Mentorship
Overview
The MEDA Mentorship Program is a structured, one-year program designed to foster professional growth and collaboration among Maryland’s economic development community. This program connects experienced professionals with emerging leaders, creating mutually beneficial relationships that provide guidance, fresh perspectives, and career development opportunities.
Each mentor-mentee pair is expected to fulfill the requirements outlined in the program framework, though there is flexibility in how those requirements are met. Participants will work toward defined goals set by the MEDA Professional Development Committee, ensuring a meaningful and goal-oriented experience. At the end of the year, pairs will submit a completed checklist and reflection, assessing achievements, growth areas, and program feedback.
Participants who successfully met program expectations may choose to extend their mentorship for a second year. Those who do not meet established goals may undergo a reevaluation or have their participation concluded. The checklist is self-managed and must be signed by both the mentor and mentee before submission to the MEDA Professional Development Committee Co-Chairs and MEDA team.
2025/2026 Cohort Timeline
The application period for the 2025/2026 MEDA Mentorship Program will open on April 27 at the 2025 MEDA Annual Conference, and applications are due August 1, 2025. The program will officially begin on September 1, 2025, and the end of year one will be August 1, 2026. Only 12 mentees will be selected for the 2025/2026 cohort.
Mentor/Mentee Matching
The MEDA Mentorship Program will carefully match mentors and mentees based on professional goals, experience, and areas of expertise to ensure a meaningful and productive relationship. Participants (mentors and mentees) must complete an application outlining their background and interests, and pairings are thoughtfully matched for alignment. Once matched, each pair participates in an initial meeting to establish goals, define expectations, and determine communication preferences.
Program Goals and Requirements
The MEDA Mentorship Program is designed to develop Maryland’s economic development leaders by equipping mentees with the knowledge, skills, and connections needed to excel in economic development. It fosters meaningful professional relationships by strengthening Maryland’s economic development network through mentorship, collaboration, and shared expertise. The program also enhances leadership and career growth by providing a structured framework for both mentors and mentees to refine leadership skills, set goals, and advance their careers.
To learn more about the mentee requirements and apply to the program, please click here.
To learn more about the mentor requirements and apply to the program, please click here.
