Maryland Economic Development Association (MEDA)

2021 MEDA Rural Economic Development Session - Mid and Lower Shore
2021-10-28 08:30 - 12:30 (America/New_York) | VIRTUAL
This event is open to MEDA Members, and Mid and Lower Shore elected and appointed officials.
To grow and thrive, our communities need small businesses and small businesses need our communities. The challenges that small businesses face in recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic touch all aspects of economic development and community needs – recovery and resiliency, equity and inclusion, and financing and monetary support – are the same challenges of Eastern Shore communities. The Rural Economic Development Session will provide an overview of programs and initiatives to support rural small businesses.
8:30 AM Welcome Remarks
Danny Thompson, Director, Somerset County Economic Development Commission
Dr. Heidi Anderson, President, University of Maryland Eastern Shore
8:45 AM PNC Bank Welcome
Christopher Rockey, SVP, Northeast Territory Executive, Community Development Banking
Ramsey Harris, Vice President, Greater Maryland Market Manager, Community Development Banking
9:00-9:30 ECONOMIC RECOVERY AND RESILIENCY:
How can we be better prepared for the next economic disruption?
The COVID19 pandemic response impacted businesses across all sectors. What did those impacts look like, and how can economic development offices use data and information to implement programs to be even more ready to respond to an economic emergency? Through a collaborative partnership, Salisbury University built data tools and gathered intel to help economic development offices and businesses long- and short-term economic disruptions.
Introduction by: Deborah Bowden, Director, Economic Development, Caroline County
Presenter: Dr. Michael Scott, Dean, Henson School of Science and Technology, Salisbury University
9:30-10:15 EQUITY AND INCLUSION:
What does it mean to have equity and inclusion in a small business?
Economic developers need to understand how to support businesses in their efforts to serve the vulnerable and hard-to-reach populations. Also, in furthering recovery effort, we must ensure that economic development opportunities are accessible to everyone in a community.
Introduction by: Susan Banks, Director, Economic Development, Dorchester County

Moderator: Imani Black, Founder & President, Minorities in Aquaculture
Cassandra Brown, Owner, Una Bella Salute
Shawna N. Kearsley, Director of Corporate and Community Relations, Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art
Ruby Vanags, Owner, Ruby’s Cakes Shoppe and Pastries

10:15- 11:15 ACCESSING CAPITAL:
What resources are available to small businesses, and how does money management lead to success?
Capital and credit are the lifeblood of any business. Even when everything else lines up, the lack of credit or too-expensive capital can bring a viable project to a halt. Learn about the resources that businesses have available to them from the private and public sector and hear from business owners on how they were able to obtain the resources they needed to open and stay in business.
Introduction by: Cassandra Vanhooser, Director, Economic Development and Tourism, Talbot County

Moderator: Derick Daly, CPA, Executive Director, Building African American Minds (BAAM)
John Hickman, Director, Small Business Development Center, Salisbury University
Stephen Auvil, Chief Program Operations Officer, TEDCO
Maurice Ames, Executive Director, Maryland Capital Enterprise

11:15 – 12:00 “BROUGHT TO YOU BY…”
How to reengage the workforce? How do we grow local talent and keep talent our educational institutions?
The labor market is the best challenge facing businesses now. There are many organizations trying to help solve the problem – hear how some are approaching solutions to the labor market issue.
Introduction by: Melanie Pursel, Director, Office of Tourism & Economic Development, Worcester County

Moderator: Gregory Padgham, Executive Director, Tri-County Council Lower Eastern Shore of Maryland
Michelle Anders, HR Director, Dart Container
Michael E. Haynie, CTA, Founder, The Maryland Center for Hospitality Training

12:00 – 12:30 KEYNOTE SPEAKER WITH Q&A
Introduction by: David Ryan, Executive Director, Salisbury-Wicomico Economic Development, Inc.
Signe Pringle, Deputy Secretary, Maryland Department of Commerce

Intellectual Property in Government Contracts
2021-10-28 10:00 - 11:00 | MD
The US government, through contracts, grants, and other agreements, provides opportunities for contractors of all sizes to research and develop new technologies and leverage existing technologies to meet both government and commercial needs. But it is vital that contractors fully understand the regulatory requirements that apply to these research and development opportunities to ensure that they protect existing intellectual property and secure rights in newly developed IP to the maximum extent possible.
Small businesses in particular have unique opportunities under the Small Business Innovation Research (“SBIR”) Program to engage in federally-funded research and development opportunities with the potential for commercialization of IP developed under SBIR agreement. Similarly, other transaction agreements (“OTAs”), which provide opportunities for research and development and prototype projects that can lead to future production contracts, may permit a contractor to secure IP rights beyond what is typically allowed under traditional government contracts. Indeed, unlike government contracts to which rigid IP provisions apply, IP rights under OTAs are negotiable.
Please join Richard Arnholt and Sylvia Yi, two attorneys in Bass Berry & Sims’ Government Contracts Practice, for a webinar at 10AM on October 28 to learn more about intellectual property rights and opportunities in government contracts, including:
· How do I protect my company’s proprietary intellectual property while leveraging its unique capabilities for the US government?
· What is the SBIR Program and what are its benefits?
· What are OTAs and what IP rights apply?
· What are “march-in rights” and what are my company’s obligations?
· And much more!

