Maryland Economic Development Association (MEDA)

Disruptor Tech Talk - Kubernetes with Cocktails
2022-08-23 16:30 - 2022-09-22 18:30 (America/New_York) | MD
Event by partner of Regional Manufacturing Institute of Maryland (RMI)
Visit event website for more info and sign up:
https://nmtc.org/events/idisruptor-tech-talks?

Summer MACoCon News & Notes - 4 Weeks To Go!
2022-08-17 08:00 - 2022-08-20 17:00 | MD
4 Rs TO GET READY FOR SUMMER #MACoCon

1. Renew Your View of Maryland –
Plan to Visit the County Exhibits in Hall ABC
Don’t miss the county exhibits in Hall ABC, especially the Taste of MD Reception on Thursday from 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm…county exhibits will offer tasting samples from around the state – oysters, pickles, cheese, jams, charcuterie, cookies, cakes, beer, wine, coffee, AND MORE!
2. Reserve Your Discounted Hotel Room
View the discounted hotel rooms and BOOK NOW – some of our blocks are already full, expired, or are selling out quickly
3. Register for the Golf Tournament
MACo’s Golf Tournament is on Wednesday, August 17, at the Ocean City Golf Club. It’s a great opportunity to meet new people or reconnect with old friends – set your own foursome or let MACo assign you to a group based on your business interests. Register for the Golf Tournament online, view the rates, or contact Virginia White for more details.
4. Review our Showcase Sessions
MACo’s Solutions Showcase features case studies and real-world examples of solutions and supports on topics like public safety and emergency communications, ransomware attacks, wind energy, nuclear power, solar permitting, health insurance options, and MORE are all being covered in our 30-minute showcase sessions. View the schedule for more info!
Read More on MACo’s Blog

2022 MEDA Summer Conference
2022-07-27 09:00 - 12:15 | MD
2022 MEDA SUMMER CONFERENCE
“WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT“
July 27, 2022
9:00 am – 12:15 pm
Virtual
Workforce development is an essential aspect of economic development. Businesses can’t thrive, grow, and succeed without a trained, skilled, and educated workforce to employ. There are so many innovative ideas and programs being created and implemented in the workforce development sphere; our 2022 MEDA Summer Conference is about bringing together an engaging group of experts and professionals to share and discuss what’s new, what’s happening, and what’s next in workforce development.
Here are just a few of the topics our panelists and keynote speaker will discuss:

micro-credentialing and other “new” initiatives that help with a career path
strategies for talent recruitment and retention
how “paper ceiling” degree requirements hurt upward mobility for employees, and impact employers’ diversity efforts and business growth
how apprenticeship, upscaling, and rescaling efforts can keep a business relevant
how to leverage your current workforce development infrastructure to maximize economic impact
how industry is adapting and evaluating their recruitment requirements

Speakers and panelists will discuss and share, and be available for Q&As.
Click here to view the Agenda.
Click here to view the minutes from the April Business Meeting.
** Register Below **

Opening Remarks: James E. Rzepkowski, Assistant Secretary, Division of Workforce Development & Adult Learning, Maryland Department of Labor
Panel 1: “Future of Workforce Development: Building Local Workforce Development Systems that Produce Talent & Meet the Needs of Businesses”
Moderator: Amanda Wagner, Chief Operating Officer, Employ Prince George’s
Panelists:

Chris Guidry, Vice President, Council for Adult & Experiential Learning (CAEL)
Manoach (Manny) Lamarre, ETA, United States Department of Labor, Employment & Training Administration
Dr. Christopher Laney, EdD, CWDP, Senior Workforce Strategist, Lightcast

Maryland has 13 different local workforce development areas, with 13 different local workforce development boards, over 30 different job centers, and thousands of staff operating them, but each of Maryland’s local workforce development areas have a common group of core partners and elements that can help drive the success of local economies. This panel of local and national experts will examine the current state of local workforce systems, the future of Maryland and America’s workforce systems, and how economic development organizations can leverage their local workforce systems to maximize economic outcomes in their local economy.

Panel 2: “Advancing Workforce Preparation: Adaptive Strategies and Solutions to Current Skills Shortages”
Moderator: Ellen Flowers-Fields, Associate Vice President for Continuing Education and Workforce Development, College of Southern Maryland
Panelists:

Nicholas D’Antonio, Workforce Development Strategist, Lockheed Martin
Becky Klein-Collins, Vice President of Impact, Council for Adult & Experiential Learning (CAEL)
Tim Tatsui, Vice President for workforce development career & technical education, National Education Foundation
Kelly Koermer, Vice President of Continuing Education & Training, Carroll Community College

Panelists will engage in an interactive discussion on effective strategies that are accelerating credential completion. Learn how the blueprints for Prior Learning Assessment (PLA), stackable credentialing, micro-credentialing, and digital badging supports this.

Keynote Speaker: Bridgette Gray, Chief Customer Officer, Opportunity@Work
Bridgette will be speaking on “STARs: The Strategy to Find The Skilled and Diverse Talent You Need in Today’s Workforce”
Employers today say there’s a talent shortage – but what if they’re just not looking in the right place? There are more than 70+ million workers Skilled Through Alternative Routes (STARs), rather than through a bachelor’s degree, who are being overlooked today. Nearly half of these STARs have the skills to thrive in in-demand roles, but they’re overlooked and held back by the paper ceiling – the invisible barrier that comes at every turn for workers without a bachelor’s degree – and it’s hurting their upward mobility and employers’ diversity efforts. Learn about the size, demographics, and skills of the STARs talent pool, ways to find them, and how your organization can start supporting STARs.

Keynote Speaker

Bridgette Gray

Bridgette Gray is a strategist, operator, and organization builder. She exemplifies leading-edge best practices in inclusive talent development and onramps to opportunity, and currently leads the Customer Success & Delivery team as Opportunity@Work scales the hiring of workers who are Skilled Through Alternative Routes (STARs) nationwide.
Gray joins Opportunity@Work after seven-and-a-half years at Per Scholas, where she was their first Chief Impact Officer, responsible for managing all training operations, and organizational impact for Per Scholas’ 17 campuses. Bridgette joined Per Scholas in 2014 as the startup Managing Director for the National Capital Region where she was instrumental in leading Per Scholas’ cybersecurity training efforts, including a regional cybersecurity task force, which led to sizable investments from Symantec and Capital One. In 2015, Bridgette joined the Executive Leadership team as the Executive Vice President of national program operations, managing all training locations.
In 2019, Bridgette became the Chief Impact Officer responsible for managing org-wide training operations & delivery, impact, and strategic programmatic growth. Under Bridgette’s leadership, Per Scholas expanded its gold-standard evidenced-based model from five to 17 campuses, from 800 to 3,000 learners trained with a strategic plan to expand to 25 campuses and 10,000 learners trained by 2025; and built a national team to support the growing campuses. Additionally, and in response to COVID-19, under Bridgette’s leadership, Per Scholas expanded its traditional training model to not only in-person but also remote offerings.
Prior to Per Scholas, Bridgette held several senior and executive leadership roles at Year Up, the Points of Light Foundation, and the Corporation for National and Community Service. Bridgette has spent the last 20+ years helping diverse talent access and benefit from training and employment opportunities, and helping businesses to acquire this talent, and influencing DEI as central to their bottom line.
Bridgette can often be found adding her thought partnership and leadership to collective impact work with the Markle Foundation’s Rework America Alliance, JFF’s Thrive @Work Innovation Council, Racial Equity Learning Community @PolicyLink, America Forward WFD & Economic Justice Task Force, as a LEAP Ambassador, and as a Founding Member of Chief DC. Bridgette served on the Montgomery County Maryland Workforce Board from (2014-2019).

Speakers

Ellen Flowers-Fields

Ellen Flowers-Fields serves as Associate Vice President for Continuing Education and
Workforce Development at the College of Southern Maryland. She is responsible for the
oversight of all areas of the non-credit economic and community development programming in
Southern Maryland, including the Center for Trades and Energy Training, MCET, the Workforce
Center, the SBDC, the Non-Profit Institute, the Transportation Center and adult basic education
at all CSM campuses.
Ellen has over 25 years of progressive professional experience in the field of workforce
development and human capital management. Her diverse background includes the acquisition,
project management and implementation of various federal, state and local programs that
address community economic development needs. Throughout her career she has acquired
and managed nearly $100 million dollars in support of various economic and community
development initiatives. Funding acquisition from USDOL, USDA, US Dept of Commerce,
Veterans Administration, Federal Highway Administration, and numerous state and local
agencies, in NY, GA and MD.
Prior to serving in her current role, Ellen served Regional Director of the Small Business
Development Center at CSM. Ellen served as Acting Assistant Secretary, and Deputy Assistant
Secretary of the Division of Workforce Development & Adult Learning at the Maryland
Department of Labor, Licensing & Regulation from 2011 – 2014; Regional Director of Economic
Development at the Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland from 2006 – 2011; and Executive
Director for Southern Maryland Works from 2000 – 2006. In this role, Ellen led the efforts to
establish the region’s first One Stop workforce service delivery system and Workforce
Investment Board under the Federal Workforce Investment Act.
Ellen holds a Bachelors of Business Administration from Pace University in New York;
Certification from the International Business Innovation Association in Business Incubation
Management; and is credentialed as a Global Career Development Facilitator from the Center
for Credentialing and Education. She is a 2009 graduate of the inaugural Class of Leadership
Southern Maryland, an entrepreneur, and a self-published author.
Affiliations include Executive Board member Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland;
Member of the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals and the Maryland
Economic Development Association; Past Board Member Maryland Broadband Coordination
Board; Past board chair, Bethel House Inc.; Immediate past Board chair, Community
Foundation of Southern Maryland; Alumni of the Inaugural class of Leadership Southern
Maryland 2009.
Recognitions include recipient of 2017 Excellence Award from the National League for
Innovation in Community Colleges; 2018 recipient of CEO award from the Southern Maryland
Minority Chamber of Commerce; Calvert County Commissioner’s Business owner appreciation
recognition 2008 & 2014; Recipient of 2008 Woman of the Year award from Calvert County
Concerned Black Women; Recipient of 2005 Charles County Minority Business of the Year;
Nominations for the 2006 Leadership Maryland class and 2006 Maryland’s Top 100 Women.

Becky Klein-Collins

Becky Klein-Collins is the vice president for research and impact at the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL). In this role, she directs CAEL’s research agenda, oversees research initiatives, develops strategic partnerships, and advocates for policies and strategies to support the adult learner. Becky’s work has focused on prior learning assessment, competency-based education, career pathways leading to economic mobility, public policy change, and system-transforming practices in workforce development. In 2018, she published Never Too Late: The Adult Student’s Guide to College (2018). Becky has a bachelor’s degree from Grinnell College and master’s degrees from Indiana University and the University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy.

Dr. Tim Tatsui

Dr. Tim Tatsui is Vice President of Workforce Development, CTE and Higher Education at the National Education Foundation. Tim is a lifelong educator and began his career in education as a classroom teacher and Teach for America corps member in the Compton Unified School District. He served in Compton, CA as a classroom educator and district trainer and curriculum coach, and he advised teacher candidates and directed clinical practicum graduate studies at California State University, Dominguez Hills, Pepperdine University and Loyola Marymount University. Tim moved to the Los Angeles Unified School District where he advised and managed policy and program development and impact evaluation in the Offices of the Executive Officer and Chief Instructional Officer.
In 2007, Tim joined Pearson and led consulting and implementation services with K12 District and State partnerships and Higher Education enterprise accounts in North America. He held a number of executive roles at Pearson, launching and leading evaluation and research teams in the US and Canada and founding and heading the company’s Learning Analytics Business as Vice President of Data and Analytics at Pearson North America.
Tim is a Board Member at the UCLA School of Education and is an advisory Board Member at Jazz Hands for Autism and Edily Learning. Tim earned a B.A. from Baylor University, teaching credentials from California State University, Los Angeles, a Doctor of Education at UCLA, and an M.B.A. from the Anderson School of Management at UCLA. Tim enjoys reading, spending time with his family, and training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

Nicholas D’Antonio

Nicholas (Nick) D’Antonio currently serves as a Senior Workforce Development Strategist at Lockheed Martin managing the corporation’s relationships with community and technical colleges. In his capacity, Nick also manages federal and state training incentives that support the company’s workforce and training needs. Previously, Nick held roles at Amazon, Koch Industries, the United States Department of Labor, and the National Association of Manufacturers. Nick is a Talent of Tomorrow Fellow with Jobs For the Future, he serves on the advisory committee for Northern Virginia Community College’s Engineering Technology Division, and is the Co-Chair of the Lockheed Martin Enterprise Operations PRIDE resource group. Nick is also a member of the Burlington County New Jersey Workforce Investment Board.
Nick is a graduate of Washington State University’s Carson College of Business (Master of Business Administration) and of American University (Bachelor in Business Administration). He is now pursuing his doctorate from North Carolina State University in Community College Leadership and Administration. Nick lives in Asheville, North Carolina with his partner (Emily) and two cats (Wonk and Buna).

