Celebrating Progress Across the HoCo Higher Community

HoCo Higher alumni recently came together to reconnect, share updates, and celebrate their continued growth as entrepreneurs.

This flagship 10-week Accelerator equips founders with the tools, knowledge, and support to build and grow successful businesses. At the alumni event, participants exchanged insights, celebrated milestones, and strengthened the relationships that continue long after the program ends.

Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make it a great evening. We look forward to seeing what's next for our HoCo Higher alumni.

Ready to Compete? Build Your GovCon Strategy

Join us for GovCon Ready, a two-day intensive designed to help founders and business owners navigate the government contracting landscape with confidence.

Whether you're exploring your first contract opportunity or looking to strengthen your competitive position, this program provides practical strategies, expert guidance, and valuable connections to help you identify opportunities, build a pipeline, and grow your business.

In partnership with Hutch, GovCon Ready equips entrepreneurs with the tools, knowledge, and relationships needed to compete and win in the government marketplace.

From Ideas to Impact: Empowering the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs

Our Youth in Business Series is an engaging, 5-week initiative designed to inspire and equip young minds (ages 16-24) with the skills, mindset and confidence to become future entrepreneurs.

Through interactive workshops, panel discussions with experts and real-world business challenges, participants will explore the fundamentals of entrepreneurship—from ideation and business planning to marketing, budgeting, and pitching.

Whether you're dreaming of launching your own startup or just want to learn how to think like an entrepreneur, this series offers the tools and support to turn ideas into action.

Growing Opportunities for Local Producers

Through the Savage Community Farmers Market

Savage Community Farmers Market Inc. received a 2026 Agricultural Enhancement Grant to support the expansion and sustainability of the Savage Community Farmers Market.

The market connects residents with local farmers, food producers, and artisans while creating opportunities for small agricultural businesses to reach new customers. Grant funding will help strengthen market operations, increase community engagement, and support future growth.

By making locally grown and produced goods more accessible, the Savage Community Farmers Market continues to support local agriculture, small businesses, and a vibrant community gathering space in Howard County.

From Boardrooms to Podcasts: Spaces Built for Innovation

The Maryland Innovation Center offers flexible, professional spaces designed to help businesses, entrepreneurs, and organizations connect, collaborate, and grow.

Our rental options include:

• Meeting & Conference Rooms

• Training & Workshop Space

• Networking & Community Event Space

• Podcast Studio for recording professional audio content

• Convenient Columbia Location

Whether you're hosting a team meeting, recording your next podcast episode, leading a training session, or bringing your community together, the MIC has a space to fit your needs.

End Summer on a High Note at the End of Summer Bash

Mark your calendars for the HCEDA End of Summer Bash on September 08 at The Collective Encore.

This isn’t just another networking event – it’s a celebration! We’re bringing together the Howard County community for an evening of laughter, connections and unforgettable memories. Unwind and connect with 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 Collective Encore 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. Don’t miss out on an unforgettable celebration as we bid farewell to summer in style!

Recent Highlights: What You Need to Know

• Howard County Economic Development Authority Selects App Beacon to Power Community Engagement for Howard County Businesses and Entrepreneurs. Learn More

• TEDCO is bringing back the Entrepreneur Expo, taking place at the Hilton Baltimore Inner Harbor on Oct. 27, 2026. Learn More

• The Howard County Chamber of Commerce proudly welcomed a new class of Board of Directors. Learn More
• A Star-Spangled Summer: Celebrate July 4th in Howard County, Maryland. Learn More