Business Appreciation Week Registration Closes in 5 Days

What would you tell Howard County about your experience doing business here?

Registration for Business Appreciation Week closes in just five days on Monday, August 31.

From September 28 through October 2, Ambassador teams will visit businesses across Howard County to hear directly about their growth, successes, challenges and needs.

Participating businesses receive an in-person visit, a Certificate of Appreciation and the opportunity to be featured through photos on our Flickr account and/or social media.

Business Appreciation Week is open to businesses of all industries and sizes, but space is limited. Please register for only one appointment per business.

The State of Howard County: Reflecting on Eight Years of Progress

Howard County remains one of the best places to live, work, play, grow, and thrive for all, which is a result of our relentless efforts to enhance our quality of life. On September 30th, County Executive Ball will deliver his final State of the County address at Howard Community College’s Smith Theatre. During the last eight years, we have led with vision, through uncertainty, and with boldness, conviction, and love. Join us to hear the current volume in the story of Howard County.

Candles by Candy Brings Entrepreneurship to the Next Generation

A Howard County entrepreneur is helping the next generation discover what it takes to build a business.

Candles by Candy recently introduced entrepreneurship to Camp Ignite, giving young participants hands-on exposure to the creativity and skills involved in running a business. The experience was recently featured by WBAL-TV.

Candles by Candy is also a LIFT Fund client, connecting this community impact to our work supporting local entrepreneurs with resources to help their businesses grow.

Investing in small businesses can create an impact that reaches well beyond the business itself.

National Black Business Month: Design Depictions Structural Engineering

This National Black Business Month, we're celebrating the businesses and entrepreneurs strengthening Howard County's economy. Based in Elkridge, Design Depictions Structural Engineering provides structural engineering services for commercial, institutional and residential projects, helping clients build safe, resilient and reliable structures.

The project pictured highlights that expertise on a national stage. Design Depictions contributed structural engineering expertise to the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C., serving as the owner's structural representative. Its work included structural peer reviews and the design of miscellaneous metals, including elements that became part of the museum's public experience.

We're proud to recognize businesses like Design Depictions Structural Engineering that bring specialized expertise to major projects while strengthening Howard County's business community.

Celebrate the End of Summer with Howard County's Business Community

Mark your calendars for the End of Summer Bash on Tuesday, September 8, at The Collective Encore!

This isn't just another networking event. It's a celebration of Howard County's vibrant business community. Join us for an evening of laughter, meaningful connections, and unforgettable memories as we bring together business leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals in a fun, relaxed atmosphere.

Enjoy delicious cuisine and refreshing cocktails crafted by the talented team at The Collective Encore while you reconnect with familiar faces, make new business connections, and celebrate the close of another incredible summer.

When Every Second Counts: Learn to Stop the Bleed

A life-threatening bleeding emergency can happen anywhere, at any time. In those critical first minutes before emergency responders arrive, the actions of bystanders can make the difference between life and death.

Join us for this Stop the Bleed Training, part of our Business Disaster Preparedness Series, and gain the confidence and practical skills to respond during a bleeding emergency. Through expert instruction and hands-on practice, participants will learn lifesaving bleeding control techniques and how to provide immediate care until professional medical help arrives.

Howard County Farm Feature: Rural Rhythm Farm

From locally raised beef and pork to pick-your-own strawberries, Rural Rhythm Farm has plenty growing on its 175-acre family-owned farm in Dayton. 

The farm raises hogs and cattle, with whole-animal purchases available for families and friends looking to stock their freezers. Each spring, visitors can also head to the farm for pick-your-own strawberries, typically available from May through early June.

Rural Rhythm Farm's reach even extends beyond Howard County. Since 2018, the farm has grown rye for Sagamore Spirit Distillery in Baltimore, meaning every sip of their rye includes a little piece of Howard County agriculture.

Recent Highlights: What You Need to Know

• On Wednesday, September 30 from 5:30 – 8:30 pm the Cybersecurity Association is hosting the 10th Anniversary Cybersecurity Awards. Learn More

• Howard County Government Seeks Applicants for Newly Formed Data Center Task Force. Learn More