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HCEDA hosts Maryland Department of Commerce’s Howard County Collaboration Roundtable with Secretary Kelly M. Schulz

Monday, September 16, 2019

Howard County Economic Development Authority (HCEDA) hosted the Maryland Department of Commerce’s Howard County Collaboration Roundtable with Secretary Kelly M. Schulz at the Innovation Center to facilitate a collective discussion around economic development initiatives and partnerships with local leadership officials. The roundtable was part of Secretary Schulz’ statewide tour to hear of the opportunities and challenges present in each county regarding economic development.

“I am excited to visit Howard County’s new Innovation Center, which provides an outstanding space for small businesses and entrepreneurs to collaborate, share ideas, and access support and resources,” said Maryland Commerce Secretary Kelly M. Schulz. “With the new soft-landing program for global companies, the Center plays an important role in growing Maryland’s economy through international investment and trade.”

HCEDA’s CEO, Larry Twele discussed the resources available to Howard County businesses through the Innovation Center including small business lending through the Catalyst Fund, agriculture grant programs administered by HCEDA, and small business counselling through Maryland’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC), Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE), and Maryland Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC). The Innovation Center is also home to Howard Community College’s Charles I. Ecker Training Center.

The roundtable, held at the Innovation Center, provided a forum for Secretary Schulz to connect with Howard County leadership and officials and hear of their opportunities and challenges, collaborate on a collective vision for Commerce, and further existing partnerships with the County and local economic development organizations.

“HCEDA provides ongoing assistance to Howard County companies as they navigate the business assistance, retention, and attraction services with the Maryland Department of Commerce,” said Lawrence Twele, CEO of HCEDA. “It was a pleasure to host Secretary Schulz, the County Executive, and other officials at the Innovation Center to discuss the programs, services, and new ways we will support the region’s business community in collaboration with the Maryland Department of Commerce.”

As part of the roundtable, Leonardo McClarty, CEO of Howard County Chamber of Commerce presented an overview of the Chamber’s offerings to its members which include advocacy, strategic connections, and access to timely information. “The Howard County Chamber is pleased to have Secretary Schulz visit us and to see the latest innovative activities coming from our small business and entrepreneurial community,” said CEO and President Leonardo McClarty. “Communities thrive out of continued partnerships between local and state entities.”

Two days prior, County Executive Calvin Ball visited the Innovation Center for the Lt. Governor’s tour of the Center led by HCEDA’s CEO, Larry Twele. The County Executive continues to show his commitment to the Innovation Center as HCEDA continues to make progress on the project.

As HCEDA continues to make progress on the Innovation Center, the project has gained the attention of local, state, and federal officials who are interested in utilizing the space. The Innovation Center continues to provide a new central and exciting place for professionals in the region.

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