Maryland Economic Development Association (MEDA)

St. Mary's Young Professionals @ Xella Winery and Vineyard
2023-10-23 05:00 - 19:00 (America/New_York) | Xella Winery & Vineyard, 26781 Laurel Grove Road, Mechanicville, MD, 20659, United States
Come join other local young professionals for a relaxing night at a local family owned & operated small farm winery right here in St. Mary’s County!

Worcester County Tourism and Economic Development’s Economic Development Week Interview with Ocean 98.1,
2023-10-23 08:00 - 17:00

Anne Arundel County Economic Development Corporation’s Business Appreciation Week
2023-10-23 08:00 - 2023-10-27 17:00
We are excited to announce that we are now accepting applications from for-profit businesses in Anne Arundel County that would like to be considered to be visited by AAEDC staff and ambassadors from other county departments during Business Appreciation Week (BAW), October 23-27. During the week, ambassador teams will visit local businesses throughout the county to learn about their successes and their challenges – and, most importantly, to thank them for their contributions to the Anne Arundel County economy.
For-profit businesses of all ages, sizes, and industries are encouraged to apply for 45-minute visits that are being offered in seven regions of the county at two times on each day of the week.
Visits will take place in each of the following seven areas of the county each day:
• West County: Odenton/Ft. Meade/Crofton
• BWI/Linthicum/Hanover
• Brooklyn Park/Glen Burnie
• Pasadena
• Millersville/Severna Park/Arnold
• Annapolis
• Edgewater/South County
Business visits will take place on the following days at the following times:
• Monday, October 23rd 1:00pm-1:45pm
• Monday, October 23rd 2:30pm-3:15pm
• Tuesday, October 24th 1:00pm-1:45pm
• Tuesday, October 24th 2:30pm-3:15pm
• Wednesday, October 25th 9:00am-9:45am
• Wednesday, October 25th 10:30am-11:15am
• Thursday, October 26th 1:00pm-1:45pm
• Thursday, October 26th 2:30pm-3:15pm
• Friday, October 27th 9:00am-9:45am
• Friday, October 27th 10:30am-11:15am

Caroline County Economic Development & Tourism “Thank You! Campaign,”
2023-10-23 08:00 - 2023-10-27 17:00

Montgomery County Black Collective’s Business Growth and Resources: 2024 Business Growth Roadmap
2023-10-23 08:00 - 2023-10-27 17:00 | 77 Upper Rock Circle, 77 Upper Rock Circle, Rockville, MD, 20850, United States
Are you ready to take your business to the next level in 2024? Would you like to get personalized one-on-one advice from marketing, HR, banking, legal, and innovation experts? Join the Montgomery County Black Collective for an insightful session where you’ll gain valuable strategies to prepare your business for the upcoming year. Our panel of experts will kick off the session with a lively discussion on proven growth strategies tailored for small businesses.
After the panel discussion, you’ll have the opportunity to join expert hubs to receive guidance in small groups from each expert. They will provide personalized advice, answer your specific questions, and help you customize strategies in these areas to meet your unique business needs. If you want to learn about the best practices in key areas of operation in 2024, this session is for you!

Finance and Budgeting
Human Capital and Talent
Marketing and Promotions
Small Business Legal Issues

Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation Industry Outreach Days
2023-10-23 08:00 - 2023-10-27 17:00

Queen Anne's County: Economic Development Week
2023-10-23 08:00 - 2023-10-27 17:00

Washington County Economic Development Week Scavenger Hunt/Trivia
2023-10-23 08:00 - 2023-10-27 17:00

Worcester County Tourism and Economic Development Business Visits
2023-10-23 08:00 - 2023-10-27 17:00

Howard County Business Appreciation Week 2023!
2023-10-23 09:00 - 2023-10-27 11:00
Howard County welcomes businesses of all industries and sizes to take part in this year’s Business Appreciation Week 2023, October 23-27, 2023. During the week, ambassador teams including county department heads, government officials, community organization leaders, and Howard County Economic Development Authority (HCEDA) team members will visit local businesses to learn more about their experiences doing business in Howard County.
As part of HCEDA’s ongoing mission with County Executive Calvin Ball, we would like to hear directly from businesses to:

