International Companies Landing in Frederick

For international companies looking to establish a foothold in the United States, Frederick, Maryland, is emerging as a strategic and welcoming first destination. The City of Frederick’s Economic Development team, in partnership with local, county, and state organizations, has played a vital role in helping foreign companies secure locations and successfully launch operations here.

Marketing Frederick as a Destination for International Expansion

Maryland’s Global Gateway – Soft Landing Program provides international companies with a streamlined path to launch their first U.S. operations. Frederick Innovative Technology Center, Inc. (FITCI) is an approved Soft Landing destination, offering companies use a state-of-the-art incubator/accelerator facility along with business mentoring, resources, and tailored support to ease their transition into the U.S. market.

Since launching Frederick’s Soft-Landing program at FITCI, Frederick has already welcomed several international companies through this initiative. According to FITCI CEO Kathie Callahan Brady, 14 international companies from countries including Ireland, Scotland, India, Colombia, Chile, Romania, Canada, Switzerland, and Nigeria have signed on. An additional 18+ companies are currently in the pipeline.

The Maryland Department of Commerce provides robust support and programming to promote foreign business expansion across the state. At the local level, the City and County Economic Development teams collaborate closely with the state to ensure that international companies receive comprehensive assistance—from site selection to integration into the regional business community.

Together, these efforts are making Frederick a launchpad for global innovation and business growth.

Connecting with Global & National Investors: Conferences, Programs, and Site Visits

The City of Frederick’s Economic Development team actively participates in key conferences across the region, nation, and globe to promote Frederick as a competitive location for business investment. Many of these events are industry-specific and focus on entrepreneurial growth across sectors like biotechnology, manufacturing, and technology.

One of the most impactful events is the SelectUSA Investment Summit, an initiative of the International Trade Administration that connects Economic Development Organizations (EDOs) with global investors. The 2025 Summit, held in National Harbor, Maryland, drew over 5,500 attendees, including 2,700+ international delegates and representatives from all 56 U.S. states and territories—making it the largest in SelectUSA history.

From an economic development standpoint, our team participated in SelectUSA to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) and raise awareness of Frederick’s strategic advantages. These types of conferences facilitate international partnerships, business expansions, and investment deals. Frederick has already seen direct results from the recent conference: one company from Turkey is preparing to enter Maryland’s Soft Landing Program as a result of connections made at SelectUSA.

In June, our team is attending the BIO International Convention in Boston alongside county and state economic development partners. As the world’s largest biotechnology conference—with more than 20,000 industry leaders—BIO provides powerful opportunities to showcase Frederick’s biotech strengths. With 130+ life science companies, a highly skilled workforce, collaborative academic institutions, and strong infrastructure, Frederick is well-positioned to attract new biotech investments and make new connections for its local biotech community.

Beyond biotech, our team attends a range of other conferences focused on entrepreneurship, advanced manufacturing, commercial real estate, site selection, and innovation ecosystems—helping our team connect with businesses at all scales, both domestic and international.

Customized Tours Showcasing Frederick’s Biotech and Innovation Ecosystem

In addition to conference participation, Frederick frequently hosts customized tours for visiting international delegations exploring U.S. business opportunities. These tours often include visits to leading biotech, tech, and manufacturing companies; meetings with local founders and executives; and tours of Frederick’s assets—from its scenic landscapes and historic downtown to its workforce and industry infrastructure.

These combined efforts—targeted marketing, global conference engagement, and on-the-ground business tours—are positioning Frederick as a launchpad for international growth and innovation.

To learn more about these initiatives, reach out to the City’s Economic Development team at 301.600.6360 or email businessinfrederick@cityoffrederickmd.gov .

Strengthening Economic Development Through Partnership with MEDA

At the City of Frederick’s Department of Economic Development (DED), we recognize that strong partnerships are essential to building a resilient and thriving economy. One of our most valued statewide partners is the Maryland Economic Development Association (MEDA), a key organization uniting economic development professionals across government, private industry, and nonprofit sectors. As an active participant in MEDA, the City of Frederick DED benefits from shared best practices, collaborative training opportunities, and a strong professional network that increases our ability to support local businesses and attract new investment.

Photo credit: Mary Gardella Photography

In this Q&A, we’re proud to spotlight Pamela Ruff, Executive Director of MEDA, whose leadership has helped shape the professional landscape for economic developers across Maryland. Pam shares insights on MEDA’s mission, how it supports professionals and communities, and how organizations like ours in Frederick can continue to benefit from this network.

