Year in review

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Letter from the GovernorMEDA Year-Round PartnersMEDA wishes to thank all of our year-round partners for their generous support.

Platinum:

Dear Friends:

Welcome to the Annual Conference of the Maryland Economic Development Association. This year’s theme, Research to Revenue—Harnessing Maryland’s Intellectual Capital for Economic Growth, exemplifies the efforts my Administration has made over the past eight years to foster and grow Maryland’s economy. In Maryland, through good economic times and bad, we are making the right choices and smart investments that propel us forward.

When we took office in 2007, we inherited a $1.7 billion structural deficit. No sooner had we taken action to address that deficit, than the recession hit. Since then, we have used the challenge of these times to make our government more efficient and effective. We held budget growth to the lowest levels in a generation and we remain one of only seven states to have maintained a AAA bond rating from all three ratings agencies during the recession.

Seven years later, we are not just One Maryland, but by many measures, we are Number One Maryland: number one in holding down the cost of college tuition; number one in innovation and entrepreneurship for two years in a row, according to the United States Chamber of Commerce; number one in businesses owned by women; and number one in median household income.

This is what the people of our state have achieved together and we will continue to work as One Maryland to strengthen and grow the middle class. Through innovative technologies and the rise of jobs in cybersecurity and engineering, we will build a stronger, more resilient future for the next generation.

Thank you so much for your hard work and your support.

Sincerely,

Governor Martin O’Malley

Martin o’MalleyGovernor, State of Maryland

M&T Bank Miles & Stockbridge P.C.

Maryland Department of Business & Economic Development

Maryland Economic Development Corporation (MEDCO)

Baltimore Business Journal

The Canton Group

Digital Bard

Maryland Association of Counties (MACo)

Anne Arundel Economic Development Corporation

Baltimore County Department of Economic & Workforce Development

Carroll County Department of Economic Development

Comcast

Harford County Office of Economic Development

Maryland Department of Housing & Community Development

Montgomery County Department of Economic Development

Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation

Towson University

Allegany County Department of Economic & Community Development

Baltimore Gas & Electric Company

Cecil County Office of Economic Development

Charles County Economic Development Department

City of Baltimore Development Corporation

The City of Bowie

The Daily Record

Economic Alliance of Greater Baltimore

Frederick County Business Development & Retention Division

Garrett County Department of Economic Development

Howard County Economic Development Authority

The Jacob France Institute, University of Baltimore

Maryland Department of Labor, Licensing & Regulation (DLLR)

Maryland Department of Planning

Maryland Technology Development Corporation (TEDCO)

Maryland Transit Administration

The Patuxent Partnership

University of Maryland

Verizon

Washington County Department of Business Development

Gold:

in kind:

Silver:

Bronze:

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Letter from the Secretary Message from MEDA’s PreSident

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Dear Economic Development Partners:

Welcome to the Annual Conference of the Maryland Economic Development Association. It is a pleasure to be here with you again as we work together to build a better, brighter future for our State.

The 2014 legislative session set the stage for a productive year. Governor O’Malley proposed and the Legislature approved a major recapitalization of the Maryland Economic Development Assistance Authority and Fund, or MEDAAF. Our primary financial incentive program, MEDAAF supported the expansion of the Volvo facility in Hagerstown, helped bring Amazon to Baltimore, and funded the renovation of the headquarters of Piedmont Airlines in Salisbury, to name a few. The $7.4 million in general funds allocated to MEDAAF will allow us to undertake even more worthy economic development projects around the State.

The budget included more than $30 million total to support Maryland tourism and arts organizations across the state. Tax credits that spur investment in our young biotechnology and cybersecurity companies were expanded, as was the Research and Development Tax Credit. The R&D credit is used in nearly every county in the State and helps keep Maryland companies large and small ahead of competitors the world over. In 2012, more than half of the companies that claimed the credit had fewer than 100 employees. Fifty-seven of the companies had fewer than 25.

This year, the Small, Minority and Women-Owned Business Account will have $11 million to make small business loans. As the program continues to receive 1.5 percent of video lottery terminal revenue, there will be additional funds available to help Maryland small businesses.

The Maryland Venture Fund continues to invest at a vigorous clip thanks to the infusion of funding raised through InvestMaryland. And next month, the second InvestMaryland Challenge will award more than $700,000 in prizes to an impressive slate of young Maryland companies developing concussion sensors, cloud computing security systems, web marketing solutions and other technologies that keep us safer, healthier and better connected than ever before. They are a testament to the culture of innovation and entrepreneurship that we have long cultivated in Maryland.