Learn more about the company’s growth, highlights, and challenges
Receive feedback on opportunities to continue to improve the business climate in Howard County

Garrett County Business Ribbon Cuttings
2023-10-24 08:00 - 2023-10-27 17:00

State of the County Luncheon
2023-10-24 11:30 - 13:30 | Bay District Volunteer Fire Dept, 46900 S. Shangri-La Drive, Lexington Park,, MD, 20653, United States
Hear from our County Commissioners about the county, and ask your questions in a moderated Q/A session.
Doors open at 11:30 am, program at 12:00 pm.
$40 per person.

Worcester County Tourism and Economic Development’s Open House
2023-10-24 16:00 - 18:00

Harford Award Celebration
2023-10-24 17:00 - 20:00 | Water’s Edge Events Center, 4687 Millennium Drive, Belcamp, MD, 21017, United States
Water’s Edge Events Center
4687 Millennium Drive
Belcamp, MD 21017

Fees/Admission
Member Advanced: $100 per registration (by 5pm October 6th)
Member Standard: $125 per registration (by 5pm October 6th)
Guest Advanced: $110 per registration
Guest Standard: $135 per registration
Various sponsorships are available! See the full list here and choose the sponsorship you would like from the drop down menu in the registration form.
Contact Information

Please email Angela Rose with any questions
Send Email

2023 MEDA Fall Conference
2023-10-25 08:00 - 16:00 | Antrim 1844, 30 Trevanion Road, Taneytown, MD, 21787, United States
Innovations in Manufacturing
Wednesday, October 25, 2023 from 8 AM – 4 PM
Antrim 1844 in Taneytown, MD (Carroll County)
The 2023 MEDA Fall Conference, held on October 25th at Antrim 1844 in Taneytown, located in Carroll County, MD, successfully concluded with a focus on “Innovations in Manufacturing.” The event kicked off with a warm welcome from MEDA President Richard Griffin, CEcD, Denise Beaver, CEcD, Ed Rothstein, President of the Board of County Commissioners, Jay Meashey, Director of Economic Development for the Town of Taneytown, and Mayor Christopher Miller of Taneytown followed by the MEDA Business Meeting. A highlight was the keynote address by Kevin Atticks, Secretary of the Maryland Department of Agriculture, who spoke about the vital role of ag-technology and value-added agriculture in Maryland’s manufacturing sector. The conference also featured insightful sessions like “Manufacturing Myths in Maryland 2023” by Susan Chambers and a diverse panel discussion titled “Let’s Talk Talent,” moderated by Latrice Lewis.
The second half of the conference continued with engaging discussions and insights. A fireside chat with Philip Tulkoff and Thereasa Black delved into the significance of food-based manufacturing. Post-lunch, attendees heard Maureen Donohue Krauss’s keynote on the Global Epicenter of Mobility (GEM) and its potential model for Maryland’s economic development. The event wrapped up with closing remarks by MEDA President Richard Griffin, CEcD, and a tour of Taneytown, highlighting its growth and manufacturing achievements. Overall, the conference provided valuable perspectives and strategies to support and nurture Maryland’s robust manufacturing industry.
Click here to view photos from the 2023 Fall Conference
Click here to view the Draft Summer Conference Meeting Minutes
Click here to view the 2023 MEDA Fall Conference Agenda

Protecting Maryland Agriculture: Smart Farming Challenges & Solutions
2023-10-25 08:30 - 13:30 | Eastern Shore Higher Education Center at Chesapeake College, 1000 College Cir, Queenstown, MD, 21658, United States
This forum will bring industry leaders from agriculture, cybersecurity, government, and education together to discuss the smart farming technologies used in food production with their associated cybersecurity risks and challenges. Attendees will learn about resources and solutions available to protect our food supply pipeline in Maryland and beyond. Sponsored and hosted by TEDCO, Bay Crossing Consulting, and Queen Anne’s County Economic & Tourism Development, this forum will feature industry experts discussing the do’s and don’ts of staying secure in today’s increasingly technological agricultural environment. We invite individuals involved in the farming or primary food processing, and/or cybersecurity industries to join us for the event.