About MEDA. The Maryland Economic Development Association (MEDA) is a statewide membership organization with over 560 members. Our members represent a wide spectrum of economic and community development professionals—from state and local government to private-sector partners—who are dedicated to bringing jobs, investment, and vitality to Maryland communities.

MEDA’s Purpose: MEDA serves as a unique forum that connects professionals across government and industry. We bring together diverse voices to share best practices, foster collaboration, and support one another’s work. Our goal is to build a stronger, more unified economic development ecosystem across Maryland.

How did you get involved in MEDA? I became involved with MEDA while working at a marketing and communications firm that specialized in supporting Maryland’s economic development ecosystem. It was a natural fit, and I've been part of the organization ever since.

How can you become a member? Becoming a member is easy—just visit our website at www.medamd.com/membership. Annual membership is $200, and the benefits far outweigh the cost.

What are the benefits of MEDA membership? MEDA members receive discounted rates for conferences, training courses, and some partner events. They also gain access to exclusive programs such as our annual Awards program, which recognizes outstanding projects and initiatives across the state.

We offer professional development opportunities year-round, including our Mentorship Program, which pairs seasoned professionals with those new to the field. Our conferences cover timely topics and provide excellent networking opportunities. We actively engage with our Young Leaders group, and while we don’t take formal positions on legislation, we keep members informed on key policy developments through our Public Policy Committee and website updates. To learn more about MEDA, please visit https://www.medamd.com/.

The City of Frederick DED is deeply committed to advancing economic opportunity not just locally, but as part of a broader statewide effort. Our longstanding involvement with MEDA reflects that commitment. Under Pam Ruff’s leadership, MEDA continues to be a powerful force for professional development, policy awareness, and collaborative success across jurisdictions. We’re proud to engage with MEDA and its partners, knowing that organizations like ours in Frederick can contribute to and benefit from the shared vision of economic vitality throughout Maryland.

Reach out to our DED team to learn about connectivity in the realm of economic development locally and throughout the state. 301.600.6360 or businessinfrederick@cityoffrederickmd.gov .

Feature Photo Credit: Patrick Siebert, Deputy Chief Photographer, Office of the Governor

MEDA 2025 Annual Conference Recap - Celebrating Regional Collaboration

From April 27-29, 2025, the Maryland Economic Development Association (MEDA) once again brought together the state’s economic development professionals, policymakers, and business leaders for an unforgettable annual conference in Cambridge, Maryland. The theme for 2025, “Maryland’s North Star: Regions Coming Together,” celebrated the power of regional partnerships.

The City of Frederick played a central role at this year’s conference, hosted at the scenic Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay. After two years at the helm, Frederick’s own Richard Griffin, Director of the City of Frederick Department of Economic Development (DED), concluded his term as MEDA President, officially passing the torch to his successor Tammi Thomas. Griffin’s leadership has been instrumental in guiding the state’s economic development conversations, particularly in advancing collaboration across jurisdictions and sectors.

Frederick's influence was visible not only in leadership but also in the programming. The Secretaries Roundtable, a major panel discussion sponsored in part by The City of Frederick, featured state agency leaders exploring economic development priorities and policy alignment across regions.

Other standout sessions included:

• “Regional Industries in Focus”, which addressed economic shifts and sector-based strategies across Maryland.

• “Resource Adequacy: How Utilities Support Economic Growth and Sustainability in an Electrifying Era,” which examined how energy infrastructure must evolve to support business attraction and climate goals.

Frederick representatives from DED, Frederick County Office of Economic Development, Office of Agriculture, and the Department of Commerce connected with peers from across the state throughout the conference, taking part in networking receptions, collaborative sessions, and informal exchanges that help cultivate and strengthen the relationships necessary for long-term growth. positions Frederick as a contributor to broader efforts across Maryland in bolstering and advancing economic innovation, collaboration, and growth.

To stay updated on how Frederick continues to lead regional economic development, visit businessinfrederick.com.