Thank you for your help and support as we work toward our common goals of jobs and opportunity for every Marylander. I look forward to much continued, shared success in the coming year.

Sincerely,

Dominick MurraySecretary

Dear Economic Development Partners:

It has been an honor to serve as president of MEDA this past year. I have found it a rewarding experience and am particularly proud of the leadership that you elected to serve alongside me and those who led our various committees. I think you will agree, you belong to a very vibrant and strong organization that values our members and recognizes the value you bring to the state, our regions, our counties, and our local communities.

MEDA has at its core a very strong professional development program that every member can benefit from. Over the last year, we saw record numbers of members access the course offerings we developed internally and those our partners brought into the state. Our conference topics provided a wide variety of discussion topics, such as placemaking, the impact of aviation on Maryland’s economy, and our annual legislative outlook. Economic Development Week proved so successful that it has become an annual event that will see many more years of action. We expanded partnerships that add value to the MEDA membership experience, and our sought-after awards recognition program continues to set the bar for top quality economic development projects and individuals.

In short, we carried on the tradition of rock solid service to our members and hit our stride as a cohesive unit working together to send the message that economic development is a valuable necessity. We continue to build an organization that recognizes our members, who work in the trenches every day to retain and grow jobs for Marylanders, for the proven leaders they are.

I want to thank everyone who served on the MEDA board, the staff, and you, the members. This is your organization, so please feel free to reach out to me to share any thoughts you have on improving the organization and its services to you.

Sincerely,

Lawrence F. Twele, CEcD MEDA President

Lawrence F. twele, CecDDominick e. Murray

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Immediate Past President

MEDA BoarD oF DireCtors & CoMMittees

Lawrence F. twele, CecD President & CEO, Howard County Economic Development Authority

Keasha n. Haythe, CecD Director, Dorchester County Economic Development

Kimberly a. Clark Executive Vice President, Baltimore Development Corporation

sean M. Looney Vice President, State Government Affairs, Comcast

richard J. Morgan (ex-officio), Market President, sandy spring Bank

Laureen M. Boyer, CecD Executive Director, Rockville Economic Development, Inc. (REDI)

rhonda J. ray (ex-officio),Maryland Department of Business & Economic Development

The MEDA Awards Committee recognizes the exemplary contributions our members make every day to improve the quality of life in Maryland. The awards are designed to reward MEDA members and their partners for their efforts to attract new businesses, assist existing businesses, redevelop business districts, market communities, and support workforce development initiatives, tourism, and agriculture. The MEDA Awards recognize achievement in:

• Economic Development Projects/Programs• Economic Development Redevelopment Projects/Programs• Economic Development Marketing

Each year, MEDA also selects a Life Member, a Volunteer of the Year, and an inductee to the Hall of Fame.

We would like to thank the following committee members:

Michael Day, Economic Development Director, Town of BerlinCarol Gilbert, Assistant Secretary, Maryland Department of Housing & Community DevelopmentJill Frick, Economic Development Manager, City of CumberlandMarcia Keeth, Business Development Manager for Retention & Expansion, Charles County Economic Development DepartmentMatt neitzey, CecD, Executive Director, Prince George’s County Convention & Visitors Bureauscott warner, Executive Director, Mid-Shore Regional Council

awards Committee Chair (left): renee M. winsky President & CEO, Leadership Maryland

awards Committee Co-Chair (right): Brian P. Darmody Associate Vice President, Corporate and Foundation Relations, University of Maryland

President

Awards Committee

The Business Development Committee connects MEDA with funding partners who invest in the organization’s mission and vision for Maryland’s future. This effort yields the financial support that allows MEDA to provide quality programs at cost effective rates.

As Maryland’s only economic development association, MEDA has evolved into a powerful force, providing valuable benefits and services to its members and partners. Today, our vibrant membership holds key leadership positions in local and regional economic development organizations, as well as cabinet-level positions in state agencies. Our members work for virtually all of the state’s 23 counties and the City of Baltimore, leading private companies and non-profit agencies, all of whom have a stake in Maryland’s prosperity.