HCEDA Open House
2023-10-26 09:00 - 12:30 | Maryland Innovation Center, 6751 Columbia Gateway Dr, Columbia, Maryland, 21046
During Business Appreciation Week, HCEDA is hosting an expo-style resource fair where business owners can access information on HCEDA’s services and programs, connect with the business development team and mentors, and explore initiatives like the Catalyst Fund and New LIFT Microloan Fund, along with a guided tour of the Maryland Innovation Center.
Don’t miss an opportunity to hear from leading industry partners and Howard County agencies including: NSA, TEDCO, HC Library, HC Office of Procurement and Contract Administration, HC Office of Workforce Development, HC Department of Community Resources and Services and more.

Celebrating St. Mary’s Businesses
2023-10-27
Economic Development Week Recap
Recognitions & Celebrations

MCBC Ribbon Cutting Invite
2023-10-27 10:00 - 11:00 | 4701 Sangamore Road, Unit M3, 4701 Sangamore Road Unit M3, Bethesda, MD, United States
The store will feature the La Magnoliah children’s clothing line that is chemical free and breathable, and helps prevent allergic reactions. The line is designed by Coumba Graves, a Fellow in the Collectives’ AMBER business development program. Ms. Graves is an active member of the Maryland Black Chamber of Commerce.

MCBC: Small Business Lending
2023-10-27 17:30 - 20:30 | 51 Monroe Street, PE-20, 51 Monroe Street, PE-20, Rockville, MD, 20850, United States
It’s time to find ways to grow and expand your business. If you are thinking about accessing capital, such as credit or loans, you need the tools for success before you complete an application. This financial clinic will present the inside details of applying for your business loan. We will review the required documents, background material, and strategies you will be asked to share. The panelists will share the type of detailed financial reports you will be required to produce and how they are interpreted, the tips for types of capital funding, and how to protect your business in the application process. You will be able to meet with a Certified Public Accountant and ask questions about the financial management process. Presenters include:

Robert Johnson
Vice President, Commercial Banking
Truist Bank
Jason Williams
Certified Public Accountant
The Accounting Analyst

Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation’s : 40th Anniversary Gala
2023-11-03 18:00 - 21:00 | MGM National Harbor Hotel & Casino, 101 MGM National Avenue, Oxon Hill, MD, 20745, United States
Friday, November 03, 2023 | Cocktail Hour starts at 6:00pm | Attire: Formal / Semi-Formal
Join the Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation as we celebrate our 40th Anniversary in spectacular fashion! This will be PGCEDC’s Inaugural Gala and the County’s newest premier event. Cash bar will be available.

The 40th Anniversary Gala will be held at the MGM National Harbor where you can join the County’s best for dinner in the splendor of the fabulous the MGM Resort! Network with the stakeholders, deal makers, and business community from the State and Local level and dance the night away!
Don’t Miss Out, Get Your Tickets Today!

Charles County Economic Development Department: Fall Meeting 2023
2023-11-07 08:00 - 12:00 | Greater Waldorf Jaycees Community Center, 3090 Crain Highway , Waldorf, Maryland
Charles County Economic Development Department
Fall Meeting 2023: Advancing Workforce Together
When: November 7, 2023 from 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Where: Greater Waldorf Jaycees Community Center
Attracting and retaining a quality, skilled workforce is one of the most significant challenges Charles County businesses are facing in a post-pandemic economy. The Charles County Economic Development Department invites you to join us on November 7, 8:00 am to 12:00 pm, at the Greater Waldorf Jaycees Community Center to discuss workforce issues at our 2023 Fall Meeting “Charles County: Advancing Workforce Together.”
We’ll explore the challenges and opportunities associated with developing a skilled and diverse workforce. Our distinguished lineup of speakers will include insightful business owners, visionary economic development leaders, state representatives, and experts in workforce development. Each will share their perspective, all intended to deepen your understanding of the evolving workforce landscape in Charles County.
The Annual Fall Meeting is your opportunity to stay informed about Charles County’s initiatives to help businesses grow and thrive, and to learn about the trends shaping workforce everywhere. Join us for the 2023 Fall Meeting – Advancing Workforce Together! Tickets, set at $35, include a full breakfast.
Click here to view the Fall Meeting 2023 schedule.
For more information and to register online, please click here.

