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Maryland Women’s Business Center Opens at Historic Savage Mill

Wednesday, August 21, 2024

On August 19th, the Maryland Women’s Business Center ​(MWBC), in partnership with the Howard County Economic Development Authority (HCEDA) and the County Executive’s office, celebrated a significant milestone with the grand opening and ribbon cutting of its newest location at Savage Mill. This event marks the launch of the second cohort of the Retail Incubator Program, an initiative that has now expanded to Savage Mill. The program provides a nurturing environment for women entrepreneurs to develop their retail businesses and gain market visibility. Situated in the historic and picturesque Savage Mill, the new incubator offers a unique space where creativity, business acumen, and community collaboration come together to foster the growth of women-owned businesses in Maryland.

 

A Historic Venue Meets Modern Entrepreneurship

Savage Mill, a historic cotton mill repurposed into a vibrant shopping, dining and event destination, serves as an ideal location for this cohort. The Mill is already home to a diverse array of artisan shops, galleries and local businesses, making it a natural fit for local female entrepreneurs. By establishing its new Retail Incubator at Savage Mill, the MWBC continues its commitment to empowering women and promoting economic growth in Maryland.

 

The Retail Incubator: A Launchpad for Success

The Retail Incubator Program at Savage Mill provides participating women-owned businesses with a retail space, mentorship and access to a supportive community. The incubator is designed to help these entrepreneurs overcome common challenges faced by small businesses, such as securing a physical location and attracting foot traffic. Through this program, women entrepreneurs have the opportunity to test their products, refine their business strategies and ultimately transition to running successful independent retail operations.

 

The incubator at Savage Mill offers more than just a physical space; it provides a platform for entrepreneurs to showcase their products to a broader audience. Savage Mill’s established reputation as a destination for unique shopping experiences ensures that these new businesses are exposed to a steady stream of potential customers. This exposure is crucial for entrepreneurs looking to build brand recognition and a loyal customer base.

 

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs

The expansion of the Retail Incubator Program to Savage Mill is a testament to the MWBC’s ongoing efforts to support and empower women entrepreneurs. The MWBC offers a range of services designed to help women at all stages of their entrepreneurial journey, from business planning and financial management to marketing and networking opportunities. By providing these resources, the MWBC aims to close the gender gap in business ownership and create a more equitable economic landscape.

 

The ribbon-cutting event on August 19th was more than just a celebration of the new space; it was a celebration of the entrepreneurial spirit that drives women to pursue their dreams, even in the face of challenges. The event brought together community leaders, business owners and supporters of women-owned businesses to recognize the importance of providing resources and opportunities for women to succeed in the competitive retail market.

HCEDA’s Commitment to Supporting Women Entrepreneurs

The HCEDA is delighted to support the Maryland Women’s Business Center in its new endeavor at Savage Mill. As a steadfast advocate for local entrepreneurs, the HCEDA is committed to fostering a supportive business environment where women-owned businesses can flourish. Our team is always available to offer resources, guidance and assistance to help women entrepreneurs achieve their aspirations and contribute to the economic growth of our community. We are proud to collaborate with the MWBC and look forward to continuing our efforts to empower and uplift the remarkable women driving the future of business in Howard County.

The Power of Community Support

With the opening of its new location at Savage Mill, the MWBC is poised to continue making a significant impact on the lives of women entrepreneurs in Maryland. The Retail Incubator Program at Savage Mill is not only a space for business growth but also a symbol of the power of community support in fostering entrepreneurship. As more women take advantage of the resources and opportunities provided by the MWBC, the ripple effects will be felt throughout the local economy, contributing to job creation, innovation and economic resilience.

 

The MWBC’s commitment to expanding its services and creating opportunities for women entrepreneurs is an inspiring example of how targeted support can drive meaningful change. As the Retail Incubator Program at Savage Mill continues to grow, it will undoubtedly serve as a beacon of success for women-owned businesses in Maryland and beyond.

 

For women entrepreneurs looking to join this thriving community, the MWBC at Savage Mill offers not just a retail space, but a launchpad for turning dreams into reality. The August 19th ribbon-cutting marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the MWBC, Savage Mill and the many women-owned businesses that will flourish in this dynamic environment.

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