Our partners recognize that MEDA members propel Maryland’s economic success. As a result, they view MEDA as a valuable networking and training resource for the economic development community. MEDA sponsorship benefits include access to this diverse group of members and partnership with an organization strategically positioned to heighten your visibility in Maryland.

We would like to thank the following committee members:

robert Brennan, Executive Director, MEDCOKwasi Holman, Executive Director, Charles County Economic Development Department sean M. Looney, Vice President, State Government Affairs, ComcastLisa webb, Executive Director, Cecil County Economic Development

Business development Chair (left): John r. DevinePrincipal, Miles & Stockbridge P.C.

Business development Co-Chair (right): Joshua e. neiman Director of Business Development, MEDCO

Business Development Committee

Treasurer

Finance Officer Legislative Liaison

Vice President Secretary

“ We carried on the

tradition of rock

solid service to our

members and hit our

stride as a cohesive unit

working together to

send the message that

economic development

is a valuable necessity.”

– Lawrence F. Twele, CEcD MEDA President

eXeCutive Board:

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Professional development Committee Chair (left): Heather Gramm, CecD, Director of Regional Growth and Retention, Maryland Department of Business & Economic Development

Professional development Committee Co-Chair (right): Lara Fritts, CecD, President & CEO, Annapolis Economic Development Corp.

Lofton Scholarship Fund

The Lofton Scholarship Fund makes tuition payments available to members for their professional skills development needs. The fund, one of the primary benefits of membership, is available for economic development courses with an emphasis on certification and re-certification, including courses offered by MEDA.

Lofton funds are available to all MEDA members in good standing. To apply for funds, members must submit electronically a letter of interest, a resume, and an employer’s recommendation. Cost of tuition is reimbursed after a receipt and a copy of a course completion certificate are presented to MEDA. Please visit the MEDA website at www.medamd.com for more information.

We would like to thank the following committee members:Michael S. Lofton, CEcDDyan Brasington, CEcD David Edgerley Heather Gramm, CEcDRobert McGlotten, CEcDRichard Story, CEcDTimothy Troxell, CEcD

Professional Development Committee

The Program Development Committee plans quarterly conferences with great enthusiasm, creating content, securing speakers, and coordinating logistics. They also support MEDA’s Vice President in the development of the Annual Conference. Members of this committee may also serve on the Economic Development Week sub-committee. This year, the committee delivered conferences ranging in such broad topics as Maryland’s infrastructure, placemaking, legislative outlook for economic development, and the impact of aviation on economic development in Maryland.

Committee members understand the practice of economic development and its partner disciplines, maintain a network of speaker contacts, and dedicate the time required to develop quality programs. Committee members are also representative of the various regions of our state and guide programming in a direction that will benefit all members.

We would like to thank the following committee members:

Pradeep Ganguly, Executive Vice President, Prince George’s County Economic Development CorporationBonnie Green, Executive Director, The Patuxent Partnershiprichard Griffin, CecD, Director of Economic Development, City of FrederickMichael Koch, Economic Development Director, Garrett CountyMerry Mears, Deputy Director, Worcester County Economic Developmentamy seitz, Director, Community Access & Partnership, Maryland Department of Housing & Community DevelopmentJohn wasilisin, Assistant Director, Maryland TEDCO

Program development Committee Chair (left): Paige r. Bethke, Director, Talbot County Office of Economic Development

Program development Committee Co-Chair (right): James C. richardson, Director, Harford County Economic Development

Program Development Committee

The MEDA Professional Development Committee assists members in pursuit of their educational goals. The committee delivers courses enabling members to become Certified Economic Developers (CEcD) and other courses enhancing professional skills. This committee also oversees the delivery of three IEDC courses in Maryland every year, mentors potential certification candidates, and works to include other courses throughout the year. The Chair of the Professional Development Committee also serves on the Lofton Scholarship Selection Committee (see Lofton Scholarship Fund). This year the Professional Development Committee delivered courses in social media at two locations around the state, offered a webinar in research trends, and saw the 10th year of the Basic Economic Development Course – a five-day course for those starting in the field.

This year the committee began in earnest to offer confidential mentoring services to those who are interested in achieving certification in economic development (CEcD). Members of MEDA are encouraged to either reach out directly to anyone on the committee or to contact staff for a recommendation.