2023 MEDA Young Leaders Virtual Networking Session (Dec 2023)
2023-12-01 11:00 - 12:00
MEDA Young Leaders Virtual Networking Session — December 2023
When: Friday, December 1st, at 11:00 AM
Who: MEDA Young Leaders
Engage with the MEDA Young Leaders Virtual Networking Sessions, a professionally curated forum designed for continuous learning and connection. Convening bi-monthly for an hour, these sessions are a valuable opportunity to hear from an array of distinguished economic development speakers, each bringing unique insights and expertise. The structure caters to both first-time attendees and regular participants, ensuring a rewarding experience with each session. Participants are encouraged to join as their schedules permit, with the assurance that each session offers a standalone opportunity for enrichment and networking.
Join us on December 1st from 11 AM to 12 PM for an insightful MEDA Young Leaders Online Networking Session featuring Richard Griffin, CEcD, MEDA Board President and Director of Economic Development for the City of Frederick. In this session, Griffin will delve into his career journey, sharing stories from his most memorable projects to the challenges he’s overcome. He’ll offer insights imparted to him during his early professional years and discuss influential figures who have shaped his career trajectory. The session will be interactive, with ample opportunity for Q&A.
Register below!

2024 MEDA Winter Conference
2024-01-11 | Governor Calvert House, 58 State Circle, Annapolis, MD, 21401, United States
MEDA Winter Conference
When: January 11, 2024
Location: Governor Calvert House, Annapolis, MD
2024 Legislative Outlook For Economic Development
The 2024 MEDA Winter Conference, held on January 11th at the Governor Calvert House in Annapolis, MD, was a great success! The conference provided a unique opportunity to learn about pivotal economic development legislation from esteemed leaders in both the public and private sectors. The event began with a warm welcome to Anne Arundel County and the City of Annapolis from Amy Gowan, CEO of Anne Arundel Economic Development Corporation, Steuart Pittman, Anne Arundel County Executive, Stephan Rice, Economic Development Manager of the City of Annapolis, and Gavin Buckley, Mayor of Annapolis, followed by the MEDA Business Meeting. Next was the Maryland Business Leadership Report, where distinguished professionals discussed the current state of business in Maryland and shared their insights on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Tiffany Harvey, Principal of Cornerstone Government Affairs, moderated the panel which consisted of Mark Anthony Thomas, President/CEO of the Greater Baltimore Committee, Mary Kane, President/CEO of the Maryland Chamber of Commerce, Theresa Brown Kuhns, Chief Executive Officer of the Maryland Municipal League, Jack McDougle, President/CEO of the Greater Washington Board of Trade, and Michael Sanderson, Executive Director of the Maryland Association of Counties.
The afternoon continued with Maryland’s Legislative Outlook, where panelists shared their perspectives on the legislative landscape in Maryland and discussed the potential impact of upcoming policy changes on Maryland’s business community. Tammi Thomas, Chief Development and Marketing Officer at TEDCO and VP of the Board of Directors for MEDA, moderated this panel. It was made up of Honorable Malcolm Augustine, Senate President Pro Tem, Honorable Stephen Hershey, Jr., Senate Minority Leader, Honorable David Moon, House Majority Leader, and Honorable Jason Buckel, House Minority Leader. The conference concluded with the keynote address, which was delivered by Governor Wes Moore, where he stated, “If you want to have a growing economy, make sure everyone is growing in that economy.”
We extend our sincere appreciation to all sponsors for their invaluable expertise and contributions.
Click here to view photos from the 2024 MEDA Winter Conference
Click here to view the draft minutes from the 2023 Fall Conference Business Meeting

Carroll County Workforce Development - Talent Reimagined Workforce Convening
2024-01-17 09:00 - 11:30 | Carroll County Community College, Room K100, 1601 Washington Rd, Westminister, MD, 21157
When: January 17th, 2024 9:00am – 11:30am, Networking begins at 8:30am
Where: Carroll Community College, Room K100
Join Carroll County Workforce Board’s first annual convening- let’s reimagine the future of workforce in Carroll County together!