Maryland Made: Manufacturers and Makers Trivia Night
2021-10-28 18:00 - 20:00 | MD
Does your company MANUFACTURE, ASSEMBLE, FABRICATE, PROTOTYPE, PROCESS, PRODUCE, or MAKE products by hand or by machine in a commercial or home-based setting?
Do you have an idea or concept and want to manufacture it in Maryland?
CONNECT, NETWORK and PLAY!
Come join us for a round or two of trivia!
This Southern Maryland Innovates event will feature manufacturers and makers throughout SOMD. And if you need assistance, information and resources we have that for you too!

City of Hyattsville Certificates of Recognition
2021-10-29 | MD
Mayor Ward will present local outstanding businesses with Certificates of Recognition, celebrating their commitment to community engagement and capacity building.

SHORE HATCHERY
2021-10-29 12:00 - 16:00 | MD
Salisbury University’s Purdue School of Business Philip E. & Carole R. Ratcliffe Foundation Shore Hatchery is a bi-annual Mid-Atlantic business competition. The Shore Hatchery is open to any Mid-Atlantic business startups. It is a ten-year $2 million initiative, which began in 2013. The program assists entrepreneurs in creating new businesses and jobs in the region. Startups apply for a share of $200,000 annually. The goal of the Shore Hatchery is to reward individuals for their entrepreneurial efforts in the creation and growth of businesses with the potential of positively impacting regional employment within three years.

IEDC: Neighborhood Development Strategies
2021-11-02 - 2021-11-03 | MD
This practitioner-driven course uses the case study method to complement current neighborhood development theory. Participants will learn how to identify the major neighborhood actors, their objectives, and strategies for redevelopment, in addition to understanding the process for creating a strategic economic development plan to meet the neighborhood development goals. Specifically, this course will examine social capital (e.g., linkages, networks, talent, etc.), environmental capital (e.g., stewardship, residual management, etc.) and economic capital (e.g., investment and reinvestment) facing distressed neighborhoods and offer solutions to address local needs.

Course Highlights:
• Asset creation, wealth creation, and enterprise development & expansion
• Housing development, real estate speculation, and tax-base stabilization
• Public and private sector role in combating inner city unemployment
• Examining historical and current neighborhood trends
• Performing leakage assessments and gap analyses
• Aligning strategic plans for multiple neighborhood groups
• Understanding the underserved needs for banking and grocery
• Working with media to share success stories

2021 Fall Meeting
2021-11-02 08:30 - 12:00 | MD
Charles County Economic Development Department’s 2021 Fall Meeting
Charles County continues to evolve as a community where businesses find success in a competitive, sustainable, and diverse environment. The Charles County Economic Development Department invites you to attend its 2021 Fall Meeting – Opening Doors. Join Charles County business leaders, regional commercial real estate professionals, economists, and stakeholders to dive into how Charles County positions all businesses to thrive.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE FALL MEETING INCLUDE:

A presentation by Anirban Basu, economist and CEO of Sage Policy Group, who will provide an update on Maryland’s economy and outlook for 2022
An update from the Charles County Economic Development Department
A dynamic panel on the future of commercial real estate
And a fast-paced, Ignite session with local entrepreneurs highlighting resources for success

EAGB 2021 Annual Meeting
2021-11-02 17:00 - 19:30 | M&T Bank Stadium, 1101 Russell Street, Baltimore, MD, 21230, United States
The event the entire Region has been waiting for!
The EAGB 2021 Annual Meeting will take place IN-PERSON on Tuesday, November 2, 2021, 5-7:30pm, at M&T Bank Stadium.
Can’t predict the future? That’s ok! Take advantage of the lowest ticket price available – $50 – for EAGB’s 2021 Annual Meeting planned for November 2, 5-7:30pm, at M&T Bank Stadium, with the option to receive a refund (less Eventbrite fee) to your original payment method. There’s no need to wait to secure your spot to the Region’s premier business networking event before the limited-time summer early bird special ends! (Reg. ticket price $150)
High-visibility, high-impact 2021 Annual Meeting Event Sponsorships are available now! The earlier you commit, the longer you have to take advantage of the benefits offered. Reach out to Sharon Markley Schreiber with inquiries: smarkleyschreiber@greaterbaltimore.org.

