Turning the Page on Progress:

How Libraries Power Howard County’s Growth

Howard County is moving forward with a bold new vision for the Columbia Lakefront. The planned Howard County Library System Central Library will serve as both a civic anchor and an economic catalyst, supporting learning, innovation, and community connection.

Following the announcement from County Executive Calvin Ball and HCLS President & CEO Tonya Aikens, renewed momentum is building around this transformational project. To mark this milestone, we’re proud to release a new video series, Libraries That Power Our Economy, which highlights how the library system strengthens workforce development, entrepreneurship, and innovation across all six branches.

From makerspaces and business databases to sustainability programs and creative learning labs, the Howard County Library System continues to play a vital role in powering our local economy and preparing residents for the future.

Thank You for a Successful Business Appreciation Week

We concluded another outstanding Business Appreciation Week, and we want to thank everyone who made it possible.

Across Howard County, our teams completed 108 business visits, connecting directly with local employers to celebrate their innovation, share resources, and listen to their experiences. We were proud to have 38 ambassadors representing county departments and community partners, with County Executive Calvin Ball personally leading 49 visits, including 7 with companies at the Maryland Innovation Center.

The celebration continued at the Business Resource Expo, where 110 business owners and entrepreneurs connected with 24 resource partners and 9 showcase companies offering expertise and insights to help local businesses thrive.

We are grateful to the Howard County Government, our ambassadors, and all participating businesses for their partnership and commitment to strengthening our economy. Your collaboration embodies the innovation and community spirit that make Howard County a great place to live, work, and grow.

To view photos from Business Appreciation Week, visit our Flickr page.

Accelerate Climate Action at the Maryland Climate Forward Forum

Join businesses, local practitioners, policymakers, and private sector partners to share strategies, forge partnerships, and drive Maryland’s continued progress on sustainability at the “Maryland Climate Forward Forum” on Wednesday, November 12th in Columbia, MD.

Learn more and register by November 7. Come to exchange best practices from dynamic keynotes, peers, and new connections to accelerate local and state climate and sustainability goals. 

Housing and the Economy: Building a Stronger Foundation for Growth

Housing plays a vital role in Maryland’s economic strength and community well-being. The State of the Economy: Housing and the Economy report from the Maryland Comptroller’s Office provides timely insight into how affordability, supply, and workforce needs intersect to shape our state’s competitiveness.

Challenges such as rising construction costs and limited supply remain, but the report also highlights opportunities through smart growth, infrastructure investment, and public-private collaboration.

For Howard County, these findings reinforce our focus on balanced growth and sustainable development. As we advance projects like the Gateway Innovation District, we continue working toward a strong, inclusive economy that supports both residents and businesses.

Cyber Howard Accelerator: Building Smarter Solutions for a Safer Future

The Cyber Howard Accelerator continues to build momentum as its second cohort works toward developing market-ready solutions for an evolving cybersecurity landscape. The latest session, Problem/Solution Development and Customer Fit, challenged founders to refine their value propositions and align innovations with real customer needs.

Led by moderators Chuck Bubeck and Patrick Wynn, the session featured Colonel (Ret.) George Lamont, founder of LBK Partners, and Chip Stewart, Principal at RSM US LLP. Together, they shared lessons drawn from decades of cybersecurity leadership across defense, government, and enterprise sectors.

Through dynamic discussion and hands-on dialogue, participants explored methods for identifying customer pain points, capturing feedback, and balancing customization with scalable growth.

The next Cyber Howard Accelerator cohort begins in January 2026. Registration opens January 15 — stay tuned for details on how to apply and be part of Howard County’s growing cyber ecosystem.

From Idea to Action: BRITE Series Helps You Build Your Business Plan

Every successful business starts with a plan — and the BRITE Series is here to help you create yours.

The newly expanded BRITE program offers everything founders and small business owners need to turn ideas into a solid business plan. Designed to guide entrepreneurs step by step, BRITE combines mentorship, marketing, and strategic planning to help you move from concept to launch with confidence.

The journey begins with Sales 101, a three-part workshop that teaches the fundamentals of building a sales system that works. Through interactive sessions focused on pipeline building, positioning, and closing, participants learn how to attract quality leads and convert them into loyal customers.

You’ll walk away with practical tools, templates, and proven strategies to grow your business — even if you’re a team of one.

Farm-Fresh for the Holidays:

Sho Nuf Turkeys Brings Local Flavor to Your Table

With Thanksgiving right around the corner, Sho Nuf Turkeys in Fulton is helping families across Howard County prepare for the holidays with locally raised, free-range turkeys known for their quality and care.

Committed to humane handling and natural farming practices, Sho Nuf has become a trusted source for holiday meals that bring local flavor and tradition to the table. Their turkeys are raised right here in Howard County, offering residents a farm-to-table option they can feel good about.

Recent Highlights: What You Need to Know

• Voices for Manufacturing Community Conversations Between Manufacturers and State Legislators in Howard County is November 17th. Learn More
  
• Howard County Executive Calvin Ball provided a comprehensive update Thursday on the implementation of the Downtown Columbia Plan. Learn More
  
• Howard County Executive Calvin Ball Launches Initiative Expanding Commitment to Hiring Individuals with Disabilities. Learn More
  
• Howard County announces major affordable housing initiative to address severe shortage. Learn More