Photo credit: Tom McCall Photography & DED staff

'Go Maryland, Go MEDA, Go Frederick:' Reflections from Former MEDA President Richard Griffin

After two years, the City of Frederick’s Department of Economic Development (DED) Director, Richard Griffin, completed his impactful term as President of the Maryland Economic Development Association (MEDA). MEDA, a statewide organization representing economic development professionals, business leaders, and elected officials, plays a critical role in shaping Maryland’s economic landscape. Griffin’s leadership reflected not only his dedication to Frederick’s growth but also his commitment to strengthening communities throughout Maryland. As his term concludes, Richard shared his reflections on what inspired his passion, the challenges and accomplishments of the last two years, and what he envisions for the future of economic development in the state.

Why are you passionate about economic development throughout the state? 

I am a people person and have always been moved by the human condition.  Having traveled to places both in and out of the country where there were few job opportunities, high poverty, and crumbling infrastructure, it is so clear to me how important it is for communities to strive to attract private investment and jobs.  I am very proud and humbled that Frederick leaders have given me the opportunity to do that work here.  I got my first job with a paycheck when I was 15 years old delivering the Raleigh Times afternoon newspaper in my neighborhood making $1 per customer per month, I was driving a school bus at 16 for $3.10/hour (min wage),* and joined the Army at 18 which later paid for my college education.   Jobs provide people with dignity, health care, and a paycheck to cover housing, food and so much more (although we know that not all jobs are equal in terms of pay and benefits).  I was mentored by key professionals like Marie Keegin, CEcD who helped shape my understanding of the profession and encouraged me to learn and become certified which I did early on in my tenure.   I’ve learned what motivates business owners to invest in a community, and how important skilled workforce, zoned land with utilities, and a predictable and speedy permitting system is to attract those private dollars.  I joined the Maryland Economic Development Association (MEDA) in 2003 and have learned much about top economic development practices through conferences, professional training, and networking.  Though not from Maryland originally, I’ve really grown to love the state and all its beauty and blemishes.   My children were all born, raised, and educated in Frederick and call Maryland home.  I want them and others young professionals to have great opportunities to work, live, and play close to home.   So yes, I am passionate about economic development across the state and support continued investment.

*(In NC where I grew up school buses were all driven by high school students for many years)”

What were your key accomplishments? 

During my tenure as the President of MEDA, we increased membership to nearly 600 - professionals, elected officials, and business representatives -  from the eastern shore to the Cumberland mountains.   MEDA has incredible leadership with a 21-member Board of Directors, active committees, and talented staff.   As a profession and organization, we navigated the post-COVID inflation, supply-chain issues, and workforce challenges.   But perhaps most notable was helping unify the economic development professionals from across the state when the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore collapsed last year following a collision from a cargo ship.  This unforeseen and tragic incident caused loss of human life, closure of the Port of Baltimore, major supply chain issues, transportation quagmire, and worker layoffs.  It could have been far worse in terms of its impact had it not been for the swift action of the US Government, State of Maryland including the Department of Commerce, and economic development professionals across the state setting up job hot lines, business assistance programs to help businesses coordinate supply chain issues, and much more.  Many of these individuals are MEDA members, and MEDA took immediate action to offer coordination assistance and to promote state and local efforts to limit economic distress.   I am also proud of the efforts MEDA undertook through BEACON at Salisbury University to analyze the impact of economic development investment by Maryland counties and ultimately announcing that $8.81 is returned for every $1 invested on average across the state. 

What would you like to see in MEDA's future? 

I am really proud of MEDA’s Young Leader’s committee and programs.   I am totally stoked about Maryland and MEDA’s future leaders from across the state.   Their innovation, passion, and work to move the needle for their home communities as well as MEDA is commendable and I look forward to seeing some of these individuals leading the organization and direction of the profession.  I am also very hopeful that MEDA continues to support the needs of Maryland’s largest city – Baltimore as it becomes the economic powerhouse we all know it is capable of achieving.   Maryland’s 157 cities and towns are economic generators for their host counties and indeed the entire state.  Selfishly, I also am looking forward to Frederick hosting a MEDA event at the new Downtown Frederick Hotel and Conference Center on Carroll Creek Park in downtown Frederick when completed in 2027. 

As President of MEDA for the last two years, what was your favorite part about the job? Hardest?

