Mark the Moment: End of Summer Bash Returns September 9

Summer’s almost officially over, but the fun is just beginning! Mark your calendars for the HCEDA End of Summer Bash on September 09 at Merriweather Lakehouse hotel.

This isn’t just another networking event – it’s a celebration! We’re bringing together the Howard County business community for an evening of laughter, connections and unforgettable memories. Unwind and connect with fellow business leaders, entrepreneurs and professionals in a relaxed and vibrant setting. Enjoy mouthwatering cuisine and sip on refreshing cocktails crafted by the talented team at Merriweather Lakehouse as we say goodbye to summer in style.

Whether you’re looking to make new business connections or simply want to enjoy a fun evening out, the HCEDA End of Summer Bash is the place to be. If you attended our Jazzy New Year event, you know we go all out. This time, we're taking it up a notch. Don’t miss out on an unforgettable celebration as we bid farewell to summer in style!

From Baltimore to Breakthrough: Exclusive MIC Offer for Ecosystem Alumni

Calling all alumni of Conscious Venture Lab, Fearless by Hutch Studio, Techstars Baltimore: did you know that the Maryland Innovation Center has a special partnership deal for you? 
 
See what the MIC can do for you with a special introductory rate: Get $100 off your Elevate or Amplify membership for 6 months just for being part of our awesome Baltimore-area startup ecosystem. 

Apply for membership today and mention this partner deal (Proof of Partner Participation is required).

Apply Now to Build, Scale and Secure Your Spot in Cyber Howard

We’ve opened applications for the next Cyber Howard Accelerator cohort—launching September 15, 2025.

This 12-week program supports early-stage cybersecurity companies with hands-on mentorship, funding connections and technical guidance. As part of Howard County’s innovation ecosystem—neighboring U.S. Cyber Command, NSA and top defense contractors—we help startups move from concept to commercialization with the tools they need to grow and succeed.

What we offer:

• Expert mentors in cybersecurity, business and investment

• Support in product development, scaling and market strategy

• Access to government, industry and investor networks

• Guidance on compliance, testing and contracting opportunities

Ready to build the future of cybersecurity? Apply now—applications close September 1.

Freetown Farm: Where Regenerative Agriculture Meets Living History

Freetown Farm is a 6.4-acre farm in COlumbia, owned by the Comm-unity Ecology Institute, a Howard County non-profit focused on cultivating healthier communities through connections with nature. The farm is designed to both produce food and be a place for comm-unity education. They demonstrate regenerative agriculture and permaculture design practices in their stewartship of this land. 

The choice of the name Freetown Farm recognizes the important history of the land. They are working to develop programming that tells the story of the land and it's historic community. The farm is across the street from the Harriet Tubman Cultural Center, which used to be a segregated school for African American students established in 1948. 

The Future of Digital Health Starts Here—Don't Miss 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 digital health space.

This exclusive event brings together investors, industry-related companies, and community partners for an evening of dynamic pitches, strategic networking and collaboration. The companies pitching at Market Pulse represent a diverse and cutting-edge landscape of digital health innovation.

Attendees will also enjoy complimentary food and drinks while connecting with forward-thinking entrepreneurs and industry leaders.

Gain access to market-ready businesses, explore high-potential investment opportunities and build meaningful partnerships with innovators shaping the future of digital health. 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.

Recent Highlights: What You Need to Know

• Howard County’s Office of Emergency Management to Host Meeting on Extreme Heat and Air Quality. Learn More

• Howard County is joining forces with the Columbia Association to collaborate on new ways to strengthen local action on climate and energy independence. Learn More
  

• Howard County Executive Calvin Ball Unveils the County’s Transformational Draft Five-Year Plan to End Homelessness. Learn More
  

• Howard County's Head Start program to expand to children as young as infants. Learn More
  

• Howard County flood protection progress celebrated after another round of heavy rain. Learn More