Manny Lamarre

Senior Advisor
U.S. DOL, Employment and Training Administration (ETA)
Manny’s career has been focused on the intersection of workforce development and education policy,
practice, and research that leads to economic mobility for youth and adults across several states. His
background includes developing and managing career pathway strategies and policies, registered
apprenticeships, public and private sector engagement, postsecondary pathways, federal and state
workforce policies such as WIOA and Perkins.
Manny’s direct experience designing and implementing workforce policies at the state level informs his
approach. He is the former founding Executive Director of the Nevada Governor’s Office of Workforce
Innovation and served as the Governor’s Designee on the Governor’s Workforce Development Board
guiding the Board’s strategy and WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) implementation. In
addition, he led the implementation of the state’s workforce vision and key policies from 2016-2019
while building a new state agency and overseeing the state’s Registered Apprenticeship system. Before
joining ETA, Manny led and supported research and technical assistance projects on workforce and
economic mobility at WestEd, a national nonpartisan research organization. Earlier in his career, Manny
was a classroom teacher and associate at a community foundation working in several states.
Manny holds a B.A. in Political Science with honors from Wittenberg University, and a Master’s in
Education Policy and Management from the Harvard Graduate School of Education, where he was the
recipient of the Class Marshal Award for leadership and service to the Harvard community. He has
authored several workforce reports and presented both nationally and internationally.

James Rzepkowski

James E. Rzepkowski is the Assistant Secretary for the Division of Workforce Development and Adult Learning at the Maryland Department of Labor. Within the Division are five Offices that implement the mission of the Division: Workforce Development, Adult Education & Literacy Services, Correctional Education, Fiscal Administration, and Workforce Information & Performance. From January 2019 to August 2019, he served as Acting Secretary of the Maryland Department of Labor.
Prior to his appointment by the Hogan-Rutherford Administration in February 2015, he served 8 years as the Corporate Director of Workforce Development at Constellation Energy Nuclear Group, LLC (CENG), headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland. He developed and implemented the company’s mission critical workforce development initiative leveraging strategic partnerships with educational institutions in multiple states to provide a pipeline of skilled and qualified workers to meet the growing needs of the energy industry. Mr. Rzepkowski represented CENG on numerous national industry association boards focused on adult learning and technical training as well as state and local workforce development organizations.
Concurrent to his employment at CENG, Mr. Rzepkowski was appointed to the Anne Arundel County Board of Appeals in January 2007 to a four-year term by unanimous vote of the Anne Arundel County Council. The quasi-judicial Board that renders final decisions on appeals related to zoning, variances, licenses, permits, personnel, and executive, administrative, and judicatory orders in Anne Arundel County, Maryland.
Prior to joining CENG in February of 2007, he served 12 years in Maryland State Government in both Executive and Legislative capacities – three years as an Assistant Secretary within Maryland’s Department of Business and Economic Development and nine years as an elected member of the Maryland House of Delegates representing the 32nd Legislative District in Anne Arundel County.
He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Government and Politics, with Phi Beta Kappa Honors, from the University of Maryland – College Park.

Amanda Wagner

Amanda Wagner is the Chief Operating Officer at Employ Prince George’s. In her current role Amanda
leads the internal operations of the $18 million nonprofit and serves as the organizations principal staff
member tasked with overseeing the Administrative Agent duties for the Prince George’s County
Workforce Development Board. Prior to becoming the Chief Operating Officer at Employ Prince
George’s, Amanda served as the Director, Strategic Planning & Development, leading the organization in
pursuing millions of dollars in workforce development funding to support the delivery of workforce
development services to job seekers and businesses.
Amanda is a decorated workforce development professional with certifications as a Global Career
Development Facilitator, Certified Workforce Development Professional, and a Certified Business
Services Consultant. Prior to joining Employ Prince George’s Amanda worked for two national workforce
development organizations, Henkels & McCoy and Eckerd Connects, leading teams across the United
States as One Stop Operators, WIOA Title I Adult, Dislocated Worker and Youth Career Service
providers.
Amanda has been a member of the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals for
over a decade. Along with a decorated history in the Workforce Development Industry, Amanda holds a
Master of Science (M.S.) focused on Youth Development from Clemson University and Bachelor of Arts
(B.A.) in Communications from Southern New Hampshire University. When not building the America’s
workforce, Amanda enjoys being a wife, mother to her two children, volunteer in the Charleston Area,
being a triathlete, competing in marathons and triathlons across the United States.
Amanda is a decorated workforce development professional with certifications as a Global Career Development Facilitator, Certified Workforce Development Professional and a Certified Business Services Consultant. Prior to joining Employ Prince George’s Amanda worked for two national workforce development organizations, Henkels & McCoy and Eckerd Connects, leading teams across the United States as One Stop Operators, WIOA Title I Adult, Dislocated Worker and Youth Career Service providers. Amanda has been a member of the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals for over a decade.

2022 MEDA Chesapeake Basic Economic Development Course
2022-07-25 09:00 - 2022-07-28 17:00 | VIRTUAL
2022 MEDA Chesapeake Basic Economic Development Course
July 25 – July 28 – Virtual
Course Daily Schedule
** Scroll down to register **
Whether you’re new to the world of Economic Development or you’d like to get in-depth with a refresher, the Chesapeake Basic Economic Development Course is your ticket to the fundamental concepts, strategies, and tools needed to be successful in today’s complex economic environment. This essential course is designed to prepare participants for the challenges they face in the practice of developing communities, and assist them in gaining capacity-building skills, resources, and networks to accelerate economic development.
New This Year – An All-Virtual Course!
In previous years, our 4-day Basic Course was held in Baltimore, which required travel expenses, time away from home, and extra planning and organization. With our all-virtual course this year, you can learn it all from the comfort of your own home, making it the perfect accessible, efficient and cost-saving way to take in the fundamentals of economic development. We have excellent instructors lined up to teach, and you’ll get to meet and network with other participants… all virtually!
This course will be offered online (via Zoom). Please note that the time zone is Eastern Time (ET).
What You’ll Learn:

Grow your skills and understanding of economic development foundational elements
Best practices in economic and community development
Managing an economic development program
Financing economic development projects and using incentives
Explore new methods and programs to promote job growth and investment
Business retention and expansion
Marketing and business attraction
Discuss emerging trends and factors that shape local and regional economies
Ethics in economic development
Gain detailed knowledge of successful initiatives
Strategic planning
Small business and entrepreneurship
Tools for planning your economy and how to use them.
Researching your prospects and building a community data profile.
Real estate development and reuse
Neighborhood revitalization
Managing real estate inventory.
Develop a valuable network of fellow economic development professionals and resources
Learn from outstanding experts and practitioners in the field

Who Should Take the Course?
The Basic Economic Development Course is designed for community leaders and stakeholders who participate in the process of community and economic development at local, regional, state and federal levels. Typical attendees include:

Economic development practitioners
Business leaders
Community volunteers
Public utility personnel
Government agency staff
Real estate professionals
Chambers of commerce members
Business development professionals
Cooperative extension personnel
Planning and development agencies
Bankers and financial institution professionals
Community development organization professionals
Municipal, town and county government elected and appointed officials
Others interested in facilitating job creation and capital investment in their community, region or state

Your First Step Toward Certification
For those seeking national certification, the Economic Development Basic Course is the first requirement in the process of becoming a Certified Economic Developer (CEcD). This Chesapeake Basic Economic Development Course qualifies as a professional development training requirement needed to sit for the CEcD exam. CEcD certification through the IEDC is a national recognition that denotes a mastery of principal skills in economic development, professional attainment, and a commitment to personal and professional growth.
Lofton Scholarships for MEDA Members
Members of MEDA can apply for a Lofton Scholarship to cover the tuition for the Chesapeake Basic Economic Development Course in full. MEDA’s Lofton Scholarship exists to support the growth of professional skills and knowledge by economic development practitioners in Maryland.
Apply for the Lofton Scholarship before you register for the Chesapeake Basic Economic Development Course. Upon acceptance, you will be given a discount code to use with your registration. Last day to apply for the Lofton Scholarship for the Basic Course is July 17. NOTE: Deadline has passed.
Details
The 2022 MEDA Chesapeake Basic Economic Development Course will be held July 25 – July 28 (virtually) from approximately 9am to 5pm Eastern Time.
Tuition is:

$590 for MEDA members (Lofton Scholarship available for full tuition to members)
$765 for non-members (tuition includes MEDA membership for a year)

Register today!
** Scroll down to register **

Instructors

Jamie Williams, CEcD

Jamie Williams, CEcD, is the Director of Kent County Economic & Tourism Development. Williams began Economic Development work with Kent County seven years ago, and achieved her Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) certification in October of 2019. Previous work included 20 years at a Millwork Distributor where she filled many positions, office manager for a local land surveyor, and administrative work in the County Commissioners Office. Her previous experience working for a large employer and a small business served her well in working with the business community.
Williams is a member of the Maryland Economic Development Association and serves as MEDA Professional Development Co-Chair.

Sandy Dubay, CEcD

Sandy Dubay, CEcD is the CEO and Founder of PPR Strategies, as well as a publicist, marketing consultant, public speaker, spokesperson, and public relations team leader.
Sandy is passionate about helping communities in the mid-Atlantic region grow and diversify their economies and job opportunities for residents. She brings her expertise in communications, social media, marketing, economic development, and tourism to help clients create & implement customized communications plans right for them.
Sandy is a graduate of Shepherd University with a Bachelor of Science in economics and business administration. She previously served as a Research Specialist at the Jefferson County Development Authority in Charles Town, WV and most recently as a Business Development Specialist in the Frederick County Office of Economic Development in Frederick, MD.

Lara Fritts, CEcD

Lara Fritts is a certified economic developer with over 25 years of experience in economic development, management, and technology. Her experience spans city and regional levels in both the public and private sectors.
Most recently Lara served as the President and CEO of the Greater Richmond Partnership (GRP), the national and international sales team which serves as the lead regional economic development organization. GRP is a public/private, non-profit that represents the city of Richmond and counties of Chesterfield, Hanover and Henrico in the 1.4 million population of the Richmond MSA in Virginia.
Prior to her role with GRP, Lara was the Director of Salt Lake City’s Department of Economic Development (SLC DED) where she oversaw three divisions – Business Development, the Redevelopment Agency of Salt Lake City and the Salt Lake City Arts Council. Under her leadership, the Department worked to bring more than 30 new companies to Salt Lake City including UPS, Amazon, Stadler Rail, and others totaling over 9,000 jobs and nearly a billion dollars in capital investment.
Before relocating to Salt Lake City, Lara managed several economic development organizations in the DC/Maryland/Virginia region over the last three decades including President and CEO of the Annapolis Economic Development Corporation; Executive Director of the Southeast Fairfax Development Corporation (SFDC); Executive Director of the Greater Rockville Partnership; and the President and CEO of the Washington, D.C., Technology Council.
Known for her strengths in strategic planning, collaboration, marketing, and leadership, Lara currently serves on the board of the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). Lara holds a Master’s in Urban Studies from the University of Wisconsin at Milwaukee, and a Bachelor’s degree in Regional Analysis from the University of Wisconsin at Green Bay.
Lara was the recipient of Consultant Connect’s Top 50 Economic Developers in 2019 and was named a Fellow Member of the International Economic Development Council in 2020 which honors economic development professionals for attaining unusual stature in their field and closely-related disciplines.