We would like to thank the following committee members:

sharon Disque, CecD, Business Services Coordinator, City of GaithersburgLinda ellerton, CecD, Business Development Manager, BioMaryland Centerroger venezia, CecD, Director of Operations & Special Projects, Maryland Department of Business & Economic DevelopmentHelga weschke, CecD, Deputy Director, Baltimore County Department of Economic Development

MEDA BoarD oF DireCtors & CoMMittees

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membership Committee Chair: Daniel (Danny) K. thompson, Executive Director, Somerset County Economic Development Commission

Membership Committee

The MEDA Council of Past Presidents is a leadership team that shares their expertise in economic development with members seeking peer-to-peer mentorship on a confidential basis.

The council consists of former MEDA presidents who are available to consult on a targeted project or on a broad issue affecting an economic development program. The combined experience of the council members enables them to provide the flexible, supportive, and results-oriented service most needed by members today. These services are complementary to our members and their colleagues.

The services our council provides include but are not limited to:

• Benchmarking• Best Practices• Staff Training• Strategic Planning

To contact the MEDA Council of Past Presidents, please send an e-mail to info@medamd.com.

Council of Past Presidents

The MEDA Membership Committee works to provide excellent customer service to our members. They act as a liaison between members and the board of directors, survey members on a regular basis to obtain their opinions about services that are being provided, offer additional networking opportunities throughout the year, and host a New Members Reception at the Annual Conference.

MEDA members, nearly 500 strong and growing, are invested in job creation and improving the state’s business climate. Members can turn to the board, staff, or anyone serving on the Membership Committee to share their ideas and provide input into the organization. Members are also encouraged to become involved with MEDA, and the Membership Committee is there to help you decide how you can participate. Our Membership Committee is always looking for new ways to provide benefits for our members including partnering with similar organizations for shared services.

We would like to thank the following committee members:

sherman Coleman, Business Development Specialist, Frederick County Office of Economic Developmentshawn Hershberger, Economic Development Coordinator, City of CumberlandJoyce La Padula, Executive Assistant to the Secretary, Maryland Department of Business & Economic DevelopmentDoris Mason, Executive Director, Upper Shore Regional CouncilJerry t. sanford, Business Recruitment and Location Services, Division of Business and Enterprise Development, Maryland Department of Business & Economic DevelopmentLinda vassallo, Director, Calvert County Department of Economic Development

The MEDA Foundation is the vehicle through which courses, conferences, and training are offered to Maryland’s economic development community. These offerings help members acquire knowledge and build the partnerships essential to job creation and community development.

We would like to thank the following foundation members: Laurie Boyer, CEcD, Chair William Badger Lara Fritts, CEcD Keasha Haythe, CEcDRobert McGlotten, CEcD Richard MorganRichard Story, CEcD, FM

MEDA enhances the knowledge & skills of its members and encourages

partnerships & networking among

people committed to bringing

jobs & capital investment to Maryland.

Pamela J. ruff (ex-officio) Margaret a. Bollhorst (staff) sandy sponaugle, Platinum PR

Executive DirectorMembership Services Coordinator

Communications & Awards Coordinator

MEDA Staff

MEDA Foundation

MEDA BoarD oF DireCtors & CoMMittees

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MEDA MeMBers

MEDA members work throughout the state and share the common goal of improving the state’s business climate. Members come from several diverse groups:

• Private sector professionals with an interest in economic development.

• State officials involved in economic development, workforce development, community development, land planning, minority business, the environment, and other key areas.

• Local public sector employees involved in economic development programs in counties and municipalities.

• Other members include national and international economic development leaders, transportation leaders, business consultants, and educators.

To learn how you can become a member visit www.medamd.com.

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MEDA Partners

anne arundel eConomiC develoPment CorPoration Anne Arundel County is home to

BWI Marshall Airport, Fort George G. Meade, the National Security Agency, U.S. Cyber Command and over 18 other federal agencies in addition to approximately 13,000 busi-nesses and a thriving community of entrepreneurs and innovators. The mission of the Anne Arundel Economic Development Corporation (AAEDC) is to support business and serve as a catalyst for business growth in Anne Arundel County, thereby increasing job opportunities, expanding the tax base and improving the quality of life. By providing investment and technical assistance and fostering community revitalization initiatives, the AAEDC plays a vital role in enhancing commercial districts, improving county infrastruc-ture, increasing agriculture-based business and promoting high-value sectors such as technology and national security.