IEDC: Real Estate Development and Reuse
2021-11-04 - 2021-11-05 | MD
This course clearly articulates the eight stage process for real estate development and reuse. Specifically, course participants will learn the fundamentals of market and site analysis, financial feasibility, and what political considerations are required to move a development project from conception to realization. Additionally, this course will cover a wide variety of financing tools that are available at the local, regional, and state levels, including tax increment financing, bond financing, tax credits, tax abatements, land assembly, and brownfield redevelopment. Multiple in-class case studies will be used to help participants work through actual financial and regulatory problems.

Course Highlights:
• Housing, retail, office, industrial, hotel, and mixed use development
• The regulatory and approval process including zoning and permitting
• Assessing community involvement and political feasibility
• Public, private and nonprofit financial modeling
• Understanding the pro forma operating statement structure
• Property valuation and capitalization rates
• Brownfield redevelopment phase structure and liability
• Request for qualification/proposal process

Workforce Technical Training Grant Webinar
2021-11-09 09:00 - 10:00 | MD

FSC First Event: Accessing Valuable Partnerships
2021-11-10 10:00 - 11:00 | MD
The FOURTH session of the How to Get A Yes Series is happening on November 10th at 10 am. This FREE workshop will help small business owners identify which types of partnerships to seek assistance from including the FSC loan pool, and resources from the local (county), state, and federal levels. Guest speakers for this event include Malcolm Slovin with SCORE, and Alicia Moran with the Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation (PGCEDC).
The Capital Matters program is a free, virtual, seminar series that allows businesses to gain access to tips and strategies to convert financing needs into a successful loan application, and to gain access to complimentary counseling and technical assistance. In collaboration with the Prince George’s County Economic Development Program (PGCEDC), through this program, we hope this levels the playing field for companies who are committed to operating a sustainable business in Prince George’s County. Participating in the seminar series will give attendees access to subject matter experts who are open and willing to help businesses and their financing needs.
Additionally, for all sessions in the Capital Matters Series, there will be a 50% reduction on the loan application fee to anyone who submits a complete loan application (in accordance with our checklist) within 30 days of attending the FSC First-sponsored webinars.

FCS First Event: Preparing for Efficient Loan Closing
2021-11-17 10:00 - 11:00 | MD
If there is a loan closing in your future, there are important steps you can do now to be proactive and prepared. This workshop will help you avoid or reduce delays and keep the closing process moving forward.
After completion of this workshop, learners will have a better understanding of how the pitfalls that might be associated with the loan closing process and how to make sure that it goes smoothly.

For all sessions in the Capital Matters Series, there will be a 50% reduction on the loan application fee to anyone who submits a complete loan application (in accordance with our checklist) within 30 days of attending the FSC First-sponsored webinars. Contact us today for more information!

RMI Event: Sustainability in Manufacturing Virtual Conference
2021-12-01 08:15 - 11:00 | MD
There are substantial benefits for manufacturing companies to develop and invest in sustainability strategies. Operational efficiency, cost and waste reduction, workforce attraction, customer expansion, long term business viability, regulatory compliance and public trust are just some of them. And a commitment to sustainability not only directly impacts businesses but also the communities in which they operate and the world in which we live.
If sustainability is a long-range goal, but the costs seem unsustainable to your company, you’re not alone. You may think it’s unrealistic that your company can achieve sustainability, but you can, and our industry experts will show you how.
Wherever your company is on the sustainability path, join us to hear from local, national, and global manufacturing firm leaders who will help you move forward. Regardless of your company’s size, sector, or grasp of the subject matter, you’ll leave with practical strategies to begin or enhance your own journey to sustainability and positively impact the greater good.

IEDC: Foreign Direct Investment and Exporting
2021-12-02 - 2021-12-03 | MD
This course teaches the core components of bringing the world economy to your community’s front door. Foreign direct investment (FDI) and exporting are now essential components of a local economic development strategy. Attendees will learn how to attract foreign investors, from identifying targeted sectors to engaging new business. They will also explore how to facilitate exports in their community, with an emphasis on how existing federal and state programs can assist. The course will cover all aspects of doing business with foreign entities, from cultural differences to tax and financing issues.

Course Highlights:
• Understanding how the federal government specifically supports EDOs in pursuit of FDI and growing exports, especially among smallto medium-sized businesses
• In-depth coverage of how to make the most of trade shows and trade missions, including working with elected officials and dealing with the press
• Explanation of why an investor would be interested in setting up operations in the U.S., and the means by which they may undertake investment, from mergers and acquisitions to new greenfield development
• Private and public financing programs that ensure exporters of any size have access to capital and insurance
• How foreign business climates differ from that of the U.S., and how to navigate in new markets as well as welcome different cultures into your community
• Review of trade policy, including what steps can be taken if a company encounters trade barriers such as tariffs or unnecessary regulation

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.

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

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.

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!

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.