Heather Gramm, CEcD
MEDA Past President
Heather Gramm joined the Maryland Department of Commerce as Senior Director of Strategic Industries and Entrepreneurship in June 2019. In this role, she oversees the development and implementation of the state’s efforts to grow the strategic industries of biohealth and life sciences, cybersecurity and aerospace, manufacturing, energy and agriculture. In addition, she oversees Commerce’s strategic initiatives for entrepreneurship, small business, and workforce development.
Prior to this role, she served as Deputy Director for the Frederick County Office of Economic Development overseeing the county’s business development efforts, including business attraction, retention and expansion, small and minority business development strategies, as well as industry-sector development in the county’s targeted sectors.
Heather has more than 17 years of experience in municipal, county and state economic development in a variety of roles including business development, community development and downtown revitalization. She earned a B.A. in Business Administration from Hood College and the Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) certification through IEDC. She serves as President of the Maryland Economic Development Association (MEDA) Board of Directors.

Dan Taylor

Dan Taylor is the Managing Director of Business and Neighborhood Development at the Baltimore Development Corporation (BDC). Since joining BDC in 2013 he has managed the disposition and redevelopment process for more than two dozen city-owned properties, and has worked on real estate and economic development projects in commercial areas throughout Baltimore. Dan has led BDC’s small business & neighborhood response to the COVID-19 crisis and has been BDC’s lead on the development of Harbor Point, Downtown’s Westside, and redevelopment of the Inner Harbor. He manages a 20-person team that assists businesses and developers throughout the City.
Dan holds a Masters of Community Planning Degree from the University of Maryland, and a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Michigan, where he was a dual-major in Economics and Political Science. Dan has lived in Baltimore City since 2007 and currently resides in the Hampden neighborhood.

Wynne Briscoe

Wynne is a graduate of University of Maryland with a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice, Minor in Business and Concentration in Business Law. Wynne has over 30 years of entrepreneurship and business ownership experience to include retail, professional services, technology and manufacturing. Since 2001, Wynne has successfully consulted and advised thousands of entrepreneurs, businesses and non-profit organizations. She is known for her creativity and innovation in the development of new businesses by offering in-depth experience and assisting them from concept to profitability to exit strategy. Wynne has a passion to work with Young Entrepreneurs. She enjoys coaching and mentoring youth towards years of success, while helping them realize business ownership and self-employment as a viable career option. Wynne is establishing a young entrepreneurship mentoring program and summer camp for youth to start and thrive as successful business owners.
The United States Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship requested Wynne testify in person on Capitol Hill on Thursday, March 12, 2020 at a hearing for “The Coronavirus and America’s Small Business Supply Chain.” Her testimony before the United States Senate was broadcasted live via C-SPAN as a Manufacturing Subject Matter Expert representing the Maryland Small Business Development Center. Her proposal solution was adapted into the 2020 CARES Act Legislation. Maryland Department of Commerce and MD Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MD MEP) utilized Wynne’s US Senate proposed solution to develop a Maryland Made Directory for manufactures/suppliers/buyers to provide a platform for maintaining a supply chain within the State of Maryland.
In July of 2020, Wynne was appointed Regional Director for the Maryland Small Business Development Center – Southern Maryland Region.
Since 2016 she has worked with the U.S. Small Business Administration, Maryland Small Business Development Center – Southern Maryland Regional Office as the Business, Management, Technology & Manufacturing Consultant and consults select industries Statewide. She also enjoys assisting the Retail and Resta urant industries as they often have the highest failure rates among business types and need additional support or guidance to ensure success. Wynne is an AASBC Certified Business Consultant and a Certified Technology Business Consultant from the Institute for Technology Commercialization at University of Houston. As the SBDC Technology Liaison for the Southern Maryland Region, she has assisted in taking technological concepts through the technical and intellectual commercialization process to mass market. As the Maryland SBDC Statewide Manufacturing Consultant, she has assisted startup entrepreneurs and Fortune 500 companies.
During the America’s Small Business Development National Center Conference in Long Beach, California – Wynne was awarded the top honor of Maryland State Star recognizing her as the top business consultant in Maryland for 2019.
The County Commissioners of St. Mary’s County presented Wynne with the 2019 Small Business Proclamation which acknowledges the contributions made by small businesses to the economic growth and quality of life locally, in the State of Maryland in the United States.
Wynne was presented the “Power of One” Award in 2018 from the NAACP St. Mary’s County Branch “For Excellence in Entrepreneurship, Small Business Ownership and Development” with St. Mary’s County and the surrounding region.
Wynne was awarded the 2017 Maryland Governor’s Citation in Recognizing Small, Minority and Women-Owned Businesses.
“Ms. Briscoe’s enthusiasm and drive for small business growth is infectious. Always ready to lend a hand and genuinely deserving of the St. Mary’s County Department of Economic Development’s nomination for the Governor’s Citation recognizing small, minority and women-owned businesses.” Robin Finnacom, Former Deputy Director, St. Mary’s County Department of Economic Development.
Wynne received the Southern Maryland Chapter of Top Ladies of Distinction “Igniting Innovative Inspirations” Award during their 2017 Women’s Empowerment Day event where she was a keynote speaker.
Wynne founded Forever Eden Organics in 2010 as Maryland’s second Certified Organic Bodycare Manufacture with a commercial production facility located in California, MD. Creating and overseeing the entire production process of over 55 exclusive organic products which are enjoyed by customers globally. She is also proficient in the health and wellness industry and has assisted many naturopathic and holistic entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses.
In 2007 Wynne became a Licensed Maryland Real Estate Agent with Century 21 New Millennium. She has assisted many first-time homebuyers by helping them realize their American Dream is possible and handholding them through the entire home ownership process. Wynne also enjoys commercial real estate and has helped many small businesses with architectural designs, site selection locations, commercial leases, purchases, construction build outs, layouts and merchandising.
Wynne is highly engaged in the Southern Maryland community and the Maryland Small Business Eco-System.
Professionally, she is the former Chairwoman of the St. Mary’s County Government Economic Development Commission (County Commissioners Appointed), Chairwoman of the St. Mary’s County NAACP Economic Development Committee, Southern Maryland Minority Chamber of Commerce Regional Vice President, St. Mary’s County Chamber of Commerce Ambassador, Official Brand Ambassador for the Potomac Jazz and Seafood Festival, Southern Maryland Liaison for the Maryland Million Women Mentor & STEM Initiative, Ambassador for the Dream Queen Association, Mentor for Gals Lead Teen Mentoring Progr am, Facilitator of Dave Ramsey Financial Peace University, College of Southern Maryland Business Course Instructor, Maryland Small Business Development Center Diversity and Inclusion Task Force Member, Member of the University of Maryland Alumni Association, Planning Team Member for the Southern Maryland Innovates, Workshop Facilitator and Mentor for the SOMD STEM-ING Teen Girl Program, Mentor and Program Facilitator for the St. Mary’s County Public Schools Future Business Leaders of America Program and College of Southern Maryland Technology Council Board Member.
Personally, her passion is growing her relationship with God, always willing to help others, and assisting the local homeless shelters and food banks. In addition to serving her local community, Wynne loves the beach, traveling, modeling, baseball, reading and spending time with her large family and loving friends!

Amy Seitz

Amy Seitz has nearly twenty years of professional experience in both private and public sector enterprises. She was formerly the Director of Community Access & Partnership for the Division of Neighborhood Revitalization within the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). Ms. Seitz was responsible for maintaining and cultivating relationships statewide with key stakeholders in community and economic development. In her role, she was responsible for strengthening and expanding the marketplace for the Division’s programmatic services and technical assistance including oversight of tax credit and grant programs totaling $5 million. Additionally, Ms. Seitz also served as the Statewide Coordinator for the Main Street Maryland program and State Leader for Keep Maryland Beautiful.
Prior to joining DHCD, Ms. Seitz worked as the Director of Development and Communications for Preservation Maryland and worked as the Executive Director for Hampden Village Main Street in Baltimore City. Ms. Seitz’s wide-ranging knowledge in strategic planning, public relations, marketing and economic development also includes work at the Howard County Economic Development Authority.
Ms. Seitz received her Bachelor’s degree in Historic Preservation from the University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg, VA. Her professional development includes the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s Preservation Leadership certification and the Maryland Association of Nonprofits Standards of Excellence certification for nonprofit management.

Latrice Lewis

Latrice Lewis is a Business and Employment Consultant and ReEntry Project Manager with Frederick County Workforce Services a proud partner of The American Job Center Network! She has over 15 years in Business Development and Career & Workforce Development. She has a unique perspective on Workforce and Economic Development having spent time in both private and public sector positions, as well as the Frederick County Public School system.
Latrice’s primary focus is partnering with the Frederick County (FC) business community to assist with their workforce development needs: recruitment, staff development/training and LMI. She works with small-to-very large organizations in the FC community. She also works closely with an under-served population in our community of Justice-Involved citizens.
Latrice has had opportunities to share her expertise with such organizations as the United Way of Fredrick County, The Local Management Board (Office of Children & Families), Hood College Leadership Program, Mountain Manor Treatment Center, and other local schools and colleges – she has earned a reputation for being a “Trusted Business Advisor” in the Frederick County community.
Latrice is passionate about serving the Frederick County community and ensuring both businesses and citizens are aware of all the resources available to maximize their success.

Richard Griffin, AICP, CEcD
MEDA Vice President
Mr. Griffin has served as Director of Economic Development for the City of Frederick, Maryland since 2002. An urban planner and economic developer with 25 years of experience, Richard has worked at the city, county, and regional level in Maryland, Virginia, South Carolina and Washington.
During his tenure in Frederick he has overseen several million in public and private revitalization including the design and development of award-winning Carroll Creek Park and million’s in renovations and new infill development delivering jobs tax base in downtown.
His previous assignments include serving as the executive director of the Downtown Frederick Partnership, Program Manager of Comprehensive Planning for Loudoun County, Virginia and Senior Regional Planner for the Appalachian Council of Governments , and on the district staff of US Representative James McClure Clarke (11th NC)..
Mr. Griffin holds degrees from Western Carolina University and Clemson University. He serves on the Board for the Downtown Frederick Partnership, the Frederick Innovative Technology Center, Inc. and others.

Sharon Disque, CEcD

Sharon Disque is the Economic Development Manager for the City of Gaithersburg, Maryland. She has more than 30 years of experience in economic development, including business park development, real estate sales and leasing, corporate site selection, community strategic planning, marketing and market analysis, and downtown redevelopment. Before joining the City of Gaithersburg, Sharon ran a community development corporation, provided real estate consulting services for clients in Maryland and West Virginia, and was Regional Director of Industrial Development for CSX Transportation. She began her career with the Hagerstown-Washington County Economic Development Commission. Sharon earned a Master’s in Real Estate from Johns Hopkins University and a Bachelor’s in Economics from the University of Virginia. She is a Certified Economic Developer (CEcD).

Stephen Primosch

In his current role as Vice President of Financial Services for the Anne Arundel Economic
Development Corporation, Steve is responsible for managing the, Arundel Community
Reinvestment Fund, Anne Arundel Incentive Fund, the Next Stage Fund and the VOLT Fund.
Steve is responsible for managing financial services staff and developing the protocols and
processes used to manage the flow of applications for all of the corporation’s lending programs,
from origination and underwriting to the closing and servicing of loans. Steve oversees a
portfolio of approximately 100 small business loans totaling approximately $7 million.
Steve has more than a decade of finance and lending experience. Prior to arriving at AAEDC,
he served as Vice President of Private Business Banking for BankAnnapolis. Previous to that,
he was at the Harbor Bank of Maryland for four years as Vice President and Commercial
Lending Officer.
Steve holds an MBA and a bachelors degree in marketing, both from Frostburg State University.
Steve has served on the Board of several non-profit organizations including the Maryland
Economic Development Association Foundation, Maryland Economic Development Association,
Arundel Child Care Connections, and the Maryland Commercial Lenders Lending Association.