This is easy – I love the MEDA members and learning about them personally as well as the opportunities and challenges in their home communities.  MEDA is super diverse, with members from across the state - each bringing a unique skill and story.   I enjoyed the conversations and discussions at every meeting, conference, and event.  I learned so much and brought so many ideas back home to my own community – Frederick.   I was sad for the MEDA family when we lost a member to illness – like most recently Dick Story in Howard County.   We all shared in the happiness through family events, promotions, and life’s opportunities.  I also was afforded the opportunity to join Governor Wes Moore on the MEDA stage along with many of his cabinet secretaries and share his enthusiasm for Maryland and the economic development work being done my MEDA members.   I was truly humbled by the faith and trust of my colleagues to allow me to serve as President of the organization.   Go Maryland, Go MEDA, Go Frederick.

Richard Griffin’s presidency of MEDA was marked by unity, progress, and an unwavering commitment to people and place. From navigating statewide economic recovery efforts to elevating the next generation of leaders, his tenure reflected the very heart of economic development: resilience, innovation, and service. As he continues his work in Frederick, Griffin leaves behind a stronger MEDA and a legacy of collaboration that will shape Maryland’s economic future for years to come. And with exciting upcoming activities like hosting a future MEDA event in downtown Frederick, his vision for economic growth remains firmly rooted in both local and statewide progress.

Not Your Grandpa's SCORE: A New Era in Business Mentorship

When most people hear the name "SCORE," they might imagine a network of retired executives offering advice to mom-and-pop shops. But today, that image couldn’t be further from the truth. SCORE has undergone a transformation, from a traditional advisory group into a modernized hub for entrepreneurs from all backgrounds. This evolution hasn’t happened in a vacuum but has been powered by strong partnerships. One example is the working relationship between SCORE and the City of Frederick Department of Economic Development (DED).  

The DED often refers current and future businessowners to SCORE as a trusted resource for business planning, mentorship, and support. But with its renewed commitment to meeting people where they are, that trust has only deepened. Tereance Moore, a forward-thinking SCORE mentor who has played a key role in that transformation, explains how the organization is leading change and why it’s more relevant than ever.

How has SCORE evolved in recent years?

Tereance Moore tabling for SCORE at a business-related event.

In recent years, SCORE has made an intentional and impressive shift from being seen as a resource for retirees and traditional business models to becoming a dynamic, inclusive, and future-focused entrepreneurial support hub. As a mentor and ambassador, I’ve seen firsthand how SCORE’s reach now includes high-growth startups, nonprofit founders, and social entrepreneurs from underrepresented backgrounds. Today's mentorship experience is more collaborative, culturally responsive, and digitally savvy than it was a decade ago. That evolution is reflected in the diversity of the mentors and the entrepreneurs we serve.

What are some of the biggest misconceptions about SCORE?

One of the most persistent misconceptions is that SCORE is only for older, brick-and-mortar businesses or “just for retirees.” In reality, many of us bring deep, current expertise from tech, finance, manufacturing, and startup ecosystems, and we’re still active in those industries. Another common myth is that SCORE services come with a catch. They don’t. The advice is genuinely free. No strings, no sales pitch, just a shared commitment to helping entrepreneurs succeed.

How are you reaching younger or first-time entrepreneurs?

Through the SCORE for All initiative, we’ve leaned into community partnerships, peer-to-peer mentorship models, and events that meet emerging entrepreneurs where they are both geographically and culturally. Whether it’s pop-up pitch clinics at coworking spaces, webinars on creative capital, or social media campaigns featuring client wins, we’re bridging the gap with relevance and authenticity. SCORE mentors today are just as likely to share Google Drive templates and AI tools as they are to walk through a traditional business plan.

What’s the current energy in the SCORE community?

It’s exciting. There’s a renewed sense of purpose, especially among newer mentors, who are here to give back and build bridges. Mentorship relationships feel more like collaborations; our clients are often co-creators. That shift from “sage on the stage” to “guide on the side” has been transformative for everyone involved.

Several exciting developments reflect the momentum of SCORE DC and our broader commitment to equitable access:

Tereance Moore and another SCORE mentor at a SCORE event.

• SCORE for All has become more than a banner—it’s a framework we’re applying to recruit mentors, engage communities, and ensure our resources are culturally relevant and accessible to women, veterans, people of color, and rural entrepreneurs. It’s making a real difference in who feels seen and supported.

• We’re also undergoing a digital transformation, making it easier than ever to access mentorship and resources virtually. Our library of on-demand webinars, interactive templates, and new mentor matching system is streamlining how clients get timely and targeted support. That’s especially important for busy entrepreneurs balancing multiple demands.

