As the days get hotter, we look forward to relaxing with family and friends, seeking adventure, and finding sources of rejuvenation. While summer might look different this year, this newsletter highlights some local opportunities that allow you to stay close to home and unwind.

We could not be more proud of our team for all of the hard work that went into the Jump Start Grant Program. The County received 1,181 applications for the program that concluded in late June. Demand outpaced funding capacity; however, the County was able to award a total of 859 grants. There were 498 Micro Business Grants, 289 Small Business Grants and 72 Full-time Farmer Grants. The grantees included 156 minority owned businesses, 53 veteran owned businesses and 316 woman owned businesses. These businesses represent a wide range of industries and are a true example of the diverse business community we have in Frederick County.

It was an honor to have an opportunity to participate in the Virtual Town Hall on Racial Equity. Below you can find links to watch the Town Hall, review the presentation, and read more about the Minority Business Executive Development Program.

This month, we challenge you to stay local in all that you do and discover what could be right in your backyard.  Remember, we are #StillFrederickCo.

Sincerely,
Reminder
Grant recipients must file an Expense Substantiation Form by July 31st.
Business News
The Frederick Guide - Summer 2020
The summer edition of Frederick County Guide is now online. Check it out!
Restaurant Week
Visit Frederick has announced the first ever Summer Restaurant Week for Frederick County!
Save the Date August 24th-30th
#StillFrederickCo
Catch up on all of the businesses that have been highlighted so far!  They are #StillInnovating, #StillServing, #StillMaking, #StillHiring, and #StillFarming.

The Edge Accelerator Welcomes 2020 Cohort
We are excited to watch these 14 new startups grow and benefit from FITCI's Accelerator program!
TechFrederick hackathon Teams Create Software Solutions for Local Non-Profits
techfrederick, a coalition of local high-tech companies, completed its second Annual hackathon.
TOMI SteraMist Partners with Frederick County to Provide Safe Work Environment
Frederick County has a new partner in the fight against COVID-19.
Supporting Minority Leaders to Help Take Their Company to the Next Level
OED has partnered with Hood College and Mount St. Mary's University to offer the Frederick County Minority Business Executive Development Program.
Warehouse Cinemas Brings Luxury Movie Watching to the Golden Mile
Frederick will soon have a new place to kick back,relax, and watch the latest movies.
Face Coverings and Businesses
We break down the details and the importance in our latest blog.
Racial Equity Virtual Town Hall
Watch as County Executive Jan Gardner is joined by community leaders to discuss educational, health, economic and other factors that play a role in elevating opportunity and quality of life. Presentations can also be downloaded.
#UnsungHeroes
Thanks to Frederick County Executive Jan H. Gardner for the recognition, and a very special shout-out to our very own Katie and Beth!

Farmers' Markets
The most delicious time of year!  Find a market near you and read the shopping guidelines put in place to keep everyone safe and healthy.

Webinars
Small Business Resiliency Series
Hosted by Downtown Frederick Partnership 
Become a member of the Resiliency Series and gain access to valuable tools for a post-COVID world.  Open to Frederick County, MD businesses.

Navigating the Maze of Accommodations for Small Business Owners in a COVID-19 World
Hosted by SBDC
July 23, 2020; 10:00AM

Growing an Inclusive Team
Hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce
July 29, 2020 2:00PM

Information and Resources
Frederick County COVID-19 Resource Page


OED  Resources and Information for Businesses Impacted by COVID-19

Maryland Business Express Coronavirus Information for Businesses


New Employer Tool for Updating Return to Work Dates and Reporting Job Refusals 

COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance Program
Frederick County residents who are behind in their rent because of the COVID-19 pandemic may be eligible for an emergency rental assistance program. The application deadline has been extended until further notice.
Frederick County Office of Economic Development
301-600-1058
118 N. Market Street, Suite 300
Frederick, MD  21701
www.discoverfrederickmd.com