Laura Fritts, CEcD

Chief Operating Officer, Community Redevelopment — Lara Fritts is a certified economic developer with over 25 years of experience in economic development, management, and technology. Her experience spans city and regional levels in both the public and private sectors assisting companies to execute their location strategies or development projects while helping communities achieve their goals. She has an expertise in building economic development organizations for elected officials having started six public-private partnerships/departments.
Lara has an extensive economic development background, having held positions in Wisconsin, Maryland, Washington, DC, Virginia and Utah. As the Director of Salt Lake City’s Department of Economic Development (SLC DED) she was the architect of developing an economic development department where she oversaw three divisions – Business Development, the Redevelopment Agency of Salt Lake City and the Salt Lake City Arts Council. In three years, she worked to bring more than 30 new companies to Salt Lake City including UPS, Amazon, Stadler Rail, and others totaling over 9,000 jobs and nearly a billion dollars in capital investment. With her team she helped to deploy over $44 million into an affordable housing strategy creating over 3500 units throughout the city.
Known as a community vitality champion she has strengths in economic recovery, affordable housing, strategic planning, tax credits and incentives, and organizational development. She is a sought-after speaker and consultant on real estate, community revitalization, and economic development finance. Lara gives back to the economic development profession by co-moderating Clubhouse discussions on economic development topics. Lara has a Master’s in Urban Studies from the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee, and a Bachelor’s degree in Regional Analysis from the University of Wisconsin – Green Bay.
Lara is the recipient of Consultant Connect’s Top 50 Economic Developers from 2019 and was named a Fellow Member of the International Economic Development Council in 2020 which honors economic development professionals for attaining unusual stature in their field and closely-related disciplines.

Trish Heidenreich, CEcD
MEDA Professional Development Co-Chair
Trish Heidenreich has served as the Economic Development Director for the Town of Bel Air since 2006. Prior to joining the Town, Trish worked in real estate administration and held a 25-year career in the entertainment industry, specializing in concert production logistics, business development and marketing.
Trish sits on the Board of Directors for the Maryland Economic Development Association (MEDA) and is Co-Chair of MEDA’s Professional Development Committee. Trish holds a Certification in Economic Development (CEcD) from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) in Washington and is a member of the Board of Directors. In addition to her certification, she holds a Master of Business Administration from Johns Hopkins University and a BA in Communications and Television Production from Concordia University in Montreal, Canada.

2022 MEDA Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) Program Webinar
2022-07-13 11:00 - 12:00 | MD
$198M For Maryland Small Businesses
As an economic development professional, you are working with Maryland small businesses and supporting Maryland’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. In this webinar, you will learn how you can assist your businesses in applying for funding through Maryland’s State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI).
The State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) was established by Congress in 2010 to provide loans and investments to underserved small businesses and received a $10 billion allocation as part of the American Rescue Plan Act. The funds from SSBCI will be used to augment existing business lending programs to support businesses with limited opportunities for growth whether due to the pandemic or historic disinvestment. Maryland’s statewide SSBCI initiatives will target communities and areas with a high concentration of small, micro, and Socially and Economically Disadvantaged Individual (SEDI) businesses to support ongoing state investments in underserved communities.
Frank Dickson, the Director of Strategic Business Initiatives at the Maryland Department of Housing & Community Development, is joined by Randy Croxton, Senior Vice President at Meridian Management Group, and Jack Miner, Chief Investment Officer at TEDCO, to discuss the initiative and eligibility to apply.

THIS IS A MEDA MEMBER-ONLY EVENT. IF YOU’D LIKE TO JOIN MEDA, PLEASE VISIT https://www.medamd.com/membership/

2022 MEDA Primer for Economic Development in Maryland
2022-06-22 09:00 - 15:00 | City Garage, 101 W Dickman St, Baltimore, MD, United States
Join MEDA for a training that has been created to provide participants an introduction and overview of how Maryland practices economic development. Course attendees will quickly develop a network of resources and connections, all while building camaraderie among participants to further Maryland’s economic development team.
This course is designed for those who are new to economic development in Maryland, in addition to strategic partners in collaborative industries. Find out how economic development transforms lives by creating opportunities, inspiring innovation, and enriching communities. Together we can work to make a brighter, more prosperous future for the state of Maryland!
Agenda (link to printable copy)
View the speaker slides from our Ignite panelists— click here.
9:00 – 9:05 Welcome and Moderator
Richard Griffin, CEcD, AICP Vice President, Maryland Economic Development Association
9:15 – 9:45 Fundamentals of Economic Development – Q&A
An overview of the basics of economic development and an opportunity to have questions answered.
David Iannucci, President & CEO, Prince George’s Economic Development Corporation
9:45 -10:00 Break
10:00 – 11:15 Maryland’s Economy, Key Industries and Strategic Advantages – click here to view these slides from this presentation
This session provides an overview of Maryland’s economy, its competitive strengths and weaknesses, and key economic assets. We’ll take a closer look at Maryland’s different regions and key industry sectors, how Maryland competes with other states and discuss Maryland’s value proposition for new business investment.
Panelists:
Lori Ratzburg, Senior Director, Regional Growth & Retention, Maryland Department of Commerce
Roger Venezia, CEcD, Director of Operations and Special Projects, Maryland Department of Commerce
Sharon Disque, CEcD, Economic Development Manager, City of Gaithersburg
11:15 – 11:30 Break
11:30 – 12:30 State Agencies Panel
Hear from State Agency leaders as they discuss how they interact with economic development.
Moderator:
Len Parrish, Director, Community & Economic Development, Harford County
Panelists:
Rob McCord, Secretary, Maryland Department of Planning
James Rzepkowski, Assistant Secretary, Maryland Department of Labor
Heather Gramm, CEcD, Assistant Secretary, Maryland Department of Commerce
Earl Lewis, Deputy Secretary, Maryland Department of Transportation
Owen McEvoy, Deputy Secretary, Maryland Department of Housing & Community Development
12:30 – 1:00 Lunch
1:00 – 1:15 Ignite Presentations: City/County

Richard Griffin, CEcD, Director, City of Frederick Department of Economic Development
Heather Tinelli, Director, Economic & Tourism Development, Queen Anne’s County
1:15 – 1:45 Ignite Presentations

Randy Baynes, Senior Account Executive, Baltimore Gas & Electric
Frank Dickson, Director, Strategic Business Initiatives, Maryland Department of Housing & Community Development
Julie Woepke, Executive Director, Maryland Economic Development Commission
Tom Sadowski, Executive Director, MEDCO
Tammi Thomas, Chief Marketing & Communications Officer, TEDCO
Stanley Tucker, President, Meridian Management Group, Inc.
1:45 – 2:00 Break
2:00 – 3:00 How Does Maryland “Do” Economic Development?
Our moderator will provide an overview of how state and local representatives work together, and break down the scenarios for how specialized programs depend on the jurisdiction, the company, and the overall needs of the community.
Presenters will provide a discussion of varying approaches for business startups, growth, retention and attraction, from the perspective of the state and rural, suburban and urban communities. The panel will address significant elements of what goes into the business development process depending on the jurisdiction, the project, and the requirements of the company. Speakers will share case studies to show the key elements of a project.
Moderator:
Susan Grimes, Director of Business Development, Washington County
Panelists:

Dave Ryan, Executive Director, Salisbury-Wicomico Economic Development
Kim Clark, Executive Vice President, Baltimore Development Corporation
Jayson Knott, Senior Director, Office of Business Development, Maryland Department of Commerce
Amy Seitz, Director, Community Access and Partnership, Maryland Department of Housing & Community Development
Jessica Reynolds, CEcD, Senior Director, Office of International Investment & Trade, Maryland Department of Commerce
3:00 Wrap-up / Tour of City Garage

Speakers

Richard Griffin, AICP, CEcD
MEDA Vice President
Mr. Griffin has served as Director of Economic Development for the City of Frederick, Maryland since 2002. An urban planner and economic developer with 25 years of experience, Richard has worked at the city, county, and regional level in Maryland, Virginia, South Carolina and Washington.
During his tenure in Frederick he has overseen several million in public and private revitalization including the design and development of award-winning Carroll Creek Park and million’s in renovations and new infill development delivering jobs tax base in downtown.
His previous assignments include serving as the executive director of the Downtown Frederick Partnership, Program Manager of Comprehensive Planning for Loudoun County, Virginia and Senior Regional Planner for the Appalachian Council of Governments , and on the district staff of US Representative James McClure Clarke (11th NC)..
Mr. Griffin holds degrees from Western Carolina University and Clemson University. He serves on the Board for the Downtown Frederick Partnership, the Frederick Innovative Technology Center, Inc. and others.

David Iannucci

David S. Iannucci has served in the Administration of Prince George’s County Executive Rushern Baker as the Assistant Deputy Chief Administrative Officer for Economic Development since 2011. In that position, he directly oversees the activities of Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation, FSC First, and the Conference and Visitors Bureau. Mr. Iannucci plays a prominent role on the County’s key projects such as the pursuit of the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation headquarters, a new Regional Medical Center, and the Purple Line, working to retain and support the County’s existing business community, and oversight of the County Executive’s $50 million Economic Development Incentive Fund. In his 40 year career, Mr. Iannucci has served in many positions within state and local government. His previous positions include Secretary of the Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development, Executive Director of the Baltimore County Department of Economic Development, and under former Maryland Governor William Donald Schaefer, Chief Legislative Officer. Mr. Iannucci is a 1979 graduate of the University of Maryland College Park. David S. Iannucci is also a former President of the Maryland Economic Development Association and is a member of the MEDA Hall of Fame. A long-time resident of Prince George’s County, he resides in Bowie with his wife and daughter.

Roger Venezia, CEcD

Roger Venezia has been an economic developer for 40 years. He serves as Director of Operations & Special Projects for the Division of Business and Industry Sector Development at the Maryland Department of Commerce. In this capacity he serves as chief administrative officer of the agency’s largest division. He has been with Commerce since 2000.
Mr. Venezia has held marketing, research, and managerial positions for three different county economic development offices in Maryland. He served as Director of the Cecil County Office of Economic Development during which time he led the effort to develop the county’s first economic development strategic plan. He also served as Research Manager for PECO Energy Company of Philadelphia, one of the country’s largest electric utilities.
Mr. Venezia earned his Certified Economic Developer designation in 1988. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with a second major in Economics from the University of Delaware.

Sharon Disque, CEcD

Sharon Disque is the Economic Development Manager for the City of Gaithersburg, Maryland. She has more than 30 years of experience in economic development, including business park development, real estate sales and leasing, corporate site selection, community strategic planning, marketing and market analysis, and downtown redevelopment. Before joining the City of Gaithersburg, Sharon ran a community development corporation, provided real estate consulting services for clients in Maryland and West Virginia, and was Regional Director of Industrial Development for CSX Transportation. She began her career with the Hagerstown-Washington County Economic Development Commission. Sharon earned a Master’s in Real Estate from Johns Hopkins University and a Bachelor’s in Economics from the University of Virginia. She is a Certified Economic Developer (CEcD).

Len Parrish

Director, Community & Economic Development, Harford County

Robert McCord

Secretary Robert S. McCord provides comprehensive leadership of the Department’s mission, objectives, and initiatives. With the Maryland Department of Planning since 2015, he has served as Assistant Secretary of Operations and Deputy Secretary. McCord comes to Planning with private sector and public experience. He worked in private practice in Bel Air, Maryland before joining the Harford County Law Department in 1998 as Deputy County Attorney, then County Attorney from 2004-2014. He has seen issues from Western Maryland to the Eastern Shore as a trustee on the Local Government Insurance Trust. He is an Adjunct Professor, University of Baltimore School of Law, 1990-present. He holds a degree from Loyola University Maryland, B.A. (Business Administration and Philosophy), 1983; M.B.A. (Marketing), 1985; University of Baltimore School of Law, J.D. cum laude, 1989.

James Rzepkowski

James E. Rzepkowski is the Assistant Secretary for the Division of Workforce Development and Adult Learning at the Maryland Department of Labor. Within the Division are five Offices that implement the mission of the Division: Workforce Development, Adult Education & Literacy Services, Correctional Education, Fiscal Administration, and Workforce Information & Performance. From January 2019 to August 2019, he served as Acting Secretary of the Maryland Department of Labor.
Prior to his appointment by the Hogan-Rutherford Administration in February 2015, he served 8 years as the Corporate Director of Workforce Development at Constellation Energy Nuclear Group, LLC (CENG), headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland. He developed and implemented the company’s mission critical workforce development initiative leveraging strategic partnerships with educational institutions in multiple states to provide a pipeline of skilled and qualified workers to meet the growing needs of the energy industry. Mr. Rzepkowski represented CENG on numerous national industry association boards focused on adult learning and technical training as well as state and local workforce development organizations.
Concurrent to his employment at CENG, Mr. Rzepkowski was appointed to the Anne Arundel County Board of Appeals in January 2007 to a four-year term by unanimous vote of the Anne Arundel County Council. The quasi-judicial Board that renders final decisions on appeals related to zoning, variances, licenses, permits, personnel, and executive, administrative, and judicatory orders in Anne Arundel County, Maryland.
Prior to joining CENG in February of 2007, he served 12 years in Maryland State Government in both Executive and Legislative capacities – three years as an Assistant Secretary within Maryland’s Department of Business and Economic Development and nine years as an elected member of the Maryland House of Delegates representing the 32nd Legislative District in Anne Arundel County.
He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Government and Politics, with Phi Beta Kappa Honors, from the University of Maryland – College Park.