Attend a panel discussion with local industry leaders
Learn about Carroll County’s economic outlook
Discuss the importance of youth as the emerging workforce

For more information and to register online, please visit: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0B4CAEAB23A0FDC61-46842909-talent

Big Idea CONNECTpreneur
2024-01-24 16:30 - 20:50 | The Universities at Shady Grove, 9630 Gudelsky Dr, Rockville, MD, 20850
When: January 24, 2024 from 4:30 PM – 8:50 PM
Where: Universities at Shady Grove
CONNECTpreneur Forums are bi-monthly in person networking mashups, which have been attended by over 25,000 business leaders over the past 13 years.
Space is very limited at this venue, and this will be our 59th consecutive Sold Out in person event, so there will be no on-site registration.
All attendees must be pre-registered.
Program Highlights:

Showcase of Emerging tech companies: A dedicated session for companies to showcase their groundbreaking ideas and innovations to a captivated audience of investors and industry experts.
300+ business leaders, including 100+ CEOs & Founders, as well as 100+ angels & VCs
Panel of All Star VCs and investors
Speakers who are deeply rooted in our community, sharing their insider knowledge and showcasing the innovation thriving in our region.
Updates from Maryland Technology Council, The Universities at Shady Grove, and WorkSource Montgomery
Heavy networking before, during, and after the event

Special Guests and Speakers:
S. Tien Wong – Founder, Big Idea CONNECTpreneur Community; CEO, Opus8
Skylar Rallison – Community Manager, CONNECTpreneur Community – EVENT EMCEE
Dr. Anne Khademian – Executive Director, The Universities at Shady Grove
Judy Costello – Special Projects Manager, Business, Innovation, Economic Dev.; Office of the County Executive, Montgomery County, Maryland
Kelly Schulz – CEO, Maryland Technology Council
Anthony Featherstone – Executive Director, WorkSource Montgomery
Bill Tompkins – President and CEO, Montgomery County Economic Development Corp.
Mark Haas – CEO, AEG
Anthony Millin – Founder and Co-Chair, NEXT
Agenda
4:30 PM – 5:50 PM Registration and Networking
5:55 PM – 6:15 PM Welcome Remarks
6:15 PM – 6:25 PM WorkSource Montgomery Update
6:25 PM – 7:05 PM All-Star Investor Panel – “Current Trends in Early Stage Capital”
7:05 PM – 7:50 PM Company Showcase/Rocket Pitch – Promising Early Stage Companies
7:50 PM – 8:50 PM Networking
Click here to view TESTIMONIALS and MEDIA
Click here to view PREVIOUS INVESTOR PARTICIPANTS (partial list)

Cureate x Humble Hearts : Connect the Dots - A Speed Networking Event
2024-01-24 17:00 - 19:00 | Holiday Inn Express Annapolis East-Kent Island, an IHG Hotel, 1020 Kent Narrows Road, Grasonville, Maryland
When: January 24, 2024 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Where: Holiday Inn Express Annapolis East-Kent Island, an IHG Hotel
Come and Join Us for an evening of Speed & Social Networking! This event is designed to allow community stakeholders, value-added producers, farmers, caterers, and other small businesses within the hospitality industry to meet, connect, and share information to foster a stronger support system for those in all stages of their business.
Cureate is in partnership with Baltimore Community Lending. If you are interested in growing your business and need 1:1 coaching or access to capital, reach out to hello@cureate.co (coaching) orinfo@bclending.org (capital).
To register or learn more about this event, please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/cureate-x-humble-hearts-connect-the-dots-a-speed-networking-event-tickets-772973172567?utm_medium=email&_hsmi=290383750&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_GU46UDLoy589xwlQ_9XuTtbuuxpqF9yWkACtzLIHKyt4vvy-4yK3znAukiXfSESkRTcM3obMogMycJ8OmvQYNufpORA&utm_content=290383750&utm_source=hs_email