• Western Maryland has now been integrated into the Washington, DC chapter. As someone based in the region, I can attest that this alignment has expanded capacity and connection. It’s allowing us to deliver more cohesive support across the state and spotlight rural and small-town business innovation in ways that weren’t possible before.

• Lastly, partnerships are driving our reach. Whether working with local chambers of commerce, the SBA, universities, or private-sector allies, SCORE is building a collaborative ecosystem where small businesses can thrive. These relationships bring additional resources, funding opportunities, and exposure to the companies we mentor.

There’s a renewed energy in the air. We’re growing, adapting, and—most importantly—meeting people where they are with the tools they need to succeed.

With mentors like Tereance Moore helping to guide the next generation of entrepreneurs, the future of SCORE is in good hands. This isn’t your grandpa’s SCORE — it’s yours.

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To learn more about SCORE and other business planning resources, click here to schedule a visit with the City of Frederick’s Department of Economic Development.

Empowering Entrepreneurs: Insights from Karen Kalantzis of the Maryland Women’s Business Center

MWBC with DED Staff at the Coffee and Connections event at City Hall, 2024.

The Maryland Women’s Business Center (MWBC) has been an invaluable resource for aspiring and established entrepreneurs since its founding in 2010. MWBC plays a vital role in fostering the growth of small businesses throughout the state of Maryland. As part of its commitment to supporting business development, the Department of Economic Development (DED) has a longstanding relationship with MWBC, referring entrepreneurs to their services for guidance and support. By sending individuals to MWBC, the DED ensures that entrepreneurs have access to the mentorship, resources, and networking opportunities necessary to succeed. Karen Kalantzis, Senior Business Consultant at MWBC, shares insights into her work, the role of the center in the community, and some essential advice for new entrepreneurs. Let’s dive in!

How did MWBC come to be and how did you get involved?

The Small Business Administration created Women’s Business Centers in 1988. Today, there are approximately 150 centers, with a presence in almost every state. The Maryland Women’s Business Center, founded in 2010 as the Rockville Women’s Business Center, is hosted by Rockville Economic Development and now provides support to women and men in Montgomery, Frederick, Prince George’s and Howard Counties. I joined the organization during Covid after I was laid off from my previous job.

What is your job and what does it entail?

Karen Kalanzis, Senior Business Consultant

I am a Senior Business Consultant supporting Frederick County entrepreneurs. I help women and men start a business or grow an existing business. We provide free counseling services, free and low-cost business education, and small business resource and networking events. I host Coffee and Connections, a networking group that meets every month, and also help the candidates participating in Frederick County Chamber of Commerce’s SHE Pitch competition.

What is the role of MWBC in the greater community?

To help aspiring and established business owners gain the skills, connections and confidence necessary to navigate entrepreneurship.

Tell a success story of a business owner who has used MWBC resources.

 The MWBC has helped many women in the city open or grow their businesses such as JoNa’s Outdoor Furniture, The Frederick Ballroom, Nelia African Market, and The Frederick Wig Company. I am currently very excited to hear about the progress Jenni Hoover is making with preparing to open a new indoor swim school called Serenity Swimming. Jenni was a SHE Pitch winner and won over the judges with her business plan and dedication to our community to teach all generations how to be safe in the water.

 What are the top 3 common mistakes Frederick business owners make?

I have seen many people make the same mistakes when starting their business. First, they fail to create a comprehensive plan based in reality before launching the business. They spend too much time thinking about what I call the “fun or pretty things,” such as just the right logo color or uniform design, and not enough time thinking about more serious matters like funding, pricing, and revenue streams.

The second mistake is being under-funded. Every business owner is looking for grants from the government, but the reality is a person starting out will have to use or find their own money to invest.

The third mistake is thinking that people will automatically come when the business is created. They fail to understand who their customer is, what real needs they have, and how to effectively reach those potential customers with marketing to break through all the noise. So, to sum up, planning is key for a successful business!

MWBC Coffee and Connections networking event at JoNa’s 

What advice would you give to new entrepreneurs who aspire to start their own businesses?

Start working on a business plan, interview potential customers about their needs, collect information on startup costs, save money to invest in the business, and improve their credit score if necessary. Also utilize all the resources that are available to you! For mentoring and training, there is the Maryland Women’s Business Center, the Small Business Development Center and SCORE. The City and County Offices of Economic Development are also available to provide assistance. Once you engage with one of these offices, you will typically have many doors open to you.

