Celebrating Business Appreciation Week

and Economic Development in Howard County

This week, we celebrate the people and partnerships that keep Howard County’s economy strong and resilient.

Business Appreciation Week (October 20–24) kicked off with a lively breakfast at Busboys and Poets, where local business leaders, community partners, and county officials came together to share ideas, celebrate growth, and reaffirm our shared commitment to progress.

Throughout the week, ambassador teams made up of county department heads, government officials, community organization leaders, and HCEDA staff are visiting businesses across the county. These visits give us the opportunity to listen, learn, and understand how innovation is unfolding in real time—from small startups to large employers driving regional growth.

Aligned with Maryland Economic Development Week, this effort highlights the strength of Howard County’s economy and the collaboration that drives it. Together with partners across the state, we are shining a light on the entrepreneurs, federal workers turned founders, and community innovators who are shaping the future of business in Maryland.

Celebrating LMD’s Grand Opening and New Chapter in Howard County

We’re proud to celebrate the official grand opening and relocation of LMD, a woman-owned marketing and communications agency that has brought 40 new jobs to Howard County!

For more than 50 years, LMD has been delivering impactful campaigns for clients such as the Department of Homeland Security, the U.S. Coast Guard and the Army National Guard — including the nationally recognized “If You See Something, Say Something” campaign.

This move marks an exciting new chapter for LMD and underscores Howard County’s position as a hub for mission-driven businesses that value innovation, collaboration, and community. We're proud to support LMD through this relocation, providing the official ribbon and citation recognizing their contributions to Maryland’s economy and communications industry.

A Clear Vision for the Future: Ellicott City Vision Opens in Columbia

We’re excited to celebrate the grand opening of Ellicott City Vision, a new healthcare practice dedicated to helping patients on their journey to better vision health.

Founded by Dr. Baran and Dr. Duan, former colleagues at Ellicott City Total Eye Care, this new practice was born from their shared passion for patient care and their commitment to continuing the relationships they’ve built in our community.

Located in Columbia, Maryland, Ellicott City Vision now operates in a 1,550 sq. ft. facility with a dedicated team of four employees, offering high-quality, compassionate eye care for all ages.

Driving Digital Transformation from London to Howard County

Accelerate Climate Action at the Maryland Climate Forward Forum

Climate action cannot wait. Join us on Wednesday, November 12 at the Oakland Mills Interfaith Center in Columbia, Maryland, for the Maryland Climate Forward Forum, hosted by Howard County Government in partnership with the Howard County Conservancy. 

This event brings together top state officials, local climate practitioners and industry partners to share strategies, forge partnerships and accelerate progress toward Maryland’s bold sustainability goals. Expect dynamic keynote conversations, breakout sessions addressing clean energy, resilient communities, and climate finance, and an optional field tour of Historic Ellicott City’s “Safe & Sound” resiliency project.

Breezy Willow Farm Brings Fresh Flavor to Howard County

Located in Woodbine, Breezy Willow Farm is a family-run farm offering a full CSA program, handcrafted soaps and a wide variety of fresh produce and local goods. Their country market brings together community members looking for healthy, locally sourced products with a personal touch. 
 
Farms like Breezy Willow thrive with help from the HCEDA, which champions small farms through strategic support and growth opportunities.

Recent Highlights: What You Need to Know

•  The State of the Workforce 2025 will be on Wednesday, October 29th. Learn More
• The Howard County Veterans Foundation named Elza K. Redman Jr. as grand marshal of the Howard County Veterans Day Parade on Nov. 9. Learn More
  
• Howard County hosts resource fair for federal workers impacted by government shutdown. Learn More
• Governor Moore Announces Free Transit for Federal Workers on MARC and Commuter Bus during Government Shutdown. Learn More
• The BRITE: Sales 101 Series launches November 5th, helping entrepreneurs build a repeatable system that turns leads into loyal customers. Learn More
• Howard County Executive Calvin Ball Announces Foreclosure Prevention, Food and Utility Assistance for Federal Workers Impacted by Government Shutdown. Learn More
• Gateway Transformation Ignited with County Executive Calvin Ball Signing Innovation District Master Plan. Learn More
• Howard County Paves Way for Increased Agritourism. Learn More