2024 MEDA Young Leaders Virtual Networking Session (Jan 2024)
2024-01-26 11:00 - 12:00
MEDA Young Leaders Virtual Networking Session — January 2024
When: Friday, January 26th, at 11:00 AM
Who: MEDA Young Leaders
Engage with the MEDA Young Leaders Virtual Networking Sessions, a professionally curated forum designed for continuous learning and connection. Convening bi-monthly for an hour, these sessions are a valuable opportunity to hear from an array of distinguished economic development speakers, each bringing unique insights and expertise. The structure caters to both first-time attendees and regular participants, ensuring a rewarding experience with each session. Participants are encouraged to join as their schedules permit, with the assurance that each session offers a standalone opportunity for enrichment and networking.
Join us on January 26th from 11 AM to 12 PM for an insightful MEDA Young Leaders Online Networking Session featuring The MEDA Professional Development Committee. This MEDA committee assists members in pursuing their professional growth goals. Consisting of seasoned economic development experts from across Maryland, the committee offers invaluable insights and support for career development. This Young Leaders Virtual Networking is an AMA (ask me anything) session where Young Leaders are encouraged to come prepared with questions regarding the economic development industry, career growth and development, MEDA mentorship, and more. Questions will be asked during the virtual session or entered in the “Ask The MEDA Professional Development Committee a Question” field on the registration form below. MEDA Young Leaders are encouraged to take full advantage of this incredible opportunity to gain valuable insights and new perspectives from the experts shaping the economic landscape!
Register via this link: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEqd–upzMpEt0aKRGQFlooEN7JgpTjq9Nt

Investment Open Forum (January 2024)
2024-01-31 10:00
Investment Open Forum (January 2024)
When: Jan 31, 2024 10:00 AM in Eastern Time (US & Canada)
Description: Attend the Open Forum to learn more about TEDCO’s Investment Funds and let TEDCO learn more about your company.
Hosted by: Katherine Hill Ritchie, Senior Director, Venture Funds, TEDCO
Meeting Registration
To apply for this event, visit https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwkfumorjstE9xssYhsMBimSbETVEqI17lt#/registration

2024 Economic Development Day In Annapolis
2024-02-15 09:30 - 14:00 | Governor Calvert House, 58 State Circle, Annapolis, MD, 21401, United States
When: February 15, 2024, from 9:30 AM to 2 PM
Where: Governor Calvert House, 58 State Circle, Annapolis, MD 21401
MEDA’s 2024 Economic Development Day in Annapolis served as a platform for networking and informing attendees about legislation related to economic development that the Maryland General Assembly is considering in the 2024 session. MEDA would also like to thank the Bainbridge Development Corporation and the Rockville Economic Development, Inc. for sponsoring Economic Development Day in Annapolis.
Click here to see the photos.

AGENDA:
9:30 – 10:00 am Networking and Continental Breakfast

Welcome: Richard Griffin, CEcD, MEDA President

10:00 – 10:15 am Review Governor Moore’s Legislative Agenda

Brad Fallon, Deputy Legislative Officer to Governor Moore

10:15 – 11:30 am State House Session Observation and Meetings with Legislators
11:30 – 11:45 am MEDA ROI Dashboard Discussion

Moderator: Jennifer LaHatte, Managing Director of Policy, Research & Government Affairs, Maryland Department of Commerce
Speakers: John N. Hickman, Director, BEACON Salisbury University, and Larry Twele, CEcD, Principal, Eastport Partners

11:45 – 12:30 pm Lunch and Panel Presentation

Moderator: Lori Valentine, Vice President of Policy and Public Relations, Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation
Panel: Senator J. B. Jennings

12:30 – 12:45 pm Secretary Keynote

Secretary Kevin Anderson, Maryland Department of Commerce
Introduction: Andrea Mansfield, Government Affairs Professional, Manis Canning & Associates

12:45 – 2:00 pm Networking
Please consider supporting Economic Development Day as a sponsor or a partner. Your contributions provide MEDA members with the platform to move their communities forward. As a thank you, MEDA offers sponsors and partners display space on Economic Development Day and recognition of their support on social media and at the event itself. Contact Pam Ruff at info@MEDAmd.com to learn how you can participate.
Sponsor Economic Development Day in Annapolis for $1,000 to receive two complimentary tickets or $500 for one ticket; both include a logo presence on all electronic marketing materials.
