The Baltimore City Chamber Office
Will Be Closed Today

Special Thanks
To Our Sponsors

Welcome Welcome Welcome
To Our New Chamber Members

Adam Bacot, Licensed Sales Agent
Humana
Humana deals with Medicare Insurance options such as Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement and Prescription Drug Plans for people on Medicare. Humana also sells individual dental and vision plans for people of all ages.
Email: abacot@humana.com
Phone: 302-277-8419

Nicholas Eggleston, Executive Director
Marathon
Marathon markets a suite of legal services and identifies theft protection plans to businesses and families. In addition to partnering with market leaders that desires to build a business for themselves and others.
Phone: 410-415-3606

Christine Harazim, Owner
Effortless Boudoir
Effortless Boudoir works with women from all walks of life to create beautiful imagery and unyielding confidence. We believe that boudoir is not about your looks. It’s not about what you wear, your body type, or your age. Boudoir is about embracing yourself just as you are and becoming a more confident “you” right now.
Email: christine@effortlessboudoir.com
Phone: 615-487-0950

Mark Howie, Vice President
Second Byte
Specializes in computer sales and service.
Phone:410-653-2052

Aminah Jones, CEO
The Angel Network of Baltimore Assisted Living
A Home Hemodialysis/ Peritoneal Dialysis Assisted living Residential facility in Baltimore City serving elderly and/ or disabled residents living in Baltimore City- that can no longer live alone and perform the ADL's as well as advocate for their kidney care.
Phone: 202-907-3978

Yves-m Philippe, Consultant
Philippe Management
Consultant in the food and beverage industry.
Email: yvesmphilippe@gmail.com
Phone: 347-426-6301
Upcoming Chamber Events
Wednesday 6/22/22
6:00pm - 8:00pm
Young Professionals Committee

Join our Young Professionals Committee as they enjoy some great drinks and laughs at their Summer Kickoff Happy Hour!

Thursday, 6/23/22
Young Professionals Committee Meeting (Virtual)
6:30pm - 7:30pm
Special Guest Speaker:
Paul Gardner


If you missed the Contract Doctor in April please join us and learn more why contracts are important for your business.

Tuesday 6/28/22
Panel Talk Tuesday
6:30pm-8:30pm
Noir Restaurant and Lounge

Come out to meet Paul Gowin, CEO of Take Command Project to learn how to create a win in your business.

Wednesday 6/28/22
12:00pm - 1:00pm
Webinar: Use Youtube To Grow Your Business

Let's talk about YouTube! Are you thinking of creating a YouTube Channel? Are you currently using YouTube for your business? Not sure how to get started or how to build your channel? This is the webinar for you. 

Get best practices for creating a YouTube Channel and compelling video content that promotes your products and services and drives engagement with your brand.  
In this workshop, we’ll discuss best practices for:
·        Why you should have a YouTube channel
·        How to set up a YouTube channel
·        What's important to fill out when uploading a video
·        Having good creative, and how to target and measure the results

Thursday 7/14/22
Summer In The City
6:00pm - 9:00pm
Guilford Hall Brewery

You are invited to attend our Chamber Networking Event in a beautiful patio setting outside of Guilford Hall Brewery.

Special Entertainment!

Enjoy free street parking, food, and unlimited drinks, beer and wine as a part of your ticket price.
Vendor tables and sponsorships are available.

This will sell out fast.
We have limited tickets, so REGISTER HERE!
Tuesday 7/19/22
11:00am - 12:00pm
Webinar: Learn the Basics of Google Ads

Let's talk about Google Ads, how to get started, and some advanced features!
In this workshop, you will learn how to reach more customers and grow your business with Google Ads.
In this session, we’ll talk about:
·        How to create an account and set up an ad campaign
·        How to write great ads, refine keywords, and include ad extensions
·        How to measure success

Sign up to be a member soon because many of the events that are currently open to all will become members only very soon. We don't want you to miss out on the opportunity to have access to all of the new resourceful business opportunities that we have in store for you this year!
Check out all of our events! (HERE) Many more coming soon....
GRANT & FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES

MINORITY BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT AGENCY CARES ACT SMALL BUSINESS STRATEGIC CONSULTING FUND PROGRAM
INFORMATION SHEET FOR BUSINESSES

WHAT IS THE PROGRAM?