m&t BankM&T Bank’s Mid-Atlantic headquarters is located in Baltimore. Since its founding in 1856, M&T Bank has built its business through a tradition of reliability, consistency, and responsiveness to the needs of customers. Nowhere are these qualities more evident than in the bank’s long-standing commitment to businesses. M&T Bank is one of the top 20 banks in the country, but operates as a community bank with a long tradition of sound management and corporate citizenship. M&T has more than 700 M&T Bank branches and over 1,500 M&T Bank ATMs throughout Maryland, District of Columbia, Virginia, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and New York.

mileS & StoCkBridGe P.C.Miles & Stockbridge P.C. is a leading, full-service law firm with offices across Maryland and in Northern Virginia and Washing-ton, D.C. Our comprehensive business and litigation experi-ence includes practices focused on public finance, real estate, corporate and securities matters, government contracts and intellectual property. We also focus on the key industries in which our clients do business, including manufacturing and distribution, real estate, and finance and capital markets. Across all practices and industries, we work to create and preserve value by helping clients solve their most important problems.

On an international level, Miles & Stockbridge advises U.S. and multi-national corporations on their transactional, investment and trade concerns worldwide. We also have long-standing relationships representing non-U.S. companies in direct invest-ment and general business activities in Maryland, across the country and throughout North America. To support these efforts, our firm is the Maryland member of TerraLex®, one of the largest international law firm networks.

maryland dePartment of BuSineSS and eConomiC develoPment (dBed)Maryland’s one-stop economic development shop strives to attract new businesses, stimulate private investment, encour-age the expansion and retention of existing companies and provide Maryland businesses with workforce training and financial assistance. The Department markets local products and services at home and abroad.

Strongly focused on innovation and entrepreneurship, the Maryland business environment is strategically positioned to maximize its leadership roles in key industries – biosciences, cyber security, energy and sustainability. Both small and established companies benefit from the state’s talented workforce and dynamic assets fueling innovation. For more information, visit www.ChooseMaryland.org.

maryland eConomiC develoPment CorPoration (medCo)The Maryland Economic Development Corporation (MEDCO) assists in the expansion, modernization, and retention of existing Maryland business and attracts new business to the state. Businesses seeking to expand or relocate into Maryland regularly turn to MEDCO as a resource. MEDCO also assists, upon request, local jurisdiction projects. MEDCO borrows money and issues bonds for the purpose of providing financial assistance. MEDCO’s projects seek to increase productive employment in Maryland and expand the State’s economy and tax base.

Platinum: Gold: Silver:

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ComCaStComcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA, CMCSK) is a global media and technology company with two

primary businesses, Comcast Cable and NBCUniversal. Comcast Cable is the nation’s largest video, high-speed Internet and phone provider to residential customers under the XFINITY brand and also provides these services to businesses. NBCUniversal operates 30 news, entertainment and sports cable networks, the NBC and Telemundo broadcast networks, television production operations, television station groups, Universal Pictures and Universal Parks and Resorts. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information.

Harford County offiCe of eConomiC develoPmentThe Harford County Office of Economic Development (OED) offers programs and services to stimulate job

creation and enhance the county’s quality of life in a business-friendly environment. OED utilizes Harford County’s strategic mid-Atlantic location, “Fast Track” permitting capabilities, workforce and financial programs to attract, grow and sustain businesses. The county’s technology incubator program includes the Harford Business Innovation Center (HBIC), the new Ground Floor at Harford, a community-driven workspace and collaboration center for independent software application development. Harford’s Business Edge provides a partnership of local resources for entrepreneurs and business owners. For information on OED programs and services, visit www.harfordbusiness.org.

maryland dePartment of HouSinG and Community develoPment (dHCd)The Maryland Department of Housing and Community

Development is at the forefront in implementing housing policy that promotes and preserves homeownership and affordable rental housing, and in creating innovative community development initiatives. In fiscal year 2014, DHCD invested more than $737 million for homeownership programs, special needs housing, rental housing and services, and neighborhood revitalization. For more information on DHCD’s programs, visit www.mdhousing.org.

montGomery County dePartment of eConomiC develoPmentThe Montgomery County Depart-

ment of Economic Development creates and administers pro-grams that support and grow our diverse business community,

Baltimore County dePartment of eConomiC & WorkforCe develoPmentBaltimore County is home to an exceptionally diverse business

community of more than 20,000 companies which can be found in corporate or industrial campuses throughout. Major corporations include McCormick, Stanley Black & Decker DYI, AAI, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, Dunbar Armor, General Dynamics IT and many more. The Social Security Administration and The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services are headquartered in the County, together employing nearly 16,000 employees. Two business incubators support small technology based firms particularly in the areas of cybersecurity, tech-ed and biotechnology. The Baltimore County Economic & Workforce Development team is focused on providing exceptional services to the business community and with the focus demand driven workforce programs and services. Our target employment sectors are cyber, health IT, healthcare, corporate services, distribution and logistics, and advanced manufacturing.

