Helping Howard County Businesses Compete for Government Contracts

More than 100 founders, entrepreneurs, and business leaders filled the room this week for GovCon Ready: Two Days to Build, Compete, and Win at the Maryland Innovation Center.

Over two days, attendees developed practical strategies for entering and growing in the government contracting market. From business development and competitive positioning to certifications, proposal strategy, and funding opportunities, participants gained the tools and connections needed to compete with confidence.

Thank you to everyone who joined us and to our partner, Hutch, for helping make this program a success. We look forward to seeing how these businesses put their new knowledge into action.

Celebrating Four Nationally Recognized Economic Development Programs

We’re proud to share that four Howard County Economic Development Authority programs earned 2026 National Association of Counties (NACo) Achievement Awards, contributing to Howard County Government's record-breaking 113 national awards. This marks the highest number of annual NACo awards earned by any Maryland county in history.

Our award-winning programs demonstrate how we create opportunities for businesses, entrepreneurs and innovators across Howard County:

🏆 Flex Line of Credit Program – Expands access to capital so small businesses can grow and succeed.

🏆 Cyber Howard Accelerator – Helps cybersecurity startups accelerate growth, build partnerships and bring new technologies to market.

🏆 The Market at Caplan's Retail Incubator – Supports local entrepreneurs as they launch and grow successful retail businesses.

🏆 MIC Global Program – Connects international companies with the resources, partnerships and support they need to establish and expand in Howard County.

The NACo Achievement Awards recognize innovative county programs that strengthen communities, improve services and deliver measurable results. These four awards reflect our commitment to helping businesses thrive, fostering innovation and creating lasting economic impact throughout Howard County.

Small Business Summit Strengthens Howard County's Business Community

This year's Small Business Summit brought entrepreneurs, small business owners, and community partners together for another day of learning, collaboration, and connection.

We designed the summit to give businesses at every stage practical tools, valuable resources, and opportunities to build relationships that support long-term growth. As our entrepreneurial ecosystem continues to grow, events like this help business owners discover new opportunities, strengthen their networks, and move their businesses forward.

Over the past eight years, we've expanded support for Howard County's business community by launching HoCo Higher and the Gateway Innovation Center, increasing access to capital through the LIFT Fund, Catalyst Fund, and FLEX Credit Line, growing local procurement opportunities, supporting apprenticeships, revitalizing the Route 1 Corridor, and opening The Market at Caplan's. Together, these initiatives continue to strengthen our local economy and create more opportunities for businesses to succeed.

Thank you to the Howard County Chamber, our sponsors, presenters, community partners, and every business owner who joined us. Your collaboration continues to strengthen Howard County's entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Congratulations to Columbia Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

on 20 years in Howard County

For two decades, Columbia Aesthetic Plastic Surgery has helped patients throughout the region with both cosmetic and reconstructive procedures while building a reputation for personalized care and surgical excellence. Led by board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Eric Chang, the practice has grown into a trusted destination for patients seeking expert care close to home.

We're proud to celebrate this milestone and the continued investment the practice has made in our community over the last 20 years.

HCEDA Extends Artist Call for Fourth Accelerator Exhibition

We have extended our artist call for the fourth curated exhibition at the HCEDA Accelerator.

The exhibition showcases local and regional artists while creating an inspiring environment for entrepreneurs, innovators, and visitors. We welcome submissions from artists working in a variety of mediums and encourages both emerging and established artists to apply.

Thank you to the artists who have already submitted their work and for their patience as we prepare this next exhibition.

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!

Growing Stronger: Triple Creek Farm Receives 2026 Enhancement Grant

Triple Creek Farm Properties has been awarded a 2026 Enhancement Grant to support barn and barnyard improvements, helping preserve and strengthen one of Howard County's agricultural properties.

Beyond agriculture, the farm also plays a key role in Howard County's sustainability efforts through the Live Green Howard County initiative. Its 8.6-megawatt solar installation generates approximately 13 million kWh of clean electricity annually, enough to help power more than half of County government operations.

By supporting working farms like Triple Creek, we're investing in the future of Howard County's agricultural economy while advancing sustainability and resilience.

Recent Highlights: What You Need to Know

• Attend Hutch Launch: Lab to Founder | A Bootcamp for Scientists & Researchers on July 29, 2026. Learn More
• Howard County Executive Ball Urgently Seeks Professional and Public Members for County Electrical and Plumbing Boards. Learn More
• A Star-Spangled Summer: Celebrate July 4th in Howard County, Maryland. Learn More
• Celebrate July in Howard County and fill your itinerary with a lineup of exciting activities and events. Learn More