Maryland Means Business: News, Stories and Insights

A Baltimore poultry company that's been building in Maryland for generations breaks ground on 140 new jobs near BWI, and four Montgomery County companies pull in nearly $118 million in a single month. Cal and Chessie ask what old money and new money have in common this week.Sources:Holly Poultry Adding 140 Jobs With New Anne Arundel County Facility | Maryland Department of Commerce | https://business.maryland.gov/news/holly-poultry-expands-maryland-manufacturing-efforts/Montgomery County Companies Pull In $117.66 Million in August Funding | Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation | https://thinkmoco.com/success-stories/four-montgomery-county-companies-raised-over-117-million-in-august/Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

A Gambrills shopping center closes in on full occupancy with four new leases, and the state opens a fresh round of grants aimed at the neighborhoods still waiting on a real grocery store. Cal and Chessie ask what "filling the gap" actually looks like, from a strip mall parking lot to a food desert.Sources:Gambrills Shopping Center Hits 97% Occupancy as Four New Tenants Sign On | Crofton, MD Patch | https://patch.com/maryland/crofton/4-new-stores-coming-anne-arundel-county-shopping-centerMaryland Opens FY2027 NourishMD Grant Round for Fresh-Food Retailers in Food Deserts | Office of Governor Wes Moore | https://governor.maryland.gov/news/press-releases/governor-moore-announces-fiscal-year-2027-application-round-nourishmd-grant-programSponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

A Black-owned convenience store throws open its doors in Clinton, a fourth-generation family business breaks ground on a headquarters built for its next chapter, and a new facility at the Port of Baltimore gives Maryland farmers a direct line to markets on three continents. Three stories, one thread: Maryland's business map keeps getting wider, from a single storefront to a global supply chain.Sources:Black-Owned K&T Market Place Opens Its Doors in Clinton | Clinton, MD Patch | https://patch.com/maryland/clinton-md/calendar/event/20260906/05667bea-b399-4b5f-8db2-9579a011280c/k-t-market-place-grand-openingSaval Foods Breaks Ground on New Howard County Headquarters, Adding 107 Jobs | Office of Governor Wes Moore | https://governor.maryland.gov/news/press-releases/governor-moore-announces-new-saval-foods-headquarters-and-distribution-center-howard-countyPort of Baltimore Opens New Grain Export Facility to Connect Maryland Farmers to Global Markets | Office of Governor Wes Moore | https://governor.maryland.gov/news/press-releases/moore-miller-administration-announces-new-grain-transloading-facility-port-baltimoreSponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

A D.C. restaurant chain packs up its ovens and its whole headquarters for Prince George's County, and Northrop Grumman puts $100 million of its own money on top of years of state seed funding at a Cecil County site. Two very different companies, same decision: go all in on Maryland.Sources:Founding Farmers Moves HQ to Maryland | Maryland Department of Commerce | https://business.maryland.gov/news/founding-farmers-moves-hq-to-maryland/Governor Moore and Northrop Grumman Celebrate Ribbon Cutting for New Propulsion Innovation Center in Elkton | Office of Governor Wes Moore | https://governor.maryland.gov/news/press-releases/governor-moore-and-northrop-grumman-celebrate-ribbon-cutting-new-propulsion-innovation-centerSponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

A Rockville engineer trades 30 years in tech for a music school of his own, and Governor Moore makes Maryland one of the only states in the country to put recovery support in writing for its own workforce. Two very different second chances, one throughline: Maryland betting on people who are starting over.Sources:Governor Moore Signs Executive Order Making Maryland a Recovery-Friendly Workplace | Office of Governor Wes Moore | https://governor.maryland.gov/news/press-releases/governor-moore-signs-executive-order-making-maryland-recovery-friendly-workplaceSchool of Rock Rockville Grand Opening | Rockville, MD Patch | https://patch.com/maryland/rockville/calendar/event/20260905/1151aeda-f910-48df-9ed2-07911daecaed/school-of-rock-rockville-grand-openingSponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

A Baltimore biotech company takes its AI eye-scanning technology on the road to New Orleans clinics, Maryland rolls out a statewide map for finding funding and cutting red tape, and a ten-year-old Montgomery County bank quietly proves clean energy financing actually works. Cal and Chessie break down the numbers, the catches, and why all three stories are really about tools built once and used everywhere.Sources:Baltimore startup JuneBrain brings its eye and brain scanning tech to Louisiana clinics | Technical.ly | https://technical.ly/entrepreneurship/junebrain-tests-ai-retinal-imaging-louisiana-clinics/Governor Moore Announces Expanded Maryland Community Compass Platform to Help Community Developers Revitalize their Neighborhoods | Office of Governor Wes Moore | https://governor.maryland.gov/news/press-releases/expanded-maryland-community-compass-platform-help-revitalize-neighborhoodsThe Montgomery County Green Bank is Celebrating a Decade of Expanding Access to Clean Energy Locally | thinkmoco.com | https://thinkmoco.com/success-stories/the-montgomery-county-green-bank-is-celebrating-a-decade-of-expanding-access-to-clean-energy-locally/Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