Carroll County dePartment of eConomiC develoPment

A diverse and positive business climate facilitates the creation and expansion of companies in Carroll County. With unique programs like the Carroll Business Path and Enterprise Carroll, the Carroll County Department of Economic Development dedicates resources to support growth in corporate headquarters, high-tech manufacturing, agriculture, information technology, bioscience and professional and business services firms. Investments in quality business parks and a 112 mile county-owned fiber optic network help growing businesses accommodate their space needs and expand their global market potential. Carroll’s unique location in the Baltimore metropolitan region provides for convenient access to national and international markets. For more information, visit www.carrollbiz.org and follow us on Twitter @CarrollEconDev.

MEDA Partners

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expand the county’s economic base and provide employment opportunities for residents. Through our Montgomery County Business Innovation Network, Agriculture Reserve, Small Business Mentorship and Small Business Empowerment pro-grams, Workforce Services and Strategic Financing programs, we stand ready to assist businesses at all stages of growth. To learn more, contact the department at 240-777-2000, e-mail us at ded.info@montgomerycountymd.gov or visit www.ChooseMontgomeryMD.com.

PrinCe GeorGe’S County eConomiC develoPment CorPoration (edC)The Prince George’s County

Economic Development Corporation (EDC) promotes the county regionally and globally. The EDC provides the right combination of investment incentives and business services to help attract, retain and expand businesses, create high-quality jobs, and expand Prince George’s County’s commercial tax base. The EDC is committed to making Prince George’s County the location of choice in the National Capital Region for growing and expanding businesses, and a major regional force in economic development.

toWSon univerSityMake Towson University your next economic development partner! We have expertise in forecasting

economic conditions and analyzing economic impacts; conducting workforce and commuter analyses; conducting a wide variety of green economy studies; calculating ROI; developing mobile websites and applications; developing mobile websites and applications; developing geographic information systems to display and analyze data; marketing and hosting conferences; developing integrated marketing plans; business incubation services; and providing staff development and training programs.

Contact Dyan Brasington (dbrasington@towson.edu) or Dr. Daraius Irani (dirani@towson.edu) to learn more about Towson University’s entrepreneurial initiatives and economic development programs.

Stay in touch with the Regional Economic Studies Institute (RESI) on Twitter (@RESI_TU). Learn more about the annual RESI Economic Outlook Conference at www.towson.edu/conference.

MEDA Partners

alleGany CountyWhat makes Allegany County the smart choice? We offer a pro-busi-ness environment, a strong and

productive workforce, developable land, a diverse economy with both traditional and progressive products and services, beautiful and revitalized downtown areas, and a quality of life that is second to none.

The Allegany County Department of Economic & Commu-nity Development is dedicated to retention and expansion, as well as to the development of new businesses. For more information, visit www.alleganyworks.org.

Baltimore GaS & eleC-triC ComPany (BGe)BGE, headquartered in Baltimore, is Maryland’s largest gas and

electric utility, delivering power to more than 1.2 million electric customers and more than 655,000 natural gas customers in Central Maryland. The company’s approxi-mately 3,400 employees are committed to the safe and reliable delivery of gas and electricity, as well as enhanced energy management, conservation, environmental steward-ship and community assistance.

CeCil County offiCe of eConomiC develoPment Located in the northeast corner of Maryland, Cecil County is in close proximity to the Philadelphia, Wilmington, and Baltimore metro-

politan areas, and is home to a host of world-class companies including W.L. Gore and Associates, Terumo Medical, ATK, DuPont, GE, and IKEA. The mission of the Cecil County Office of Economic Development (OED) is to stimulate economic growth and job creation through the expansion of the County’s existing business and agricultural base, attrac-tion of new business and the development of tourism. The Cecil County OED assists prospects with site selection, fast-track permitting, Enterprise Zone tax credits, and securing necessary funds needed to bring their business to Cecil County. For more information on how to bring your business to Cecil County, visit www.cecilbusiness.org.