  • Supports minority and women-owned businesses in Baltimore and the surrounding areas in Maryland affected by COVID-19. The idea is to help these businesses to recover, and return to profitability by re-starting, expanding or pivoting to new business models.
  • Program provides technical assistance and/or coaching to increase expertise in areas such as: accounting, marketing, cash flow management, human resource management, technology development, R&D, and government procurement.
  • Businesses will be matched with a list of possible local resource providers (individuals as well of companies), based on business needs. Businesses will select who to work with from this list.

WHICH COMPANIES ARE ELIGIBLE?

Minority-owned businesses (under MBDA definition) that qualify for MBDA resources. See: https://www.mbda.gov/about/whoweserve.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

  • Duly registered and in operation for at least 2 years, with clients and market share;
  • Annual revenues of at least $300,000;
  • Key to the growth and diversification of the local economy;  Positioned for growth;
  • Have not received another CARES grant under this Program;
  • Can provide in counterpart resources at least 10% (in cash) of the cost of the services obtained;
  • 2 Be able to make a 2-3 month commitment to the Program.

NON-PROFITS WILL NOT BE ELIGIBLE. PRIORITY SECTORS
Retail; Manufacturing; Services; Logistics; Supply Chain; Technology; Health; Education.

TARGET
25-30 businesses; 50% of total beneficiary companies should be women-owned

ELIGIBLE EXPENSES
Consulting services; Installation of new equipment and associated training The cost of new equipment, employee salaries or other associated expenses will NOT be covered.

Payments will go directly to the Resource Providers, according to the terms of the service contract.

PROCESS

  • Online Application linked to SourceLink w/financial (income) & tax records  Interview
  • Action Plan developed - Resource Provider/Business Owner/SMWB
  • Training/coaching over a 2 to 3 month engagement based on the Plan.
  • Progress Reports
  • Client evaluation

Flexibility built into the Program depending on client needs.

The period for application is now open. Online Applications are being accepted through SourceLink. See: CLICK HERE

Applicants will have to upload income and tax documents as part of the process.

For questions or inquiries please contact:
Email: info@devsolutionsmd.com
Phone: 410-361-0964
APPLICATION DEADLINE: JUNE 30, 2022
GoFundMe Small Business Relief Initiative 
GoFundMe will issue $500 matching grants to qualifying businesses that raise at least $500 on GoFundMe. Learn more here.

Small Business Readiness for Resiliency Program - This program is designed to encourage preparedness and resiliency. We want to ensure that all small businesses have what they need to deal with the impacts of a disaster in their community. 
The R4R program provides resources and incentives for small businesses to take the actions they need to become more resilient, including the distribution of grants following a disaster. https://www.uschamberfoundation.org/small-business-readiness-resiliency-program

Giving Joy Microgrant - Available to women 18 and older, you can use the grant to start a new business, or expand your existing business. You can also use the grant to start or expand a nonprofit, non-governmental organization (NGO), charity, or propose a specific activity or project you would like to implement. Grant for $500. Apply by 6/30/2022.  https://givingjoygrants.org/grant-application

Roddenberry Catalyst Fund - The Catalyst Fund is offering grants to Nonprofits & Social Enterprises to fund ideas or early-stage projects that have a high potential for large-scale impact and sustainable change. You can be a seasoned social entrepreneur or a first-time changemaker. Eligible candidates for the Catalyst Fund may be individuals, teams of individuals, non-profit organizations, or social enterprises. Grants for up to $15,000.  https://roddenberryfoundation.org/our-work/catalyst-fund/

AT&T Black Future Maker - Black Future Makers are dedicated individuals pursuing greater possibilities for the greater good. Submit a video of 30-60 seconds, or photo, on your Instagram feed explaining how you are pursuing greater possibilities for you and the community. Grants for $10,000. Apply by 12/31/22 - https://www.attdreaminblack.com/contest

Comcast RISE - Marketing and Tech Support and Investment Fund - There are separate applications for the marketing and technology services awards and the Comcast RISE Investment Fund. Eligible business owners may apply for either, or both programs. https://www.comcastrise.com/

Dream Big Awards - Must be a for-profit business operating for at least one (1) year primarily within the United States with less than 250 employees OR gross revenues of less than $20 million for each of 2021 and 2022. Grant for $25,000. Apply by 7/8/2022.  https://www.uschamber.com/co/dream-big-awards/dream-big-awards-2022