Heather Gramm, CEcD
MEDA Past President
Heather Gramm joined the Maryland Department of Commerce as Senior Director of Strategic Industries and Entrepreneurship in June 2019. In this role, she oversees the development and implementation of the state’s efforts to grow the strategic industries of biohealth and life sciences, cybersecurity and aerospace, manufacturing, energy and agriculture. In addition, she oversees Commerce’s strategic initiatives for entrepreneurship, small business, and workforce development.
Prior to this role, she served as Deputy Director for the Frederick County Office of Economic Development overseeing the county’s business development efforts, including business attraction, retention and expansion, small and minority business development strategies, as well as industry-sector development in the county’s targeted sectors.
Heather has more than 17 years of experience in municipal, county and state economic development in a variety of roles including business development, community development and downtown revitalization. She earned a B.A. in Business Administration from Hood College and the Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) certification through IEDC. She serves as President of the Maryland Economic Development Association (MEDA) Board of Directors.

Earl Lewis

R. Earl Lewis, Jr., was appointed on January 20, 2016, to serve as Deputy Secretary of Policy, Planning, and Enterprise Services for the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT), which is comprised of The Secretary’s Office, State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA), Maryland Transit Administration (MDOT MTA), Motor Vehicle Administration (MDOT MVA), Maryland Port Administration (MDOT MPA), Maryland Aviation Administration (MDOT MAA) and the Maryland Transportation Authority.
As Deputy Secretary, Mr. Lewis oversees the administration of twelve offices in the Secretary’s office. He also chairs MDOT’s Public Private Partnerships Steering Committee, reporting directly to the Secretary on the oversight of P3 initiatives by MDOT’s transportation business units. In 2017, he was certified as a P3 Foundations Professional by APMG International, a global accreditation agency. Mr. Lewis represents the Secretary as Chair of the State of Maryland’s Zero Emission Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Council, The National Capital Region Transportation Planning Board and often represents the Secretary on several other groups such as the Maryland Commission on Climate Change (MCCC) and the Commerce, International Affairs, and Smart Growth Sub-Cabinet as well as the Maryland Economic Development Corporation (MEDCO.)
In 2018, Mr. Lewis received the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials National Corporate Executive of the Year Award, as well as the Baltimore Chapter of WTS Honorable Ray LaHood Man of the Year Award for being supportive of careers of women in transportation.
Mr. Lewis has a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Virginia and an MBA and a second Master’s degree in Information Systems from the University of Maryland’s Smith School of Business.

Owen McEvoy

Owen McEvoy serves as Deputy Secretary of the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD).
Prior to his current role, McEvoy served as DHCD’s Director of Public Information where he managed a team of marketing, communications, outreach, business development and customer service professionals. During his tenure, he directed a series of business development and marketing campaigns that have enabled the Maryland Mortgage Program to achieve more than $1 billion in mortgage reservations.
Before his time in Maryland state government, he served as Director of Media Relations and Public Information Officer for former Anne Arundel County Executive Steve Schuh, where he worked extensively on land use and development issues. He also served previously as a Deputy Communications Director for Speechwriting for former Pennsylvania Governor Tom Corbett, and as an aide to former Maryland Governor Bob Ehrlich.
A graduate of Villanova University School of Law and Georgetown University, he resides in Anne Arundel County with his wife.

Randy Baynes

Randy Baynes Sr. Economic Development Specialist Economic Development, BGE
Randy Baynes is a Sr. Economic Development Specialist in Governmental and External Affairs at BGE. He is responsible for ensuring a positive customer experience for our State and Local Economic Development Officials. Randy works closely with the administration of BGE’s Smart Energy Economic Development Incentive. The SEED incentive provides relief to construction and distribution expenses to qualifying new and expanding businesses in Central Maryland. Through this initiative Randy works with BGE’s New Business Design and Engineering teams to ensure a seamless customer experience. Additionally, Randy works with our state and local partners on the attraction, retention and expansion of businesses in BGE’s service territory. Randy is an active member of the Utility Economic Development Association (UEDA), a national organization of utility professionals that work to advance economic growth. Randy has been with BGE over 17 years and formerly held roles in Commercial and Industrial Engineering and Large Customer Services.
CIVIC INVOLVEMENT // For over ten years Randy was a coach and director of Loch Raven Recreational boys’ and girls’ soccer and lacrosse programs. Randy was formerly the Head Women’s Lacrosse Coach for the Institute of Notre Dame, an all-girls high school in downtown Baltimore. Randy is currently a member of the Board of Directors for the Archbishop Curley Alumni Association.
EDUCATION // Randy holds a bachelor’s degree (B.A.) in Geography from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County and has taken additional coursework in Environmental Studies from Johns Hopkins University.
FAMILY // Randy is a lifelong Baltimorean, now resides in Baltimore County. He lives in Parkville with his wife Stephanie and three children, Jack 22, Ella 20 and Carter 17.

Frank Dickson

Frank is leading DHCD’s efforts in promoting and supporting investment into Opportunity Zones throughout Maryland. Frank will work with investors, businesses, and local leaders to capitalize on the Opportunity Zone tax incentives. Previously, Frank led the Maryland Venture Fund for several years and led the $100M raise for InvestMaryland in 2012.

Julie Woepke

Since its reorganization in 2015, Ms. Woepke has served as the Executive Director of the 25 voting and four (4) non-voting member Maryland Economic Development Commission. The Commission establishes economic development policy in the State and oversees the Department of Commerce’s efforts to support the creation, attraction and retention of businesses and jobs. Ms. Woepke coordinated the development of a Strategic Plan and works with the Department to oversee implementation, performance evaluation and tracking of the plan. She also coordinates the work of Subcommittees.
From its inception in 2015, Ms. Woepke has coordinated the Commerce Subcabinet, an 11 member State Agency Subcabinet with six (6) Workgroups – Customer Service; Job Creators; Small Business; Workforce Development; Regional Resources; and Sustainable Materials Management Maryland (SM3). The Subcabinet advises the Governor on proposals to enhance the State’s business climate, gathers information necessary to promotes its goals, collaborates to facilitate and expedite critical economic development projects; and provides additional assistance that may further the goals of the state and enhance business climate.
As part of senior leadership within the Department, she coordinates all Boards, Commissions, Councils and Authorities.
Prior to 2015, Ms. Woepke served as an Assistant Director in the Office of Military and Federal Affairs serving as the liaison to Fort George G. Meade, Walter Reed Military Medical Center, Joint Base Andrews, Naval Support Activity Annapolis and Army Research Lab Adelphia. Ms. Woepke was instrumental in the successful execution of the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) decision, which resulted in over 19,000 direct jobs and nearly 20,000 indirect and induced jobs to the State.
Ms. Woepke also served in the Department as a Business Development Representative in the Capital Region assisting businesses of all industry sectors and size – from start-ups to large corporations.
Prior to joining the State of Maryland, Julie held Economic Development positions for El Cerrito, CA, Belmont, CA, Bowie, MD, Cape Coral, FL and Deerfield, IL.
Native of Chicago, Julie and her husband live in Annapolis and have two adult children.

J. Thomas Sadowski
2008 – 2009
Thomas Sadowski is MEDCO’s fourth executive director, beginning his tenure in August 2021. Appointed by the MEDCO Board of Directors and approved by the Governor, Mr. Sadowski directs a staff composed of ten administrative, finance and development specialists whose responsibilities are to assist with financing, project development, accounting, and management of MEDCO’s projects. In his role as Executive Director, Tom is dedicated to furthering MEDCO’s important mission to help advance Maryland’s economic development interests and facilitate economic growth that benefits citizens and communities across Maryland. Tom brings to MEDCO a depth and breadth of experience, a passion for the economic well-being of Maryland, and enthusiasm for a vibrant economy that is sustainable and competitive.
Tom came to MEDCO with more than thirty years of economic development experience and has held leadership positions at local, regional, and state levels. He has worked across all industry sectors, including aerospace, autonomous systems, cybersecurity, quantum computing, robotics, bio-health, clean energy, advanced manufacturing, agriculture, and education-technology.
Prior to working at MEDCO, Tom spent 5 years as vice chancellor for economic development at the University System of Maryland (USM), a major player in the success of Maryland’s economy. As the USM’s first vice chancellor for economic development, Tom focused on leveraging the talent, resources, and programming at USM’s twelve institutions and three regional centers to support the state’s economic development efforts and help grow strategic industries. He served as the USM’s senior representative on university-industry-government collaborations statewide. Tom was the system’s primary liaison to the state in support of recruiting companies and retaining and growing existing companies. Within the USM, his role focused on venture creation, tech commercialization, industry and government research partnerships, and workforce development. He also launched the USM’s $10 million venture Maryland Momentum Fund.
Prior to joining USM, Tom served as president and CEO of the Economic Alliance of Greater Baltimore, where he focused on growing and attracting companies to the region and used federal and state grant dollars to create programs supporting innovation, commercialization, and entrepreneurship. He also served as director of the Harford County Office of Economic Development and as business development director for the Baltimore County Department of Economic Development.
Tom is very active in the community, serving as the chair of the board for Junior Achievement of Central Maryland, on the Board of Visitors for the University of Maryland Technology Institute (MTech), and on the boards of the Baltimore Metropolitan Council, Cyber Association of Maryland, Maryland Information Security Institute (MISI), Maryland Marketing Partnership, Maryland Technology Council, UMBC Training Centers, the University of Maryland Medical System/Upper Chesapeake Health Foundation, and the UMB Baltimore Fund Advisory Board.
He has received several honors, including the 2016 “Alumni of the Year, Distinguished Service” award from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County and the 2014 “William Donald Schaefer Industrialist of the Year” award from the Baltimore Museum of Industry. He was also recognized by The Daily Record as a “Most Admired CEO” in 2015 and 2013 and an “Influential Marylander” in 2011.
A lifelong resident of Maryland, Sadowski earned his bachelor’s degree in political science, with a certificate in public administration and policy, from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) in 1989. He is married with five children.

Tammi Thomas
MEDA Vice President
Tammi Thomas serves as Chief Marketing & Communications Officer at the Maryland Technology Development Corporation (TEDCO). In this role, she is responsible for the development of TEDCO’s marketing, public relations and communications strategy and will contribute to TEDCO’s organizational strategic operations.
Ms. Thomas, a seasoned administrator, has extensive managerial experience in the higher education sector and possesses a record of success in jump-starting initiatives and helping them flourish. With more than 25 years of experience in the marketing and public relations fields, she has served as advisor and consultant to senior-level executives in industry, government and academia; developed and executed comprehensive strategic, marketing and communications plans; coordinated and managed internal and external partnerships and initiatives; and facilitated large scale panels, workshops, and discussions involving a variety of executive and managerial-level individuals in the technology, government, and higher education communities.
Previously, Ms. Thomas served as chief of staff to the president at Bowie State University. She provided strategic leadership and support for the president’s initiatives and priorities. Prior to this position, she served as vice president of strategic management for Data Solutions & Technology Incorporated (DST). The company, headquartered in Lanham, Md., provides a full spectrum of professional services in information technology, logistics and operations, management, and scientific and technology support. Before DST, Ms. Thomas served as the director of University Relations and Marketing at Bowie State University for more than three years. She was also director of Business Development and Marketing at the University of Maryland Baltimore County’s Research Park and Business Incubator, where she served for eight years. She has taught marketing and communications courses at Bowie State and the University of Baltimore as an adjunct professor.
Ms. Thomas earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing from Alabama State University and a Master of Business Administration degree in International Marketing from the University of Baltimore. She is a contributor to A Practical Guide to Business Incubator Marketing (NBIA Publications, 2007) and a guest editor of Bowie State University’s Undergraduate Journal of Research and Writing Across the Curriculum (Bowie State University, 2013).

Stanley Tucker

President of Meridian Management Group, Inc.