Bronze:

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CHarleS CountyCentrally located in the heart of the Washington/Baltimore/Richmond metropolitan areas, Charles County is the ideal place to locate or expand

your business. The County offers abundant available office space and business and employment parks to suit any need, as well as a business-friendly government. At the same time, Charles County is one of the state’s most scenic counties, with hundreds of miles of shoreline, open space, scenic parks, history, and agricultural and maritime heritages. For more information, visit www.meetcharlescounty.com.

City of Baltimore develoPment CorPoration

The Baltimore Development Corporation, under contract with the City of Baltimore, acts as a catalyst in the creation of a robust and sustainable economy. Our mission is to retain and expand existing business, attract new business, promote thriving retail districts, and support the cultural resources and assets that enrich our city. Our economic development and service expertise covers a broad range of activities. We are a liaison between business owners and city agencies advocating for the interests of our employers. We work with business owners to shepherd private development projects through public processes, saving time and mitigating expense. We are even developers, facilitating the reuse of publicly owned property for new and expanding businesses.

City of BoWieLocated 20 minutes from Annapo-lis, Maryland or Washington, D.C., and 30 minutes from Baltimore, Bowie has grown from a small agricultural and railroad town into

one of the five largest cities in Maryland. Now occupying 18 square miles, Bowie’s great location is enhanced by a superb quality of life. Bowie boasts a minor league baseball stadium, heritage museums, the Bowie Center for the Performing Arts, an Old Town historic and shopping district, and over 2,000 acres of parks, as well as excellent shopping malls and retail centers. To find out what Bowie has to offer, contact John Henry King at 301-809-3042.

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MEDA PartnersBoasting a solid workforce and affordable real estate, Garrett County blends modern conveniences with country living. Efficient by design, our technology and transportation infra-structure redefine rural life, offering convenience and proximity to key markets.

In Garrett County, we continue to redefine what it means to live, work and play in a rural community. The Garrett County Department of Economic Development invites you to come see for yourself what we have to offer. If you’re interested in locating a business or moving to Garrett County, please visit us at www.gcedonline.com.

HoWard County eConomiC develoPment autHority

The Howard County Economic Development Authority (HCEDA) is a public-private partnership whose primary goal is to promote economic growth and stability by supporting existing businesses, targeting new businesses and attracting corporate and regional headquarters. The HCEDA is the catalyst for economic growth and sustainability in Howard County. To find out more about us, visit www.hceda.org. Howard County: where talent drives innovation.

ThE DAILy RECORDThe Daily Record is Maryland’s statewide trusted news resource for more than 125 years featuring the latest business, law, and government

news. When business happens in Maryland, it’s on the record – The Daily Record. Visit TheDailyRecord.com for breaking news, blogs, special publications, networking calendar, event information and premium subscriber access. Sign up to receive free daily email news alerts and breaking news as it happens. Plus, sign up to receive our free jobs, real estate, solo and small firm, and auction enewsletters. Text DailyRecord to 444888 to receive breaking news on your cell phone.

eConomiC allianCe of Greater BaltimoreThe EAGB is a regional economic

development partnership comprised of business executives, elected government officials and leaders from higher educa-tion, focused on marketing Greater Baltimore as a world-class region in which to live, work, learn and invest. For more information, go to http://www.GreaterBaltimore.org.

frederiCk County BuSineSS develoPment and retentionThe mission of Frederick County Business Development and Reten-tion is to increase the overall

economic health of Frederick County through attracting new businesses in our targeted industries and helping existing businesses be more successful. For more information, visit www.discoverfrederickmd.com.

Garrett County dePartment of eConomiC develoPment Garrett County Department of Economic Development is Rein-

venting What it Means to Be Rural. Nestled in the moun-tains of Western Maryland, Garrett County features high elevations along with higher opportunities for prosperity. Lured by an abundance of resources and natural beauty, over 900 businesses elevate their workforce, and profit margins, in Garrett County.