Driving Small Business Forward - Ten $25,000 grants will be awarded to Hispanic Small Businesses to use towards the purchase of a commercial vehicle. Apply by 6/17/22 - https://helloalice.com/partners/progressive/

Fearless Strivers - Open to black women who are legal U.S. residents (including DC), 18+ and the principal owner of a U.S.-based small business. Grants for $10,000. Apply by 12/31/22. https://www.fearless.fund/strivers
                                           
HerRise Micro-Grant - Each month a $500 micro-grant will be awarded to a for-profit small business owned by women of color. Past recipients used their growth grants for computers, equipment, marketing materials, software purchase, website creation and more.  https://www.hersuitespot.com/herrise/

Juntos Crecemos Hispanic Digital & Delivery Program - PepsiCo is inviting Latina entrepreneurs who work in food service to apply for eight weeks of personalized expert consultation, including best practices across operations, technology, marketing and digital presence.  https://pepsicojuntoscrecemos.com/jefaowned/

Kapitus Building Resilient Businesses Grant - Create an original video, no more than 2 minutes in length, telling your small business story and how $100,000 can help you continue to write that story.   Not for businesses based in CO or VT. Apply by 6/30/22 - https://kapitus.com/brb/

McBride Sisters SHE CAN Fund in Food and Wine - SHE CAN Fund invests in the professional advancement and career growth of high-potential, professional women, with a particular focus on women of color. Mission is to close the gender and race gap in leadership positions in wine & spirits, hospitality, and finance industries by providing professional development - https://www.mcbridesistersfund.org/grants

Restaurant Disaster Relief Grant - DoorDash has partnered with Hello Alice to create the Restaurant Disaster Relief Fund. The fund supports restaurants impacted by natural disasters like fires, floods and hurricanes with grants up to $10,000. Apply by 6/30/22 - https://helloalice.com/blog/doordash-disaster-relief-fund/

Truist NonProfit Grant - The Truist Foundation supports nonprofits with grants that target leadership development, economic mobility, thriving communities and educational equity. Quarterly deadlines - https://www.truist.com/purpose/truist-foundation/grant-application

Wish Local Empowerment Program - You must be a Black-owned business with a brick-and-mortar shop within the United States and less than 20 employees. If selected for the program, you must join Wish Local (which is free). Grants for up to $2000 - https://www.wish.com/local/empowerment    
  
You Glow Girl Women Entrepreneur Grant – Grant for $10,000 is open to all women entrepreneurs in the US. Apply by July 1. Top 25 will be announced for round 2 on July 8. Top 10 will be announced for round 3 on August 1. Winner announced mid-August.  https://www.eatmeguiltfree.com/pages/youglowgirl
Grant for Non-profit Organizations
Baltimore City has established an online application process for the American Rescue Plan Act funding to support projects for City agencies and nonprofit organizations. Projects must have a minimum grant request of $250,000 to be considered.


For additional questions or assistance regarding the application process, please contact arp@baltimorecity.gov
Do You Want To Volunteer?

The Chamber wants members to get involved with our Events, Membership, Public Policy, Young Professionals or Woman’s Leadership Committee. This is an opportunity to develop relationships and exchange ideas with other business owners and corporations. To learn more, reach out to Lenora Henry, Executive Director at Executivedirector@baltimorecitychamber.org
Look What's Happening
Around Town
Baltimore Business Journal and sponsors have partnered to celebrate Middle Market Leaders on Thursday, June 23 from 5:30pm-8:00pm at The Center Club. Register to attend and congratulate these impactful players in business and the community.
 
Baltimore City Chamber members receive $20 discount using code: baltcitycmember
See the finalists and find out more: https://bizj.us/1qey98
Grow a More Profitable, Efficient, and Competitive Business

The U.S. Small Business Administration’s T.H.R.I.V.E. Emerging Leaders Reimagined is a 6-month intensive training program that helps CEOs and Executives get unstuck and take their business to the next level.

Accelerate your leadership skills, learn an MBA-level curriculum, receive tailored business coaching, and build relationships with a community of business owners, advisors, and experts. Apply today to become a 2022 T.H.R.I.V.E. participant!


Want to Become a Corporate Partner?