With a mission to provide support and guidance to business owners, particularly women, the Maryland Women’s Business Center (MWBC) provides the guidance that many entrepreneurs need to succeed. From free counseling services to business events and webinars, MWBC is here to help navigate the entrepreneurial terrain. Visit https://www.marylandwbc.org/ to schedule a counseling sessions. If you would like to learn more about small business resources, reach out to our Economic Development team at 301.600.6360 or email businessinfrederick@cityoffrederickmd.gov.

Leadership Frederick County Enjoys Economic Development Day

Leadership Frederick County Class of 2024-25 spent a full day learning about Economic Development that included site tours, presentations and panel discussions. LFC is a nine-month leadership program that introduces participants to Frederick County’s history, agriculture, economic development, public safety, education, government, and health and human services. The program also includes graduate-level leadership master classes taught by experts from Hood College.

LFC Economic Development Day Agenda:

LFC Class of 2025 began the day at Hood College with a case study presented that illustrated the collaborative nature of economic development and how the community benefits from these joint initiatives. Mary Ford-Naill, Manager of Economic Development for the City of Frederick and Jodie Bollinger, Director, Frederick County Office of Economic Development provided an overview of the city and county including insight about key industry sectors in Frederick. They highlighted how the local economic development teams work together to provide site selection assistance, start-up business services, resources and incentive programs, workforce training programs and community connections.

Economic Development is a deliberate set of programs, policies or activities intended to improve the economic well-being and quality of life by creating and/or retaining jobs that facilitate growth and provide a stable tax base over time. In Maryland, for every dollar invested in Economic Development, the return on investment is $9.17 (Source: Maryland Economic Development Association.) Economic developers seek to create/retain permanent high wage jobs, stimulate, private sector investment, grow the non-residential tax base and help governments plan for the future. This occurs through business attraction, business retention & expansion, small business development & entrepreneurial support, neighborhood development and workforce development.

The packed agenda included discussions about two key hotel projects in Frederick – both of which will have significant economic impact in the community. The class was treated to a site tour of Visitation Hotel Frederick – an amazing example of adaptive reuse converting a former all girls school and convent into a hip and historic hotel, restaurant and ballroom. Developer James O’Hare, CEO, O2 Holdings, shared insights about the project, including how the hotel overcame a fire that caused significant project delays. The hotel is slated to open for its first guests in December and several weddings are already booked for next year. Celebrity Chef Bryan Voltaggio will soon open Wye Tavern Restaurant in the repurposed former chapel which will be open to guests and the public. Peter Plamondon Jr., co-President, Plamondon Hospitality Partners, provided an overview of the Downtown Hotel and Conference Center that will be coming soon to Carroll Creek. The hotel will include approximately 200 rooms, a 21,000 square foot conference center, rooftop bar and three restaurants. Groundbreaking will be happening soon! Stay tuned!

Next stop, LFC learned about Kroger’s Fulfillment Center and how economic development partners and government were able to work collaboratively to win the project for Frederick. Kroger partnered with the Ocado Group, the world’s largest online grocery retailer using high tech, digital and robotic equipment taking home delivery to a new level for grocers such as Harris Teeter & Kroger. With 700,000 square feet and 400 employees, this Kroger facility is one of the largest warehouse distribution facilities in the county.

Speaking of economic drivers, the class stopped at Frederick Municipal Airport (FDK) to learn about this important asset for the region from Airport Manager Andrew Moore. This full-service general aviation airport will see the expansion of additional hangar space coming soon. Don’t forget to check out family, fun events at the airport such as Santa’s visit on December 8th and the Festival of Flight next September.

The class then toured Frederick Innovative Technology Center, Inc.’s new incubator/accelerator program with presentations by CEO Kathie Callahan Brady and two current FITCI clients, CarrTech and NanoBioFAB. FITCI provides entrepreneurs, particularly in life sciences and technology, with the tools necessary to create a solid business foundation. FITCI provides advisory members to provide mentorship and guidance as well as insight about raising capital for ventures. Many FITCI program graduates have been able to effectively scale their organizations and its product offerings for a national/international market.

Steinhardt Brewing, a craft beverage company was the final stop of the day. The LFC class learned about the collaborative and supportive nature of the craft beverage industry in Frederick. While on-site, LFC class participants were treated to an informative panel discussion highlighting key initiatives in workforce development from both a corporate and non-profit vantage. The panel included participants from Frederick County Workforce Services, Justice Jobs, Canam Steel and Phoenix Mecano.