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maryland tranSit adminiStrationThe Maryland Transit Administra-tion (MTA) is a division of the

Maryland Department of Transportation and one of the largest multi-modal transit systems in the nation. Driven by passenger safety, convenience and affordability, MTA serves more than 107 million riders every year. MTA operates Local Bus, Metro Subway, Light Rail, MARC Train, Commuter Bus and Mobil-ity paratransit services. The agency also directs funding and technical support to Locally Operated Transit Systems in each of Maryland’s 23 counties, as well as Annapolis, Baltimore City and Ocean City. The MTA vision is to meet the highest stan-dards of customer satisfaction by providing safe, dependable and efficient public transportation throughout Maryland. For more about how to connect with MTA, we invite you to visit us at mta.maryland.gov, connect with us on social media or call 410-539-5000.

tHe PatuXent PartnerSHiPThe Patuxent Partnership works with government, industry and academia on initiatives in science and tech-nology, hosts programs of interest

to NAVAIR and the broader DoD community, and supports workforce development including education initiatives and professional development. Visit www.paxpartnership.org.

univerSity of marylandThe University of Maryland, College

Park is the state’s largest university and one of the nation’s top public research universities. Ranked in the top 20 of public research universities in the U.S., the University of Maryland wins over $500 million annually in research and development awards. With operations in all 24 jurisdictions in the state, the University’s statewide economic impact is estimated at more than $3.4 billion annually. Kiplinger’s named UM a top ten value in public higher education.

The University manages the state’s Small Business Development Center Network, a thriving technology incubator, the state’s largest research park, and economic development services, including the Dingman Center

MEDA PartnerstHe JaCoB franCe inStituteNon-partisan research exploring the dynamics and impacts of economic, real estate, and workforce develop-ment decisions.

JFI serves as a leading source of high quality statistical research and information on business, economic and workforce policies, and investment decisions. JFI works with public, private, and nonprofit clients to provide accurate and actionable information to support or evaluate economic and workforce development policies. For more information visit www.ubalt.edu/jfi.

dePartment of laBor, liCenSinG and reGulation

The Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation’s mission is to safeguard and protect Marylanders and support the economic stability of the state by providing businesses, work-force, and consumers with high-quality, customer-focused regulatory employment and training services. DLLR oversees and coordinates the state’s workforce development programs including the new industry-lead EARN Maryland Program.

DLLR also oversees adult learning initiatives including correc-tional education; administers the unemployment insurance program; regulates financial institutions; licenses and regulates 24 occupations, professions, and trades; enforces occupational safety and health laws; and regulates the racing industry.

maryland teCHnoloGy develoPment CorPoration (tedCo)

The Maryland Technology Development Corporation (TEDCO) was created in 1998 by the General Assembly to facilitate the creation of businesses and foster their growth in all regions of the state through the transfer and commercial-ization of technology from Maryland’s research universities and federal laboratories. TEDCO’s vision is that Maryland will become internationally recognized as one of the premier 21st-century locations for technology and technology-based economic development. TEDCO’s role is to be Maryland’s leading source of funding for seed capital and entrepreneurial business assistance for technology transfer and development programs. TEDCO provides a variety of funding programs for early-stage companies, university research and stem cell research, as well as entrepreneurial and business incubation programs. Visit TEDCO at www.tedco.md.

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for Entrepreneurship and the University of Maryland Industrial Partnerships (MIPS) grant program. To learn how the University of Maryland can better serve you or your organization, contact Associate Vice President Brian Darmody at bdarmody@umd.edu or call 301-405-1990.

WaSHinGton County dePartment of BuSineSS develoPment

Expanding or relocating your business? Washington County, Md. is a pro-business location strategically poised at the intersection of nation-spanning I-81 and I-70 with rail service proximity. Our Department of Business Development is ready to guide you through programs to open, grow or relocate in one of our great communities. With incentives, financing and custom programs, we help businesses meet goals and maximize benefits. The key to our successful trade diversification — twenty industrial, technology and business parks, Foreign Trade Zone #255 and State Enterprise Zones with airport access available to grow your business.

MEDA Partners2014 MEDA Upcoming Events and CoursesJune 5-6 Economic Development Marketing & Attraction –

IEDC Course in Baltimore

June 12 MEDA Summer Conference on Health Technology – Alumni House – Prince George’s County

July 21-24 Chesapeake Basic Economic Development Course – Baltimore City Community College

Sept 18-19 Strategic Planning – IEDC Course in Baltimore

Oct 27 MEDA Fall Conference on Advanced Technologies – Rocky Gap Lodge – Allegany County

Oct 27-31 Economic Development Week

Dec 5 Deadline for 2015 MEDA Awards entries