Dave Ryan
1999 – 2000
David Ryan is a veteran economic development professional and the Executive Director of the Salisbury-Wicomico Economic Development Corporation, a public – private partnership charged with strengthening the economy of Salisbury, Wicomico County and region.
Ryan shares a passion for promoting his hometown of Salisbury and as he implements meaningful programs and initiatives to succeed in the economy of today and tomorrow. During his tenure, he has helped create a cluster of telecommunications manufacturers and a growing life science sector, assisted in the formation and operation of a regional revolving loan fund, established the county’s first small business incubator, planned with the private sector a new industrial park and formed the county’s first business expansion fund for startup, existing and new businesses. He’s brokered more than $35 million in direct lending accounting for more than 6,000 jobs and more than $150 million in capital investment.
Ryan consistently serves on statewide task forces and committees, is a Past President of the Maryland Economic Development Association and is active on local advisory boards associated with Salisbury University, Wor-Wic Community College, and the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. In addition, he is a member of the Salisbury Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, the Greater Salisbury Committee, the Delmarva Water Transport Committee and the Wicomico County Airport Commission.
From a community perspective, Ryan is active in Asbury United Methodist Church, serving as a past Treasurer and as an Executive Committee member to the Asbury Child Development Center, a pre-school ministry of the Church. He is a past board member of the United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore, the Salisbury YMCA and a Past President of Lower Shore Enterprises, a non-profit corporation connecting people with disabilities to job opportunities.
Ryan received his Bachelors of Science Degree in Marketing and Economics from Old Dominion University and his MBA from Salisbury University. He is a former tennis professional, the longest actively serving Economic Development Director for a major jurisdiction in the State of Maryland and is a member of the Maryland Economic Development Association Hall of Fame.

Kimberly Clark

Kim Clark is the Executive Vice President of the City of Baltimore Development Corporation (BDC). In her capacity as EVP she oversees neighborhood development, business development, capital budgeting, Small Business Resource Center, Emerging Technology Centers, Baltimore Main Streets program, marketing and research and analytics.
Among her achievements at BDC, Kim helped structure public private partnership financing for several major redevelopment projects, including several Tax Increment Financing (TIF) projects; the redevelopment of Belvedere Square, all parcels at Inner Harbor East, Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOTS) for several major developments, including the Westside and the several grocery store projects. She was instrumental in retaining several businesses of all sizes and assisted smaller businesses with expansions and in the development of the Horseshoe Casino Baltimore.
Kim is the Vice President of the Maryland Economic Development Association, Chair for Mission Advancement of the Urban Land Institute Baltimore Council, Second Vice President and Committee Chair of the Star Spangled Flag House, Board member of the Emerging Technology Centers, Leadership Maryland and the Baltimore Office of Promotion and the Arts and is a member of the International Economic Development Council. Kim graduated Leadership MD in 2009 and is a Greater Baltimore Committee Leadership Class of 2007 graduate.
Kim Clark is the Executive Vice President of the City of Baltimore Development Corporation (BDC). In her capacity as EVP she oversees neighborhood development, downtown development, capital budgeting, commercial revitalization, and urban design and planning.
Among her achievements at BDC, Kim helped structure public private partnership financing for several major redevelopment projects, including several Tax Increment Financing (TIF) projects; the redevelopment of Belvedere Square, all parcels at Inner Harbor East, Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOTS) for several major developments, including the Westside and the several grocery store projects. She was instrumental in retaining several businesses of all sizes and assisted smaller businesses with expansions and in the development of the Horseshoe Casino Baltimore.
Kim is the Secretary of the Maryland Economic Development Association, Treasurer of the Urban Land Institute Baltimore Council, Board member and Committee Chair of the Star Spangled Flag House, Board member of the Emerging Technology Centers, Leadership Maryland and the Baltimore Office of Promotion and the Arts and is a member of the International Economic Development Council. Kim graduated Leadership MD in 2009 and is a Greater Baltimore Committee Leadership Class of 2007 graduate.

Jayson Knott

Jayson Knott is Senior Director of the Office of Business Development at the Maryland Department of Commerce. He leads teams responsible for attracting new businesses to Maryland, growing existing Maryland businesses, and providing assistance to Maryland small businesses. Knott began his tenure with the Department in 1998, first working in publications and advertising, and then moving into business development in 2000. Prior to the Maryland Department of Commerce, he spent nine years coordinating publications for the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. Knott received his BFA from Rochester Institute of Technology in 1987, and has completed numerous continuing education courses with IEDC. A Westminster native, Knott lives in Towson with his wife and two sons.

Amy Seitz

Amy Seitz has nearly twenty years of professional experience in both private and public sector enterprises. She was formerly the Director of Community Access & Partnership for the Division of Neighborhood Revitalization within the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). Ms. Seitz was responsible for maintaining and cultivating relationships statewide with key stakeholders in community and economic development. In her role, she was responsible for strengthening and expanding the marketplace for the Division’s programmatic services and technical assistance including oversight of tax credit and grant programs totaling $5 million. Additionally, Ms. Seitz also served as the Statewide Coordinator for the Main Street Maryland program and State Leader for Keep Maryland Beautiful.
Prior to joining DHCD, Ms. Seitz worked as the Director of Development and Communications for Preservation Maryland and worked as the Executive Director for Hampden Village Main Street in Baltimore City. Ms. Seitz’s wide-ranging knowledge in strategic planning, public relations, marketing and economic development also includes work at the Howard County Economic Development Authority.
Ms. Seitz received her Bachelor’s degree in Historic Preservation from the University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg, VA. Her professional development includes the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s Preservation Leadership certification and the Maryland Association of Nonprofits Standards of Excellence certification for nonprofit management.

Jessica Reynolds, CEcD

Jessica Reynolds is an international trade and investment specialist serving as Senior Director for the Office of International Investment and Trade at the Maryland Department of Commerce since August 2019. She previously served as a regional manager in this office, covering South Asia, Middle East, Africa, and Europe. Prior to joining Commerce, Mrs. Reynolds worked as a consultant for an economic development and planning firm, and as a Senior Manager and consultant in the international economic development field, working on US Government, World Bank, and other donor projects. She started her international career as an intern at the World Trade Center Institute in Baltimore.
Mrs. Reynolds holds a Master’s Degree from the University of Maryland, College Park, and a Bachelor’s Degree from Loyola University Maryland. She holds professional memberships in the International Economic Development Council and the Maryland Economic Development Association, and in March 2021,earned her CEcD certification as a certified economic developer.

Parking:

Parking at City Garage is located outside the main entrance.
Thanks to our Sponsors for the Primer:
City Garage, Scheer Partners, and South Duvall Commercial Real Estate Investments.

2022 C&O Canal Tour
2022-06-08 11:00 - 14:00 | C&O Canal – Cushwa Basin Visitor Center, 205 W. Potomac St, Williamsport, MD, 21795, United States
** EXCLUSIVE TO MEDA AND LEADERSHIP MARYLAND MEMBERS ONLY **

Come join MEDA and Leadership Maryland for an exclusive Members Only C&O Canal Tour. We’ll be touring the C&O Canal’s Cushwa Basin with its working aqueduct and electric boat rides, and take a walk in downtown Williamsport.
Registration is limited to MEDA and Leadership Maryland Members only, so sign up soon!
Located in the town of Williamsport, the C&O Canal is a historic treasure for Maryland. The Canal has been operating for almost 100 years and in 1971 was established as the C&O Canal National Historical Park. A few of the highlights of this area include two historic structures: the last standing railroad lift bridge in the country, and the Bollman Bridge, one of the first iron bridges ever built in the U.S.
Join us to see the sights!
The tour is open to MEDA and Leadership Maryland members only.
Note: Registration is limited, so please sign up early.
Info:

June 8, 2022 11am-2pm, Williamsport, MD
Cost: $25.00 (includes lunch)
Casual dress and comfortable walking shoes are suggested
Address for parking: 142 W Potomac St, Williamsport, MD 21795 for parking
Register below

Schedule:
11:00

Gather in the C&O Canal National Historic Park’s new HQ facility. Welcome by Donnie Stotlmyer, Williamsport Town Administrator, and Mainstreet Manager, Kathryn Gratton.
Speakers: Dan Spedden (President and CEO of the Washington County Convention and Visitor Center) and members of Port 44, the all-female real estate investment group transforming the streetscape.
Speaker John Noel (Deputy Superintendent of the C&O Canal NHP) will present an overview of the significant investment made in the Cushwa Basin and the extraordinary partnership that made it happen. Other collaborators will be on hand to answer questions.

12:30

Walk the short distance to the Cushwa Basin to visit the C&O Canal interpretive center and enjoy a boxed lunch from Williamport’s own Desert Moon Cafe.
Electric boat rides with an interpretive guide will be offered to traverse the only watered-aqueduct on the C&O Canal.

2:00

Optional walking tour of Williamsport’s Main Street area led by Kathryn Gratton, Main Street Manager, to see the projects already in motion.

Speakers for the Canal Tour:

Dan Spedden

Originally from Baltimore County Maryland, Dan Spedden is a graduate of the University of
Maine’s Natural Resource Management program. Dan is the retired State Park Superintendent
for the South Mountain Recreation Area, a cluster of four State Parks and a State Battlefield on
the border of Frederick and Washington Counties. Dan was a law enforcement ranger who
retired at the rank of Captain in October 2013. Dan is currently the President of the
Hagerstown/Washington County Convention and Visitors Bureau, a 501 C6 corporation with a
mission to improve the economy of the community through the promotion and development of
travel and tourism. He has been appointed to the Governor’s State Tourism Development
Board and the Maryland Heritage Area Authority Board of Directors. Dan resides in Hagerstown
with his wife Janette.

Brenda Paul

Port44 Co-Founder and Chief Financial Officer

Jesse Burgoon

Port44 Co-Founder and Chief Operations Officer

Lettie Wilkes

Port44 Co-Founder and Chief Marketing and Communications Officer

Selena Wilkes

Port44 Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer

Susie Miller

Port44 Co-Founder and Chief Operations Officer

John Noel

C&O Canal Superintendent

Special thanks to our sponsor: Washington County Convention & Visitors Bureau

Watch our video to get learn more about the importance of the canal and the projects that have enhanced its economic development.

Maryland Word Class Consortia Hosts Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Program
2022-06-06 | MD
Maryland Word Class Consortia’s “Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Program”
June 6, 2022

The Maryland World Class Consortia (MWCC) is pleased to bring you the Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification in partnership with the Dr. Mikel J. Harry Six Sigma Management Institute (SSMI).
The Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Program of Study is intended to develop technical leaders that are capable of propelling their respective organizations toward best-in-class status by reducing costs, improving cycle times, eliminating defects, eliminating variation and significantly increasing customer satisfaction.
Green Belts are highly trained practitioners who possess the technical knowledge and skills that are necessary to facilitate breakthrough improvements in key processes that support the overall business aims and operational goals of an enterprise.
Commitment
This 20-week Green Belt Course will require a five (5) hour weekly commitment. The actual task-time will vary. The program’s webinar schedule for the Blended Learning model will be assigned by the facilitator and the students based on their availability.
Program Cost
The fee for the Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Program is $1995 per person and includes a free one-year membership to the MWCC (a $1250 value). This tuition covers all academic modules and course training material. Students will receive a training guide in the form of Summary Slides that review each module in the form PDF files.
Participants who successfully complete the program will be presented with a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certificate.
COMPLETE COURSE DESCRIPTION HERE

TRAINING FUNDS
Maryland manufacturing & technology companies can be eligible for 50% reimbursement of the program training costs. Please contact Joyce La Padula at 410-960-3785 or via email at joyce@leanmaryland.com for reimbursement criteria.
Who Should Attend?
The LSSGB Program is appropriate for workers at all levels in the organization. This structured program provides guidance for change agents the organization may be underutilizing. No prior exposure to Lean Six Sigma is required. Candidates would enjoy solving problems, working with data as well as working in a project-based, team-oriented environment.
Prerequisites
Basic arithmetic skills are essential (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, decimals). Basic computer skills are also essential. In this context, a rudimentary understanding of Excel is highly recommended.
Questions?
If you have questions about this program, contact MWCC Managing Director, Joyce La Padula (410-960-3785).

