Shop Local. Earn Rewards. Strengthen Our Community.

Howard County is proud to announce the official launch of the Open Rewards app—a new, innovative program that rewards you for supporting local businesses. Shoppers will now earn 5% cash back every time they make a purchase at participating small businesses in the county. From family-run shops and local restaurants to specialty retailers and service providers, your everyday purchases can now earn you rewards that can be redeemed at other local favorites.

The Open Rewards program is a key part of our Local HoCo campaign, an initiative focused on elevating the small businesses that make our community vibrant, diverse and resilient. With a $200,000 investment from our FY25 budget, we're working to drive foot traffic, boost visibility and strengthen the economic foundation of our local economy.

The launch of Open Rewards coincides with Howard County Restaurant & Craft Beverage Weeks, taking place August 11–24. It’s a perfect pairing—dine at participating restaurants, enjoy limited-time menus and seasonal specials and earn rewards while you do it. Whether you’re exploring new spots or revisiting familiar favorites, this is a unique opportunity to enjoy the best of Howard County while directly supporting its local business community.

Download the Open Rewards app today and start earning: https://www.bludot.io/rewards 

Raise a Glass, Grab a Fork: Restaurant & Craft Beverage Weeks Are Here

Mark your calendar for Howard County Restaurant & Craft Beverage Weeks, a two-week celebration of local food, drink and community. From August 11 to 24, enjoy special menus, seasonal dishes and signature drinks at restaurants, breweries and distilleries across the county.

Howard County’s dining scene is full of flavor and creativity. From global cuisine to farm-to-table favorites, there's something for every taste. This is a perfect opportunity to revisit your favorite spots or discover a new local gem.

Whether you're a longtime local or just passing through, Restaurant & Craft Beverage Weeks offer a great way to experience the diversity and talent behind Howard County’s food culture. Participating locations and menus will be announced soon, so stay tuned and be sure to make your reservations early—tables tend to fill quickly.

Join us this August and explore the flavors that make Howard County a standout dining destination.

Local Flavor Takes Center Stage at the Farm-to-Fork Burger Battle

It was a delicious night at the Howard County Fair as local chefs went head-to-head in the Farm-to-Fork Burger Battle—a live cooking competition hosted by the Howard County Office of Agriculture. Held in the 4-H Activities Hall on Tuesday, August 5, the event drew a crowd of food lovers eager to see who would claim the burger crown.

Using locally grown beef and fresh ingredients from Howard County farms, three chefs competed in a high-energy, on-stage showdown. Each burger was unique, creative and packed with local flavor—showing just how versatile and exciting farm-to-table cooking can be.

Congratulations to Chef Rob from Woodstock Inn who took home the title of Burger Battle Champion! Thank you to everyone who came out to support our local chefs, farmers and food community. Events like these are a reminder of the incredible talent and ingredients right here in Howard County.

Level Up with Maryland Manufacturing 4.0 Grants

Maryland manufacturers: are you ready to modernize your operations and stay ahead of the curve? The Manufacturing 4.0 Grant Program is now open to support small and mid-sized companies investing in next-generation technologies—from robotics and automation to digital tools and advanced machinery.

Eligible projects that advance Industry 4.0 capabilities may receive funding covering 75% of costs for small manufacturers (3–50 employees) and 50% for mid-sized companies (51–250 employees), with grant awards ranging from $25,000 to $500,000. At least 20% of total funds are reserved for small manufacturers.

Whether you’re looking to boost productivity, improve retention or scale smarter, this is a valuable opportunity to transform your business for the future.

Let Us Come to You: October BAW Business Visits Now Open

Each fall, in partnership with Howard County Executive Calvin Ball, we lead a countywide initiative to visit local businesses and hear directly from the people powering our economy. Joined by elected officials and community partners, we conduct one-hour visits to your business location to learn about your successes, challenges and what you need to thrive. We also offer alternative meeting locations for home-based businesses.

Why Sign Up?

• Showcase your business to county and community leaders and stakeholders

• Share feedback that helps shape future support and services

• Build relationships with economic development professionals

All Howard County businesses – large, small, new and established – are encouraged to participate

Space is limited, so register today! Registration will close on Friday, September 12,2025.

Celebrate the End of Summer in Style— Early Bird Pricing Ends Soon!

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!

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

• The Buy Maryland Cybersecurity Tax Credit provides an incentive for Qualified Maryland Companies to purchase cybersecurity technologies and services from a Qualified Maryland Cybersecurity Seller. Learn More

• Turn up the volume and kick back at AMPED in the Park, a free outdoor concert series featuring live music, great company and local eats on August 7th. Learn More

• Join Columbia Association for carnival-style games, treats and a high-energy concert on August 16th. Plus, you can drop off school supply donations for Prepare for Success to support Howard County students in need. Learn More