IntelliGenesis Thrives in Howard County’s Cyber Ecosystem

Howard County’s cyber economy keeps gaining strength, and IntelliGenesis LLC is a prime example of why. Founded by United States Air Force Veteran Angie Lienert, the company has grown here for more than a decade because this community offers what cyber businesses need to succeed: talent, connectivity, and real support.

Angie launched IntelliGenesis’ first office in Howard County in 2010 and chose to stay and expand again in 2020. She credits the county’s ecosystem — from Columbia Gateway’s deep bench of tech partners to the resources provided by HCEDA and the Maryland Innovation Center — for opening doors that would have been out of reach elsewhere.

Howard County is deeply committed to supporting veterans like Angie as they build and scale companies that strengthen our national security and drive innovation. For early-stage and growing cyber firms, access to trusted partners and a collaborative community is essential, and this region delivers.

CloudOffix Expands to the U.S. With Support from MIC Global

We’re excited to welcome CloudOffix, a Turkish tech company, to the MIC Global program. Their AI-native platform unifies data, apps and workflows into one connected system, helping businesses lead with clean, reliable data.

Through MIC Global, CloudOffix will access virtual mentorship, market-entry support and connections that prepare international companies to expand into the U.S. We are proud to support global innovators as they explore opportunities in Howard County and beyond.

Where Cyber Startups Grow Strong: New Cohort Opens January 15

The next Cyber Howard Accelerator cohort opens January 15, 2026, supporting early-stage cybersecurity startups ready to build, test, and scale. The program offers mentorship, technical support, industry access, and real-world guidance to help founders move from prototype to commercialization. With NSA, U.S. Cyber Command, and major defense partners nearby, Howard County is one of the strongest places in the country to launch a cyber venture.

Early submissions are welcome. Reviews start January 15.

Bringing Howard County Together for a New Year Celebration

We are hosting the annual New Year celebration for HCEDA partners and friends, business owners, entrepreneurs, and those who wish to do business with them. This event will be at The Blackwall Barn & Lodge in Columbia and feature a gourmet menu and open bar.

Join us for an evening of networking, fine food, full bar, and jazz. The menu includes lobster tails, crab cakes, beef short ribs and pork osso bucco. The band is none other than Unified Jazz Ensemble, innovative performers of jazz standards and original compositions.

Interested in sponsoring this extraordinary event? Reach out to us at mhaltmeyer@hceda.org to learn more and take advantage of this opportunity.

Strengthen Your Financial Foundation with the BRITE Core: Finance Series

Financial uncertainty is one of the biggest challenges early-stage founders face. The BRITE Core: Finance Series was built to change that. This three-part workshop gives entrepreneurs the clarity and tools they need to understand their numbers, strengthen their financial foundation, and make confident decisions about growth.

Through plain-language instruction and real-world examples, participants learn the essential metrics behind a healthy business, including runway, margins, burn rate, MRR, ARR, cost per lead, and cost per acquisition. The series also provides a simple weekly dashboard and guidance that supports smarter choices around pricing, hiring, and long-term strategy.

The BRITE Core: Finance Series helps founders take control of their finances and build a business that’s ready to scale.

Manor Hill Farm Lights Up the Season in Howard County

Nestled in the countryside of Ellicott City, Manor Hill Farm has grown into one of Howard County’s most distinctive agricultural destinations. The farm is home to Maryland’s first farm brewery, a thriving produce operation, and a welcoming community space where visitors can experience agriculture in a fresh, modern way.

Manor Hill truly is a one-of-a-kind destination. Guests can enjoy small-batch craft beer, brick-oven Trolley pizza, friendly taproom service, and plenty of farm-animal encounters. The atmosphere blends rural charm with creative hospitality, making it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors.

This season, the farm is adding something extra special: a unique and free Holiday Light Display for the community to enjoy. Families are invited to walk the grounds, take in the festive sights, and make new holiday memories. 

We are proud to support innovative agribusinesses like Manor Hill that strengthen the local food economy, preserve agricultural land, and create destinations rooted in connection, creativity, and community.

Recent Highlights: What You Need to Know

• Howard County Executive Calvin Ball Provides Comprehensive Update on Long Reach Village Center Revitalization Project. Learn More

• Howard County Executive Calvin Ball Launches 5th Annual 2025 Holiday Lights Map. Learn More

• County Executive Calvin Ball kicked off the 10th Annual Howard County Toys for Tots Campaign. You can donate toys at the Maryland Innovation Center or any local drop off centers. Learn More
• Discover the Best of Columbia This Christmas: Visit River Hill Chanukah House for a Unique Holiday Tradition. Learn More
  
• Escape the city this winter and discover Howard County. From charming downtowns to scenic parks and live performances, there’s something to delight every visitor. Learn More
  
• The Color Burst Ice Rink at Merriweather District is back for the 2025 – 2026 season. Learn More