Howard County Economic Development Authority

Weekly Data Dive: Investing in Howard County’s Veteran-Owned Businesses? ? During National Invest in Veterans Week, Howard County recognizes the vital contributions of veteran entrepreneurs who drive economic growth and strengthen the local business community. Veteran-owned businesses in the county have recently seen impressive growth, outpacing other firms in key economic areas. ? ?? Howard County Veteran Business Growth: ? Employment increased by 4%, demonstrating job creation and stability. ?? Annual payroll grew by 61%, reflecting strong business expansion. ?? Total revenue rose by 19%, highlighting the economic impact of veteran entrepreneurs. ? Supporting veteran-owned businesses in Howard County not only honors their service but also fuels local economic development. Investing in their success ensures they have the resources to thrive, innovate and continue contributing to the county’s prosperity. ? #HowardCounty #NationalInvestInVeteransWeek #VeteranOwned #InvestInVeterans #SmallBusinessGrowth #Entrepreneurship?

Making Improvements Along Route 1? Get a Tax Credit for Your Investment! If you're planning renovations or upgrades to your commercial or industrial property along Route 1, Howard County wants to support your efforts! The Route 1 Tax Credit Program provides real property tax credits for businesses making improvements that enhance the look, safety, and function of the corridor. Whether it’s a fresh new fa?ade, better parking, or landscaping enhancements, your investment benefits both your business and the Route 1 community. Take advantage of this opportunity and apply today! ?? Learn more: https://bit.ly/4hGGX9x #Route1TaxCredit #HowardCountyMD #InvestInYourBusiness #CommercialRevitalization #StrongerCommunities

Calling all pasta lovers! ?? Looking for the best spots to indulge in fresh, flavorful pasta right here in Howard County? From classic Italian favorites to creative house-made dishes, local restaurants are serving up some seriously delicious meals. The Baltimore Banner has rounded up the top pasta destinations in our community—whether you’re craving a comforting bowl of spaghetti, rich handmade ravioli or a perfect plate of fettuccine. Check out the full list and discover your next go-to spot for a pasta night out! https://bit.ly/43mDLeU #HowardCountyEats #PastaLovers #SupportLocal #FoodieFinds

Weekly Data Dive: Growth of Black-Owned Businesses in Howard County As we wrap up Black History Month, we’re highlighting the remarkable growth of Black-owned businesses in Howard County. For the first time in five years, the Census Bureau has released updated data on business ownership by race, and the numbers tell a powerful story. Between 2017 and 2022: ?? Black-owned businesses in Howard County grew by 24% ?? Revenue increased by 10% ?? Total payroll expanded by 25% This growth outpaced countywide averages across all three metrics, reflecting the strength, resilience and economic impact of Black entrepreneurs in our community. As the county’s business landscape continues to evolve, it’s critical to support diverse businesses, create equitable opportunities and foster inclusive economic development. #WeeklyDataDive #HowardCountyMD #BlackOwnedBusinesses #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #EconomicDevelopment

Discover how Olympic Indoor Sports transformed their vision into a state-of-the-art, 20,000-square-foot training facility in Columbia, MD, with the support of our Catalyst Fund. This premier center now offers athletes top-tier coaching and resources across multiple sports. Learn more about their journey and the impact of the Catalyst Fund in our latest blog post. ?? Read the full story here: https://lnkd.in/eC7e5B2x #SmallBusinessSuccess #AthleteDevelopment #HowardCounty #CatalystFund #SportsTraining

Are You Prepared for the Unexpected? ?? Floods can happen without warning—do you have a plan to protect your business and property? Join us on March 27 for our Business Disaster Preparedness Workshop, where you'll learn how to create actionable emergency plans and gain insights from local emergency management experts. Secure your spot today! Register now: https://bit.ly/41ndqfz #FloodPreparedness #DisasterReadiness #BusinessResilience #HowardCounty

?? Big Ideas Deserve Big Opportunities! ?? Are you ready to pitch your startup in front of investors and business leaders? The Lucky Pitch is your chance to refine your pitch, gain exposure and compete for $11,000 in prizes. Applications close March 2—apply now! https://bit.ly/49q9Djc Want to attend? Secure your spot: https://bit.ly/4gYhyqH #TheLuckyPitch #StartupSuccess #NetworkingEvent #PitchandMingle #Entrepreneurship

Howard County-based BrightWave is making waves in sustainable energy with a nearly $3 million contract to deploy photobioreactors in northeast England. The project, in partnership with Northumbrian Water Limited, will use algae cultivation to produce renewable aviation fuel, supporting global decarbonization efforts. BrightWave’s patented technology enables efficient indoor algae growth and is backed by collaborations with several Maryland businesses, including Total Plastics and Bauen Innovations. This international success highlights the strength of Maryland’s cleantech ecosystem and local innovation. ?? Read more: https://bit.ly/4i0sV2i #HowardCountyMD #BrightWave #SustainableEnergy #GreenTech #Innovation #MarylandBusiness #RenewableFuel

We invite you to participate in the upcoming Federal Workers Career Fair on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at Howard Community College, Burrill Galleria. Hosted by the Howard County Executive Calvin Ball in partnership with the Howard County Office of Workforce Development, this event is an opportunity to connect with skilled federal workers affected by recent closures, many of whom hold security clearances and possess specialized expertise. If your business has at least one open position, this is a great chance to find experienced candidates ready to contribute to your success. Also, please forward this if you know of a business that has open positions. ??Date: Tuesday, February 25, 2025 ? Set-up Time: 5:00 PM ?? Location: Howard Community College, Burrill Galleria ?? RSVP: https://lnkd.in/eXqBGVGi By joining us, you will gain access to highly qualified professionals while also supporting our local workforce. We encourage you to RSVP today to secure your spot. For questions or additional information, please contact Elexis Lawson at [email protected] or call 410-313-1072.?

?? Only 4 Days Left to Apply for Howard County’s Drought Relief Grants! ?? Howard County farmers impacted by the 2024 heat and drought—there’s still time to apply for financial assistance, but the deadline is February 27! Don’t miss out on this opportunity to recover losses and support your farm’s operations. Available grants: 1?? Primary Grant – Up to $5,000, awarded on a rolling basis 2?? Secondary Grant – Up to $25,000 for additional losses, based on available funding Farmers can apply for both grants, with a total maximum award of $30,000. Applications are reviewed by the Howard County Economic Development Authority, and documentation may be required. Time is running out! Submit your application by February 27 to [email protected]. Learn more here: https://bit.ly/4k2Bv2v #HowardCountyMD #DroughtRelief #FarmSupport #Agriculture #HCEDA #Grants #DeadlineApproaching