A soul food carryout opens on the Eastern Shore straight out of a small business academy, a Montgomery County lab launches its own pipeline of young scientists, and Baltimore City just green-lit almost $1.6 billion in redevelopment. Plus: what every Maryland employer needs to do this month about the state's new paid leave program.Sources:Business academy graduate opens restaurant in Cambridge | Maryland Department of Commerce | https://business.maryland.gov/news/business-academy-graduate-opens-restaurant-in-cambridge/Integrated Pharma drives workforce development in Montgomery County | Maryland Department of Commerce | https://business.maryland.gov/news/integrated-pharma-drives-workforce-development-in-montgomery-county/Governor Moore Announces Employer Registration for Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance Is Live | Office of Governor Wes Moore | https://governor.maryland.gov/news/press-releases/governor-moore-announces-employer-registration-paid-family-and-medical-leave-insuranceBDC Advances Three Major Investments to Drive Baltimore's Economic Growth | Baltimore Development Corporation | https://baltimoredevelopment.com/bdc-advances-three-major-investments-to-drive-baltimores-economic-growth/Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

Today's episode isn't about Maryland chasing something new, it's about Maryland betting bigger on what's already working: a Johns Hopkins lab discovery turned product, a Columbia health-tech company getting a second round of state money, and Northrop Grumman investing again in a state it's called home for decades.Sources:Baltimore's Nuquantic Licenses Johns Hopkins Tech for a Cheaper Way to Test Water | Technical.ly Baltimore | https://technical.ly/baltimore/Maryland Puts $3 Million Behind Six Small and Minority-Owned Businesses | business.maryland.gov | https://business.maryland.gov/news/3-million-awarded-for-small-and-minority-businesses-in-maryland/Northrop Grumman Opens $20M Spacecraft Manufacturing Facility in Hanover | business.maryland.gov | https://business.maryland.gov/news/northrop-grumman-bolsters-maryland-manufacturing-footprint/Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

Maryland's makerspace initiative just hit 69 funded projects statewide, proving big impact doesn't need one big building. Plus, the state puts $28.5 million behind electric buses, trucks and charging infrastructure right as gas prices climb again.Sources:Maryland Awards $28.5 Million to Electrify School Buses, Trucks and Chargers as Gas Prices Rise | Office of Governor Wes Moore | https://governor.maryland.gov/news/press-releases/maryland-awards-285-million-lower-costs-electrify-transport-gas-prices-riseMaryland's Statewide Makerspace Network Hits 69 Projects on $3.15 Million in State Funding | Technical.ly | https://technical.ly/sponsored-articles/maryland-makerspace-network-community-infrastructure-tedco/Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

A vending machine test pays off with a real Pop Mart store at Arundel Mills, a mother-son paddle brand out of Anne Arundel County ships pickleball gear as far as Spain, and a Lanham seafood spot marks ten years by turning one location into more than sixty. Cal and Chessie trace the thread connecting all three: bet small, prove it works, then scale.Sources:GRAFTON Pickleball Builds a National Paddle Brand Out of Anne Arundel County | business.maryland.gov | https://business.maryland.gov/news/paddle-up-grafton-pickleball-serves-quality-sports-products/Hook & Reel's Original Lanham Location Marks 10 Years, Now 60+ Locations Strong | Bowie, MD Patch | https://patch.com/maryland/bowie/lanham-seafood-restaurant-celebrates-10-years-60-locations-nationwidePop Mart's Robo Shop Bet Pays Off With a Full Arundel Mills Store | Odenton, MD Patch | https://patch.com/maryland/odenton/pop-mart-holds-grand-opening-arundel-mills-mallSponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

After a week that ran entirely through the Governor's office, Maryland business gets back down to street level: a Columbia bakery breaking ground on a bigger commissary, a Bethesda grooming lounge opening its doors, and Cockeysville's newest sandwich shop getting ready for opening day. Cal and Chessie walk through what it takes to grow a real storefront in Maryland right now.Sources:Roggenart Bakery to Build New Headquarters and Commissary in Columbia | Columbia, MD Patch | https://patch.com/maryland/columbia/roggenart-open-new-headquarters-central-commissary-columbiaHammer & Nails Opens Its First Montgomery County Location in Bethesda | Bethesda-Chevy Chase, MD Patch | https://patch.com/maryland/bethesda-chevychase/luxury-mens-salon-opens-downtown-bethesdaPotbelly Opens Second Baltimore County Location in Cockeysville | Hunt Valley-Cockeysville, MD Patch | https://patch.com/maryland/huntvalley/new-sandwich-shop-coming-cockeysville-monthSponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

