Congratulations to everyone who took part in the very first Frederick County Biotech Boot Camp! OED is proud to be a part of this program that teaches workers the skills needed for biotech jobs right here in our area.
Top Economic Development News
February is Black History Month, and through our EmPOWER program we continue to highlight resources, training and networking events available to underrepresented businesses and entrepreneurs. Our EmPOWER directory is a great resource for those looking to celebrate and support black-owned businesses. Valentine’s Day may be over, but you can still share the love by shopping local.
 
The next round of Frederick County Agricultural Innovation Grants will open March 1st. The program is designed to keep agriculture viable and profitable for future generations by helping farmers expand or diversify their business operations. 
 
OED is also very excited to announce that the Frederick Real Estate Dealmaker (FRED) Awards will be returning in May this year. Real Estate professionals, architects, engineers, general contractors, building owners and companies have been hard at work during the pandemic helping businesses locate and expand in Frederick County. The return of this OED signature event is an opportunity to celebrate those teams that help grow our economy. We are keeping the attendance smaller this year, so if you would like to attend consider sponsoring the event.
 
The Super Bowl and Olympics have given us a lot to cheer for. Maybe you root for a specific team or athlete or maybe you only watch for the commercials and halftime show. Economic Development is a team sport, and the effects can be felt throughout the region. Ellume USA continues to make significant impacts and was recently awarded a Trade & Industry Development Corporate Investment and Community Impact (CiCi) Award in the Community Impact category. Join OED in cheering for and congratulating Ellume USA!  
Helen Propheter, Executive Director of Economic and Workforce Development
Frederick County Office of Economic Development
Top 50 Under 40 Featured Profiles
Applications Open for Agriculture Innovation Grant Program
Applications for the Spring 2022 cycle of grants will be accepted March 1 through March 31. Farmers looking to expand or diversify their operations can apply for funding. 
Made in Frederick: STULZ
Our manufacturing website MadeInFrederick is highlighting STULZ Air Technology Systems, Inc. Follow the link below for a blog and video all about this local company's story.

11 Frederick County Businesses Receive Project Restore Awards
Governor Hogan has announced the second round of Project Restore grants, and 11 Frederick County businesses were selected to receive funding!
What is Black? Healthy Conversations Around Race to Raise Healthy and Thriving Children
Dr. Jaqueline Douge has put her skills and activism together through entrepreneurship to spark change in the black community which led her to the foundation of What is Black, LLC.
Ellume Earns National Honor for Community Impact
Australian-based company Ellume, which is currently building its US headquarters in Frederick, was recently awarded for its community impact.

County Launches EPIC Program for Small Businesses
Good news for small businesses! Frederick County is launching a new EPIC program. The Expedited Permit and Inspection Certificate provides permit review and approval within one week, and next-day inspections.
Changing the World Through Media, One Story at a Time
88 Visual, founded in 2020, is making a significant impact in Frederick County through powerful visual storytelling.

Keeping a Legacy Alive Through Fresh Food and Happy Customers
Don't say we didn't warn you if reading our latest blog makes your mouth water. Follow the link to read our conversation with the owner of Frederick restaurant, Greek Aroma.

February is National Eating Disorder Awareness Month
Located in Frederick County, Eating and Body Image Therapy Center provides services to individuals who are struggling with eating disorders.

MATAN Companies is Making Space for Future Life Science Businesses in Frederick County
The team from the Frederick County Office of Economic Development had the opportunity to tour MATAN’s recent project - Progress Labs at Riverside I, developed with the needs of the biotech industry in mind.