MEDA New Member Orientation
2022-06-01 11:30 - 12:30 | MD
Thank you for joining MEDA! We invite you to attend our New Member Orientation to connect with fellow new members, the MEDA team, and board members. During this one-hour session, we’ll discuss the benefits of MEDA, the role of each committee, and how you can get involved with the organization.
This session will be held on Zoom. Please complete the form below to register. Once you’ve registered, you’ll receive an email from info@medamd.com with your Zoom login details. Please check your spam folder if you don’t immediately see the email.

Kauffman FastTrac @ MIC -- Howard County Economic Development Authority
2022-05-19 18:00 - 21:00 | Maryland Innovation Center, 6751 Columbia Gateway Dr, Columbia, Maryland, 21046
You have an idea for a business. Now what? Join us for our next Kauffman FastTrac Cohort to find out!

Find the answer with this hands-on, comprehensive program providing a solid framework to support you as you start a business and begin your journey to success. We will dig into the steps you need to take and help you formulate your product or service idea, build a business plan, consider the marketing, sales, legal and financial aspects of starting a business.
This program is built on the highly acclaimed Kauffman FastTrac® program. You will have access to a rich set of materials and templates to help get your business started.
There will be guest speakers to personally answer your questions from banking, marketing, legal, HR, and entrepreneurs who have been there and done that.
Held on Thursdays in the evenings on 5/19 to 7/28 at the Maryland Innovation Center (MIC) you will also have the opportunity to grow your network and learn from others in the program so please plan to attend all sessions. There will be light refreshments available. Throughout the 10-week course, you will:

1. Explore Your Innovative Business Idea
2. Identify & Meet Market Needs
3. Set Financial Goals
4. Plan Your Products/Services
5. Research & Analyze the Market
6. Discover Your Competitive Advantage
7. Build Your Own Organization & Team
8. Plan for a Profitable Business
9. Understand Cash Flow & Acquiring Funds
10. Implement Your Business Plan

Additional information about the Kauffman FastTrac Program can be found on their website by clicking here.
Registration closes on May 18 at 11:30 PM. Please note, there is a fee to participate. A generous tuition subsidy is available to encourage Howard County residents and businesses to participate.
About Kauffman FastTrac®:
Kauffman FastTrac® equips aspiring entrepreneurs with the business skills, insights, tools, resources, and peer networks necessary to start and grow successful businesses. The program was launched by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation headquartered in Kansas City, Mo., and carries out Mr. K’s belief that everyone has a fundamental right to turn an idea into an economic reality, regardless of who you are or where you’re from, with zero barriers in the way. Kauffman FastTrac® participants decide between self-paced, virtual learning or affiliate learning. Affiliate learning is in a classroom with other entrepreneurs and a FastTrac facilitator or in a virtual environment with a FastTrac facilitator. A blend of both virtual and in-person learning with a FastTrac facilitator is available, also.

Facilitators:

Doug Holly – Entrepreneur in Residence at the Maryland Innovation Center (MIC) for the past 5 years where he provides mentorship and programming to MIC members. Doug is also a mentor at Bethesda Green and for the MTC Venture Mentor Services program. He runs a management consulting business, Eagle Management Group where he helps small businesses owners achieve organizational and operational effectiveness as they grow. Previously Doug managed the development and fielding of computer and telecommunications products and services for IBM, TTC, Acterna and JDSU (now Viavi Solutions). He also handled over a dozen M&A projects from due diligence through to integration. He is a member of PMI, IEEE and a certified Kauffman FastTrac facilitator and Program Director.

Russell C. Teter III – A certified coach/facilitator how has coached over 16,000 business owners/executives during a 25-year career across nearly every major industry sector, specializing in government contractors. He is currently the Director of Training for the University of Maryland’s Small Business Development Center. Russell transforms firms by developing organizations that result in faster growth, greater profits, and higher value. He is certified by FranklinCovey– the world’s premier leader in strategy execution, decision making, customer loyalty, leadership, and individual effectiveness. He is also a Certified ValueBuilder Coach, Kauffman Foundation facilitator, and partners with Dale Carnegie Training.

Vance MacEwen, MA, MBA – Entrepreneur in Residence at the Maryland Innovation Center (MIC) and co-founder CEO of Greatest Possible Good, a design thinking firm for social good. Vance mentors residents and affiliates of the MIC and volunteers through the Maryland Tech Council Venture Mentor Services, SEED SPOT, and the Youth Leaders of the Americas Initiative. Greatest Possible Good, winner of the 2019 MICA UP/Start Venture Competition, works with social entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and small businesses to align teams and executives’ actions with their visions for impact. Vance previously served as chief of staff for Montgomery County Delegate Al Carr, English teacher at a private school in Chengdu, China, and work crew member at McDonogh School. He loves helping founders find their North Stars, hone their business strategies, and win pitches. He is a certified Kauffman FastTrac facilitator.

Cecil County Economic Development Summit 2022
2022-05-18 08:00 - 11:30 | MD

Save the Date for the Hot Topics in Employment Law Seminar
2022-05-13 07:30 - 12:30 | Baltimore Marriott Waterfront
Miles & Stockbridge Special Event
The 20th annual Hot Topics in Employment Law Seminar is coming soon! This year’s seminar, to be held May 13 at the Baltimore Marriott Waterfront Hotel, will feature the latest on topics such as:

COVID compliance update – health and safety, leave, vaccination policies, etc.
Telecommuting and related issues: privacy, security, wage and pay, tax, etc.
Federal, state and local legislation update
Mental health in the workplace

Please mark your calendars now to join our Labor, Employment, Benefits and Immigration Practice Group for this well-attended event. The seminar will provide HRCI Business and SHRM credits.

Register here. We look forward to seeing you on May 13.
Save the Date!
Friday, May 13 | 7:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Baltimore Marriott Waterfront
700 Aliceanna St, Baltimore, MD

Maryland World Class Consortia Hosts "Lean Learnings" Virtual Event
2022-05-10 09:00 - 10:00 | Zoom
Maryland World Class Consortia (MWCC) Hosts “Lean Learnings” Virtual Event
May 10, 2022
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM

Join us for our quick, virtual events called “Lean Learnings“.
From 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., catch a quick presentation from one of our consultants, a member or a guest speaker on some of your favorite lean subjects and methodologies!
Please register — space is limited. www.leanmaryland.com/event-4697580
Topic: AGILE/SCRUM
Dr. Suzette Johnson with Northrop Grumman will describe how Lean Thinking and Agile development techniques enable her company to develop leading edge products under tight budgets and schedules. Lean and Agile accelerate flow and adaptability, and enable employees to bring their best every day. Dr. Johnson’s presentation provides an example of how these techniques can improve product/process/service improvement in any organization.

2022 MEDA Annual Conference
2022-04-24 - 2022-04-26 | Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay, 100 Heron Blvd. at Route 50, Cambridge, MD, 21613, United States
Infrastructure plays a crucial role in creating cohesive, economically vibrant communities. The COVID-19 pandemic has forced communities to rethink the framework, adapting social and physical structures to reflect shifting priorities. The 2022 MEDA Annual Conference will explore these shifts, and their implications on economic developers hoping to increase jobs and community investment.
Decisions made today will impact our economy and our quality of life for decades, so it’s important to get them right. Nationally-recognized keynotes and experts in workforce development, economic equity, small business development, multimodal transportation, broadband, and more will lend perspective and purpose to our efforts ahead.
Scroll down this page to register for the
2022 MEDA Annual Conference
Update: Early bird registration deadline is extended to April 18!
Rooms start at $195 a night. Please use this reservation link. The cutoff for reservations is April 18, 2022.
Support MEDA’s Scholarship Funds by contributing to our 15th Annual Silent Auction! This year’s Silent Auction will be held at the 2022 MEDA Annual Conference. Although we’ll be in person, we’ll continue to use the Handbid Silent Auction website. In the past, we have received some great items from weekend getaways to wine tastings, Oriole Tickets to brewery tours and more. For more information, contact Margaret Bollhorst at margaretb@medamd.com or 410-456-6459. Thank you for your continued support!
Silent Auction Now Live!
The auction is taking place on the Handbid app and website. To access our Silent Auction:
–Download the Handbid app to your iPhone or android phone and search for MEDA Foundation
-or-
–go to the Handbid website online at: www.events.handbid.com/auctions/meda-foundation-15th-silent-auction
View Speaker Slides
Keynote Stu Solomon, CEO of Connected DMV, spoke on “Regionalism: Together We Can.” He shared the slides from his presentation, which you can view here.
Anirban Basu, Chairman & CEO of Sage Policy Group, Inc., shared his slides for his presentation titled “No Time to Buy.” View his slides here.

Access the 2022 MEDA Winter Conference Business Meeting minutes here.

MIC Event: Exceeding Sales Goals in 2022
2022-04-19 11:30 - 13:00 | MD
Join us for a 6 week series held April 19- May 24 to prepare for business success.

As we dive into the new year, have you asked yourself the following questions?

Have I set my 2022 marketing and sales goals?
My goals are set but do I have a plan prepared to reach those goals?
Is my plan executable?… with monthly contact goals and attainable revenue/sales goals?

If you are saying “no” to any of these questions, you might want to join the “Exceeding Sales Goals in 2022” sessions. Sessions will start April 19 thru May 24.
The following topics will be covered:
1. Converting Revenue goals into attainable sales targets.
2. Creating Value Statements and Setting appointments.
3. Handling objections and closing on business.
4. Qualifying questions and streamlining your sales.
5. Forecasting and pipeline.
6. Negotiating and closing.
The program has been structured to have each session build on the previous session to accelerate results. Please try to attend all but attending any with give your a sales boost!
Each session will run for 90 minutes, with 45-60 minutes of content and spirited discussion, followed by 30-45 minutes of Q&A covering all aspects of sales.
Independent of these session, presenter Frank Cook is available for one-on-one session to discuss all aspects of Sales and Client success by connecting with him at Calendly. You may schedule time with Frank using this link https://calendly.com/frank-5150
Please note, this is a 6 week series, held on April 19, April 26, May 3, May 10, May 17, and May 24. Registration is limited and will close on April 18. This event will be virtual.

MWCC: Lean Learnings - Lean Sales
2022-04-13 09:00 - 10:00 | MD
Join us for our quick, virtual events called “Lean Learnings“.
From 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., catch a quick presentation from one of our consultants, a member or a guest speaker on some of your favorite lean subjects and methodologies!
Topic: LEAN SALES

We know that Lean thinking is a performance improvement methodology that can be applied in any environment, in every process and industry, but what about Sales? Have you thought about the application of Lean to Sales? Did you know that the amount of waste in the average sales process is 85%? Have you tried to implement Lean into sales without success? On tool and techniques level, the implementation is different than in operations. Lean Sales is the application of Lean in service processes such as marketing, quoting, and customer service. Lean is the key to increasing sales effectiveness.
Presenters
Charlie Protzman of the Business Improvement Group and Doug Galeone of Chutes International will discuss how Lean is applied to the sales and marketing processes and how they measure results.

Howard County Economic Development Authority HCEDA’s Small Business Resource Information Session
2022-04-12 17:30 - 19:30 | Howard County Economic Development Authority, 6751 Columbia Gateway Dr, 1st Floor, Columbia, Maryland, 21046
If you’re an entrepreneur just starting out, or an established business hoping to scale, you need a business strategy that you can count on. Next Tuesday, April 12, Howard County Economic Development Authority (HCEDA)’s Small Business Resource Information Session will help you plan and grow with confidence.
This two-hour, free session held at HCEDA is packed with information and motivation for local entrepreneurs. The presentation format is supplemented by Q&A and one-to-one sessions to discuss topics specific to attendees.
Each session will include presenters from the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), Howard County Office of Purchasing – Procurement, and HCEDA-Business Development/Catalyst Fund.
These sessions will be held multiple times throughout the year. Upcoming dates include:
April 12, 2022 from 5:30 – 7:30 pm
July 19, 2022 from 5:30 – 7:30 pm
October 11, 2022 from 5:30 – 7:30 pm
January 17, 2023 from 5:30 – 7:30 pm
Take your next step with assurance; register today!

MIC Event: Social Capital Building
2022-04-04 17:30 - 19:30 | Maryland Innovation Center, 6751 Columbia Gateway Dr, Columbia, Maryland, 21046
Learn the key personal skill tied to your business and career success, how to build social capital.