Leadership training and development is important for organizations and for an individual’s career development. Learn more about Leadership Frederick County here.

Need economic development resources for your company? Reach out to our economic development team by calling 301.600.6360 or scheduling a meeting today.

New Professional Development Series for Artists & Arts Nonprofits

The creative economy significantly enhances the quality of life in Frederick and supports its vibrant business community. This fall, the Weinberg Center for the Arts launched a series of Professional Development Workshops for artists and arts nonprofits. These workshops provide essential tools, resources, and networking opportunities. The series was developed in partnership with several organizations, including the City of Frederick Department of Economic Development, the Frederick Arts Council, the Frederick County Art Association, and Give Rise Studio. Local and regional experts also contributed their insights on starting and growing creative businesses.

Workshop Topics

The Professional Development Series covered various important topics, including:

• Grant writing and fundraising essentials

• Best practices for nonprofit and for-profit organizations

• Advertising, marketing, and social media strategies

• Disaster preparedness and insurance

• Partnerships, collaborations, and networking

Stephanie Chaiken, Executive Theater Manager at the Weinberg Center, explained the motivation behind the series: “We wanted to provide visual, performing, and literary artists and organizations with opportunities to improve their business skills and connect for future collaborations. Many artists were unaware of local and national resources, so we created a program to give them a taste of various topics.”

The series was shaped by feedback from a summer town hall meeting, where artists shared their needs in the creative economy.

Participants learned from organizations like the Maryland State Arts Council and LAA Community Engagement & Equity in Research at Americans for the Arts. Local experts also offered best practices to enhance business plans and marketing efforts.

“We’re excited to support collaborative efforts that strengthen Frederick’s creative economy.”

— Mary Ford-Naill, Manager of Economic Development for The City of Frederick

The City of Frederick oversees both the Weinberg Center for the Arts and New Spire Arts. Earlier this year, the city hired Laila Jadallah as the Manager of Arts and Culture to lead cultural activities. As part of this series, the city launched a Cultural Asset Mapping Survey to better understand the creative businesses in the area. This survey will remain open through 2024.

To participate in the survey visit: Cultural Asset Mapping.

If you need help with your creative business, contact the Department of Economic Development at 301.600.6360 or email business@cityoffrederickmd.gov for resources and support.

FCC Food Entrepreneurship Program Wraps Up Another Successful Year

The latest cohort of Frederick Community College's Food Business Entrepreneurship program recently finished up and class participants were provided an opportunity to pitch to judges about their future food business ventures! The City of Frederick: Department of Economic Development and Frederick County Office of Agriculture co-sponsored the Food Business Entrepreneurship program again this year. Our team meets with food entrepreneurs, participated in a panel discussion with class members and have even assisted with the pitch competitions.

The Food Business Entrepreneurship Program allows class participants to hone their skills and experience while increasing credentials in partnership with the Hospitality, Culinary and Tourism Institute. Delivering foundation-level concepts and knowledge in entrepreneurship and food service management, topics included financial management, front & back of house operations, marketing & sales, regulatory requirements, kitchen skills, and more. Expert-led instruction also develops skills to plan for, start, and operate a food service business.

Culminating in an exciting pitch competition, participants showcased their new business concepts to local industry and financial community partners with opportunities to win monetary awards and/or customized mentorships with working professionals in the field.

Congratulations to the following winners:

🥇 1st Place – Fat Sassy's Take and Bake, Nicole Scott: Awarded a six-month subscription to Maryland Bakes!

🥈 2nd Place – Punk 'n Peasant Pierogi, Brandy Gurbal: Awarded a $1,000 scholarship from the Frederick Community College Foundation Culinary Competition Scholarship Fund!

🥉 3rd Place – Aunt Jean's Cuisine, Jamie Brown: Awarded a $500 cash prize, sponsored by FoodPro!

🏅 4th Place – Bol Apetit, Onella St. Hilaire: Awarded a $500 cash prize, sponsored by Wegmans!

To learn more about FCC's Food Business Entrepreneurship Program, visit: Food Business Entrepreneurship - Frederick Community College

If you are interested in starting or growing your food related business, reach out to our team at the City of Frederick’s Department of Economic Development to schedule a meeting, call 301.600.6360 or email business@cityoffrederickmd.gov .