part expert-led series designed to help current and former federal employees explore the path to franchise ownership. Whether you're early in your research or ready to take action, each session will provide the insights, strategies and resources to confidently navigate the transition into entrepreneurship.

What You'll Learn:

• Franchise basics and ownership models

• Strategic approaches to evaluating opportunities

• How to fund your franchise with confidence

• Tools, timelines and steps to get started

Don’t miss this expert-led virtual series built specifically for current and former federal employees exploring franchise ownership. Whether you're just starting out or ready to move forward, you'll walk away with the clarity, tools, and next steps to confidently launch your entrepreneurial journey.

Recent Highlights: What You Need to Know

• Howard County Farmers Markets Open for the 2025 Season. Learn More

• Howard County cities rank high on a national best places to live list. Learn More
  

• Merriweather District Hosts 5th Annual Summer Series of Entertainment. Learn More
  

• Howard County Juneteenth Community Day & Block Party Saturday, June 21. Learn More
  

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