Maryland Launches Online Tool to Map State’s Defense Spending

By Sandy Dubay | Mar 30, 2017

Maryland Defense Network will help companies expand customer base

BALTIMORE, MD (March 29, 2017) – The Maryland Department of Commerce today announced the launch of the Maryland Defense Network, an interactive online tool that maps defense spending in the state. Maryland is typically among the top 10 states in the nation for defense spending, ranking 6th for fiscal year 2016. The Maryland Defense Network helps companies expand and diversify their customer base, identify opportunities to partner with prime contractors, and gain information on expiring Department of Defense (DoD) contracts.

“The defense sector is an important component of Maryland’s economy, with the Department of Defense awarding more than $13.4 billion to Maryland companies in 2016 alone,” said Maryland Commerce Secretary Mike Gill. “The Maryland Defense Network is a valuable tool for defense contractors, companies interested in competing in the defense community – and for economic developers and policy makers – and helps our businesses stay in sync with evolving defense priorities.”

Created with input from regional focus groups, including economic development professionals, industry partners, and defense contractors, the Maryland Defense Network is accessible through a secure website, MarylandDefenseNetwork.org. Registering with Maryland Defense Network offers several advantages, including:

  • Small and mid-sized businesses will appear in searches conducted by prime defense contractors, gaining broad exposure and access to subcontracting opportunities;
  • Prime contractors may use the network to develop a pool of potential subcontractors to satisfy contract obligations;
  • Companies of all sizes are able to directly connect with defense agencies to compete for contracts; and
  • Economic development professionals and research analysts are able to explore the impact of defense spending in Maryland, as well as other data.

The project, funded through a grant from the DoD’s Office of Economic Adjustment to the Maryland Department of Commerce, was developed in partnership with Towson University’s Regional Economic Studies Institute (RESI). Maryland Commerce and Towson University will host a free webinar on Thursday, March 30, at 9:00 a.m., detailing how to participate in and derive the most benefit from the Maryland Defense Network.

About Maryland Commerce

The Maryland Department of Commerce stimulates private investment and creates jobs by attracting new businesses, encouraging the expansion and retention of existing companies, and providing financial assistance to Maryland companies. The Department promotes the State’s many economic advantages and markets local products and services at home and abroad to spur economic development and international investment, trade and tourism. Because they are major economic generators, the Department also supports the arts, film production, sports and other special events. For more information, visit commerce.maryland.gov.

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Media Contact:
Maureen Kilcullen
Maureen.kilcullen@maryland.gov
(410) 767-1794

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