From Concept to Care: MedTech Companies Pitch What’s Next

Join the us for an exhilarating pitch competition spotlighting some of the region’s most promising MedTech companies. With $15,000 in cash prizes up for grabs, this is your chance to witness innovation at its finest and support companies advancing the future of healthcare through devices, diagnostics, and digital health solutions.

Be among the first to experience the official unveiling of HoCo Health+, a new initiative connecting MedTech companies with clinical partners to validate, pilot, and accelerate real-world healthcare solutions.

Building What’s Next in Cybersecurity: Cohort III Begins

The Cyber Howard Accelerator Cohort III officially launched, bringing together the newest group of cybersecurity startups for the program kickoff.

Founders connected with mentors, program leaders, and fellow cohort members while getting an overview of the 12-week accelerator and what to expect in the weeks ahead. The session focused on collaboration, refining products, and preparing companies for growth, investment, and market entry.

The Cyber Howard Accelerator supports early-stage cybersecurity companies with mentorship, technical guidance, and connections to industry and government partners. Located near U.S. Cyber Command, NSA, and major defense contractors, Howard County provides a strong foundation for companies building the future of cybersecurity.

A Sweet Success Story: Growing Beyond Baltimore with The Charmery

Happiness through ice cream. That’s the idea behind The Charmery, a Maryland-based ice cream shop known for handcrafted flavors inspired by Baltimore and the surrounding region. Today, The Charmery has become a staple in Columbia, bringing its creative flavors and welcoming atmosphere to the Howard County community.

The Columbia location marked The Charmery’s first expansion outside the Baltimore area. As the team prepared to grow, they wanted more than just financing. They were looking for a partner that understood the Howard County community and could help guide their next step.

We partnered with The Charmery to help make that expansion possible. Our Catalyst VLT supported the Columbia location, offering a nontraditional financing option when traditional bank lending didn’t align with their growth plans. We also connected The Charmery with local partners and provided insight into the Howard County market, helping them establish a strong presence in Columbia.

Today, The Charmery continues to serve as a successful Columbia-based business and gathering place, showing how the right partnership and flexible financing can help Maryland brands grow beyond their original markets while strengthening Howard County’s local business community.

Vheda Health’s Growth Journey Leads to National Recognition

Congratulations to Vheda Health on being ranked #10 in Healthcare on Fast Company’s 2026 Most Innovative Companies list. 

We’re proud to have supported Vheda Health’s growth here in Howard County. The company began at the Maryland Innovation Center, where they built early momentum before graduating and continuing to scale. We later supported their expansion with growth financing. 

This is exactly how we help Howard County businesses grow, from early-stage support and workspace to financing that fuels expansion. Seeing companies like Vheda Health move from startup to nationally recognized innovator reflects the strength of our local ecosystem.

A Four-Day Experience Built for Growth-Minded CEOs

The CEO Accelerator is an intensive four-day experience designed for growth-minded business owners ready to work on their business—not just in it.

Through guided strategy sessions, hands-on exercises, and peer collaboration, participants will develop the mindset, systems, and tools needed to drive sustainable profitability, empower teams, and scale effectively.

Shape the Future of Workforce Development During National Apprenticeship Week

Register your business for the Apprenticeship Business Lunch with Experts on April 27 at the Howard Workforce Center. Celebrate National Apprenticeship Week (NAW), while connecting with industry leaders, gaining insights, and shaping the future of workforce development.

Get insider tips and fast-track your career with quick chats from pros in this fun apprenticeship speed mentoring session

Join on April 29 from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM at the Howard Workforce Center to celebrate National Apprenticeship Week 2026 This interactive speed mentoring event allows you to rotate through three mentoring apprenticeship sessions by industry and connect with employers and apprentices. Learn what employers look for, what qualifications matter, and how to prepare for apprenticeship opportunities.

Recent Highlights: What You Need to Know

• If you are age 50 or older and seeking employment opportunities, join us on Thursday, May 7, 2026, for the free Howard County Virtual 50+ Employment Expo. Learn More
  
• TEDCO Announces Dynamic Lunch Keynote Fireside Discussion at 2026 Entrepreneur Expo. Learn More
  
• The Maryland Workforce Association (MWA) is anchoring a new registered cybersecurity apprenticeship that builds on the state’s partnership with BCR Cyber. Learn More
• Institute for Women Entrepreneur Excellence Announces BRIDGE Program Cohort at University of Maryland, Eastern Shore. Learn More
• Celebrate National Pet Day at Howard County Event. Learn More