The Baltimore City Chamber wants to partner with YOU! The Chamber offers a variety of affordable sponsorship packages which provide the opportunity to have your business promoted in our weekly emails, website, and more! Contact Lenora Henry, Executive Director to schedule a meeting and learn more how to engage with the Chamber at Executivedirector@baltimorecitychamber.org
Business Promotions of The Week
Please email us at info@baltimorecitychamber.org in order to be featured in our Weekly Messages from the Chairwoman.

Need Help Creating Your Marketing Plan?
You can have the best product or service on the market, but without a great marketing strategy, you may struggle to acquire sales.

Owner of Qween of All Tradez LLC, Tyanna Ellisse, has released The Ultimate Marketing Guide Workbook. The book helps new female entrepreneurs and small business owners learn marketing fundamentals while guiding them on how to develop their own marketing plan.

Chamber Member Kadampa Meditation Center Maryland has classes!
Creating a more peaceful world, one mind at a time.
New classes with Resident Teacher Gen Chogden starting this week
Meditation for Modern Life: Breaking Through Loneliness
Thursdays at 6:30 & Sundays at 10:30

Wednesdays at 5:50 with Teacher Marlene Robinson

Chamber Member Vonnya Pettigrew of Root Branch Media Group is is an award-winning media production and communications firm headquartered in Baltimore City’s Woodberry community. Root Branch is 100% African American and Woman Owned with MBE and WBE certification in the state of Maryland services include creative development, story-boarding, script writing, casting,
cinematography, photography, sound design, graphic design, web design and live streaming. RBMG produce media campaigns,
commercials, promotional videos, training videos, television programming, radio spots, short films and documentaries.
RBMG offers a COVID compliant safe certified production studio fully outfitted with the industry’s standard top of the line
equipment including 4K Black Magic Cameras, Sennheiser Microphones, Aperture Lighting, Teleprompter, Dolly Tracks, and a
multitude of backdrops and green screen. The in-house editing suite is equipped with Adobe Premier and is backed up on our
G-Drive media storage.

To learn more about Root Branch Media Group visit https://www.rootbranchmediagroup.com

Chamber Member Joanna Bartholomew of O'Hara Development Partners are restoring communities one block at a time! "Reducing vacant houses and vacant lots not only leads to an attractive area to reside in, but it improves one’s mental health and overall quality of life." Many studies have demonstrated that adding trees to empty lots and lessening trash results in a reduction in the reported number of depression cases in an area.

To learn more about how you can become a Donor or Sponsor, visit https://www.oharacdc.org/sponsor. If you would like to discuss in more detail how you or your organization can volunteer or provide any additional support, please send an email to info@oharadev.com.
Chamber Member Wayne S. Stewart of Stewart Design Agency
Company Overview & Offer: Has COVID-19 made you take a hard look at your digital branding? Does your organization need a new website? With over 14 years of experience designing and building custom internet based applications, Stewart Design Agency a Minority Certified Business, can take your business online presents to the next level. We offer exceptional, digital branding, custom website design/development, web application hosting, social media management and content management system training. Book your FREE Consultation today by clicking the link below.
 

Website Address: www.sdagency.net
E-mail Address: info@sdagency.net
Phone Number: 443-429-0494
Contact Person: Wayne S. Stewart
Chamber Member Yolanda Harrison offers Life Insurance, Retirement, and Financial Repair Specialist assistance for anyone looking for a healthy financial situation, she assists with getting on a sound plan, protected, and prepared. The key to transforming financial situations begins with customized services.
Schedule a free financial consultation, today at yolandaharrison.org/home or info@yolandaharrison.org
Want Your Business Highlighted in
Our Weekly Emails?
Please email us at info@baltimorecitychamber.org in order to be featured in our Weekly Messages from the Chairwoman.

In the email please include the following:
  • Business name
  • Brief 4-7 sentences explaining what your company does and the product/ service that you would like to be highlighted.
  • A link to your website
  • An email and/or number for members to contact you
Follow us on our Socials
What to expect:

  • Daily Inspirational Quotes
  • Motivational Videos
  • Updates on Events
Did this message land in your spam or promotions folder?

Sincerely,

Kimberly Castle Royster
Chairwoman
Baltimore City Chamber of Commerce 443-860-2020 www.baltimorecitychamber.org