Join us for at the Social Capital for EntreSuccess (SCES) Academy to join a cohort of other entrepreneurs and business owner to learn and practice the key skill of building social capital.
During this 5-week, two hour per week program, you will:
– Increase social capital to take your business to the next level
– Learn about business development programs, services and opportunities
– Grow your revenue and profit margins through connections and resources
A lack of social capital — networks of relationships with potential investors, seasoned advisors and reputable contractors — is a major reason why 90 percent of small businesses fail, according to Dun and Bradstreet, the business data research firm.
Given the statistics, there’s no denying the importance of social capital in driving your business or social venture to the top. With access to social capital, small businesses and entrepreneurs can capitalize on the valuable information, tools, and resources they need for success.
The SCES Academy is a one-of-a-kind, five-week program designed to help entrepreneurs increase their social capital with key “Opportunity Guides” – experts in marketing, sales, contract procurement, law, accounting, business development, hiring, financing, and more – the people who can help your businesses grow.
The SCES Academy will meet at the Maryland Innovation Center from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM each Monday starting April 4 thru May 3. You will also have access to the opportunity HUB and personal mentoring following the program. The cost of the program is normally $495 but due to a generous donation from Howard County, the BRITE program will cover most of the cost and the registration is only $25 for Howard County based businesses or residents. Registration for Maryland residents and businesses outside Howard County is $100.
This program is part of the Howard County, Maryland Innovation Center BRITE (Business Revitalization Initiative Through Entrepreneurship) program and is underwritten by a generous grant from Howard County and is powered by the Howard County Economic Development Authority. The program is conducted by Social Capital Builders, an organization dedicated to teaching people and organizations about the power of social capital and support them in using it to improve economic opportunities.
Please note, this is a 5 series event, held on Apr. 4, Apr. 11, Apr. 18, Apr. 25, and May 2. Registration is limited and will close on April 3. This event will be held in person.

MIC Event: Cyber Safety Program for Small Businesses
2022-03-30 10:00 - 11:00 | Maryland Innovation Center, 6751 Columbia Gateway Dr, Columbia, Maryland, 21046
Are you doing enough to protect your data and organization? Join us at the Cyber Safety Program to learn if you are keeping your data safe.

Please join Maryland Innovation Center (MIC) CISO-In-Residence, Jason Taule for this informational program in our Executive Briefing series. This program is designed to help MIC Resident, Affiliate, and Circle company owners as well as senior leadership of regional SMBs address one of their organization’s most pressing business challenges – information protection and risk management.
This session will help business owners and senior company leadership:

Validate that you’re doing all you should to protect your company
Learn about risks to which your data and operations are exposed
Make carefully reasoned and defensible decisions
Fulfill your due diligence and due care requirements
Ensure the integrity/value of intellectual property and information assets
Protect data customers entrust to your organization for safekeeping
Understand and satisfy credentialing requirements of the MIC Cyber Assurance Seal (as applicable)
Qualify for cyber liability insurance at reduced premium levels
Shorten the sales cycle and meet third party expectations

Registration will close on March 29 at 11 PM and will be held in person.

Bowie BIC and FSC First Present: Powerful Beyond Measure: Women in Entrepreneurship
2022-03-24 18:00 - 19:30 | MD
If you’re a woman in business, or aspire to be, claiming your seat isn’t easy, but there’s plenty of room at the table. Blending experience and expertise, our panel of women business leaders explore the challenges and the opportunities ahead for female entrepreneurs. Join this virtual evening of empowerment! Our moderator will be Renee Nash, News and Public Affairs Director at WHUR 96.3FM & HUR Voices SiriusXM 141.

Pitch and Mingle Series: The Lucky Pitch
2022-03-15 17:00 - 19:00 | Maryland Innovation Center, 6751 Columbia Gateway Dr, Columbia, Maryland, 21046
Join the Maryland Innovation Center for our pitch competition featuring entrepreneurs and start up companies in the community. $7,000 in prizes will be awarded!
Spirited in atmosphere and in food and drink offerings, Pitch and Mingle is the perfect opportunity to stir up your social network, mingling with fellow attendees over light fare and libations!
Come support the community’s entrepreneurs, participate in the selection process, and make connections over cocktails at the MIC.
So how does it work? 5 startups are selected to present a 4-minute pitch. This is followed by 4 minutes of Q&A from the panel of judges and audience. At the end, our judges will come together and select the top 3 companies! These winners will receive cash prizes with first place receiving $3,000! In addition, there will be a “Crowd Favorite” award which is selected by the audience.
Registration for this event is required. Food and drink are included.
Ticket sales close on March 14 at 11:30 PM

Federal Contracting: Closing the Deal Course
2022-03-09 17:00 - 19:00 | MD

MWCC: Lean Learnings - Leading Change
2022-03-09 10:00 - 11:00 | MD
Join us for our quick, virtual events called “Lean Learnings“.
From 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., catch a quick presentation from one of our consultants, a member or a guest speaker on some of your favorite lean subjects and methodologies!
Topic: LEADING CHANGE

Change has always been a part of the human condition. What is different now is the pace of change, and the prospect that it will come faster and faster, affecting every part of life. The age in which we live is changing so fast that we often feel we do not have time to adjust before more change takes place. All this means that we need to “do” change much better than ever before. In a thriving organization, Change Management is the new universal core competency.
Learning FOCUS
Knowledge. What participants need to know and understand to effectively lead and manage change.
Process. A process for change, with steps and activities to effectively prepare, plan, execute and sustain change.
Tools. Practical tools and models to assess, gain perspective and communicate change.
Practices & Behaviors. Important practices, skills and behaviors to build and hone change leadership.
Presenter

Kelly has been a valued MWCC consulting partner since 2000. He helped craft the Consortia’s Lean Facilitator Certification (LFCP) program and continues as LFCP faculty, providing crucial subject matter on the topics of leadership, change management, and culture change.
With over 24 years of global experience in change management, organizational development, leadership development, performance improvement, group psychology and human behavior, Kelly works closely with clients to design and deliver innovative approaches and interventions for lasting and systemic change. He has a long-standing passion for helping teams — especially those that are cross-functional or self-managed — develop the skills and processes necessary to become a team of supportive, high performing colleagues.

Business Retention and Expansion
2022-03-09 - 2022-08-24 | MD
In-person event; details to come.

2022 Economic Development Day
2022-03-08 08:45 - 10:30 | MD
Public sector leaders share their mid-session thoughts on economic development-related legislation that will be considered by the Maryland General Assembly during the 2022 session.
This event is open to MEDA Members, and Elected and Appointed Officials.
This is a virtual event.
Click here to view the agenda.

Social Capital Building
2022-02-28 17:30 - 19:30 | MD
Join us for at the Social Capital for EntreSuccess (SCES) Academy to join a cohort of other entrepreneurs and business owner to learn and practice the key skill of building social capital.
During this 5-week, two hour per week program, you will:
– Increase social capital to take your business to the next level
– Learn about business development programs, services and opportunities
– Grow your revenue and profit margins through connections and resources
A lack of social capital — networks of relationships with potential investors, seasoned advisors and reputable contractors — is a major reason why 90 percent of small businesses fail, according to Dun and Bradstreet, the business data research firm.
Given the statistics, there’s no denying the importance of social capital in driving your business or social venture to the top. With access to social capital, small businesses and entrepreneurs can capitalize on the valuable information, tools, and resources they need for success.
The SCES Academy is a one-of-a-kind, five-week program designed to help entrepreneurs increase their social capital with key “Opportunity Guides” – experts in marketing, sales, contract procurement, law, accounting, business development, hiring, financing, and more – the people who can help your businesses grow.
The SCES Academy will meet at the Maryland Innovation Center from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM each Monday starting Feb. 28 thru Mar. 28. You will also have access to the opportunity HUB and personal mentoring following the program. The cost of the program is normally $495 but due to a generous donation from Howard County, the BRITE program will cover most of the cost and the registration is only $25 for Howard County based businesses or residents. Registration for Maryland residents and businesses outside Howard County is $100.
This program is part of the Howard County, Maryland Innovation Center BRITE (Business Revitalization Initiative Through Entrepreneurship) program and is underwritten by a generous grant from Howard County and is powered by the Howard County Economic Development Authority. The program is conducted by Social Capital Builders, an organization dedicated to teaching people and organizations about the power of social capital and support them in using it to improve economic opportunities.
Please note, this is a 5 series event, held on Feb. 28, Mar. 7, Mar. 14, Mar. 21 and Mar. 28. Registration is limited and will close on Feb. 27. This event will be held in person.

FSC First Digital Annual Meeting
2022-01-26 17:00 - 18:00 | MD
FSC First’s Digital Annual Meeting is happening on Wednesday, January 26th at 5 p.m. Our theme this year is Driven to Make a Difference, and we can’t wait to share with you all we have done to make major impact in the lives of the businesses we serve. We are pleased to highlight our fiscal-year 2021 accomplishments. For the second consecutive year, we are hosting this event virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
We will be honoring 8 businesses and individuals who have overcome significant challenges to grow and stabilize their business with direct financing support from FSC First. They represent the diversity of our community and the critical impact resulting from FSC First providing creative and innovative financing solutions to meet their unique needs.
You won’t want to miss this!

2022 MEDA Winter Conference
2022-01-13 09:00 - 12:30 | VIRTUAL
Public and private sector leaders share their thoughts on economic development-related legislation that will be considered by the Maryland General Assembly during the 2022 session.

The health and safety of our community, staff, and event attendees is MEDA’s highest priority. MEDA has moved this conference to a virtual format.
Access the draft agenda by clicking on this link.
Click here to view the 2021 Fall MEDA Business Meeting minutes.

PATHWAYS TO BUSINESS GROWTH & EXPANSION – PERMITTING – YOU DON’T HAVE TO DO IT ALONE
2021-12-09 09:30 - 10:30 | MD
Looking to grow and expand your business in Prince George’s County? Come hear from permitting, licensing and economic development experts to better understand how to successfully reach your build out and Use and Occupancy goals. Gain a clear understanding of how to navigate the business licensing and permitting processes for private properties, commercial properties, and home-based businesses, as well as fire and food safety processes. Learn how to better plan for and calculate business expansion costs and timelines.
Join PGCEDC for this Lerch Early Brewer sponsored program “PATHWAYS TO BUSINESS GROWTH & EXPANSION – PERMITTING – YOU DON’T HAVE TO DO IT ALONE”
Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_VelWTw-nThi5nld3ZechSg
Learn from:

Nicole Reece, Business Development Office, DPIE, Director’s Office
Clarence Moseley, Permits Center Manager, DPIE Permits & License Division
James Reilly, Contract Project Coordinator III, Office of the Fire Marshall
Myra Leonard, DPIE Environmental Health Specialist, Health Plan Review Section Supervisor
Debra Freeman, Chief of Food Protection, Prince George’s County Department of Health

What You’ll Learn:

How to Avoid common pitfalls by walking through the licensing and permitting process with step-by-steps insights
How the new online portals and expedited processes can save you time and money
More about the 3rd Party review process
The inspector’s role, and food and fire safety processes

EAGB Event: Not your average Regional Briefing: A (virtual) Tour of Greater Baltimore
2021-12-08 13:00 - 14:00 | MD
As 2021 draws to a close, EAGB Board Chair Brian Pieninck (CEO, CareFirst) and President & CEO Michele Whelley invite you to EAGB’s virtual, rapid-fire Regional Briefing and Tour of the thriving Greater Baltimore region.
From the perspective of the Region’s jurisdictional leaders, to on-time insights from CEOs leading the future of industry, to special invited guests, attendees will receive the information they need to kick-start 2022 from this entertaining, one-hour briefing and video tour. Real-time polls and chats will engage you, and 50 ATTENDEES WILL BE RANDOMLY SELECTED TO RECEIVE A GIFT FOLLOWING THE EVENT.
See and hear from:

The Region’s government leaders sharing key progress from the past year in infrastructure, job growth, investment, new businesses, and efforts supporting small businesses;
Industry leaders sharing what you may not know about their industry’s relationship with the Region;
And education’s biggest champion with an update on research, innovation and attraction of talent.

Don’t miss your chance to join in – register for FREE today and look for your exclusive link to participate, coming soon!
Want more? Stay informed of top news, events, business, and investment information from our dynamic Greater Baltimore region by signing up for EAGB’s monthly newsletter!
What can you do to amplify Greater Baltimore’s positive news? Connect and engage with EAGB on social media through Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.