Three fresh moves out of Annapolis this week: a zero-interest loan fund for nursing students, $14.7 million to grow Maryland's own teacher pipeline, and a 20-year solar deal the state says will save $300 million. Cal and Chessie break down what each one actually means for the people paying attention to their bottom line.Sources:State of Maryland and Social Finance Announce Maryland Pay It Forward Fund to Strengthen Maryland's Nursing Workforce | Office of Governor Wes Moore | https://governor.maryland.gov/news/press-releases/state-maryland-and-social-finance-announce-maryland-pay-it-forward-fundGovernor Moore Announces $14.7 Million in Grow Your Own Educators Grants, Supporting 845 Educators | Office of Governor Wes Moore | https://governor.maryland.gov/news/press-releases/governor-moore-announces-147-million-grow-your-own-educators-grants-supporting-845-educatorsMaryland Announces Landmark Solar Energy Agreement Expected to Save $300 Million While Advancing Clean Energy Goals | Office of Governor Wes Moore | https://governor.maryland.gov/news/press-releases/maryland-announces-landmark-solar-energy-agreement-expected-save-300-million-while-advancing-cleSponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

A Rockville drugmaker merges into a $2.2 billion company and somehow keeps the headquarters right where it started, four Montgomery County healthcare leaders get national recognition, and a British quantum computing company shows up in College Park just days after we told you the jobs were coming. Cal and Chessie break down what all three mean for Maryland owners.Sources:Four Montgomery County Life Sciences Leaders Named to Washington Business Journal's Innovators in HealthCare List | Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation | https://thinkmoco.com/success-stories/four-montgomery-county-life-sciences-leaders-named-to-the-washington-business-journals-innovators-in-healthcare-list/British Quantum Computing Company Quantum Motion Expands to Maryland's Discovery District | Maryland Department of Commerce | https://business.maryland.gov/news/marylands-discovery-district-gains-british-quantum-company/Rockville-Based Supernus Pharmaceuticals and Virginia-Based Indivior Pharmaceuticals Announce Merger | Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation | https://thinkmoco.com/success-stories/rockville-based-supernus-pharmaceuticals-inc-and-virginia-based-indivior-pharmaceuticals-announce-merger/Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

A hundred-year-old family jeweler bets on a fourth Maryland store, a Pokemon card show proves treating customers fairly is good business, and the University of Maryland starts training tomorrow's quantum workforce today. Three very different bets, all playing the long game.Sources:Century-Old Smyth Jewelers Announces Fourth Maryland Store, Coming to Bel Air This Fall | Patch (Bel Air, MD) | https://patch.com/maryland/belair/century-old-jeweler-opening-new-store-bel-airMaryland Company's Pokemon Card Show Bans Scalpers, Feeds Thousands, Finds Homes for Shelter Pets | Patch (Glen Burnie, MD) | https://patch.com/maryland/glenburnie/thousands-flock-glen-burnie-pokmon-card-show-after-sealed-card-banUMD's Frontier Technology Institute Is Building Maryland's Next Quantum Workforce, One High Schooler at a Time | Technical.ly | https://technical.ly/workforce/frontier-technology-institute-umd-quantum-high-school/Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

Maryland's growth streak keeps stacking up at every scale this week: 120 companies land on Inc. 5000's fastest-growing list, a new Amazon delivery hub brings jobs to the Eastern Shore, and an AI company doubles its National Harbor headquarters. Cal and Chessie break down what all three actually mean for Maryland business owners.Sources:Inc. 5000 names Maryland's fastest growing companies in 2026 | Maryland Department of Commerce (business.maryland.gov) | https://business.maryland.gov/news/inc-5000-names-marylands-fastest-growing-companies-in-2026/Salisbury gains new Amazon delivery facility | Maryland Department of Commerce (business.maryland.gov) | https://business.maryland.gov/news/salisbury-gains-new-amazon-delivery-facility/Governor Moore Announces Cloudforce Chooses Maryland for Major AI Platform Expansion, Bringing 250 New Jobs to the State | Office of Governor Wes Moore | https://governor.maryland.gov/news/press-releases/governor-moore-announces-cloudforce-chooses-maryland-major-ai-platform-expansionSponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

Montgomery County just cut its permitting timeline in half for job-creating projects, a Maryland-rooted startup raised $10 million to build a commercial fusion reactor, and Baltimore's AI health accelerator has a new leader for its fourth cohort. Cal and Chessie break down what each one actually means for Maryland business owners this week.Sources:Maryland-Rooted Terra Fusion Raises $10 Million Seed Round to Build a Commercial Fusion Reactor | Technical.ly | https://technical.ly/entrepreneurship/energy-startups-race-to-power-ai-infrastructure/Montgomery County Council Approves Zoning Change to Cut Permitting Time in Half for Job-Creating Projects | Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC) | https://thinkmoco.com/success-stories/montgomery-county-council-approves-job-creation-project-zta-initiative/Former EcoMap COO Smitha Gopal Named Managing Director of Techstars AI Health Baltimore | Technical.ly | https://technical.ly/entrepreneurship/baltimore-techstars-ai-health-director-smitha-gopal-maryland-power-moves/Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

Cal and Chessie tally up a big money week for Maryland: two more Baltimore raises for Sonavex and Vigilant Sec, TEDCO backing thirteen research and entrepreneurship projects across Johns Hopkins, Morgan State, and MICA, and Columbia's Balance Theory closing a $19 million Series A to grow its cybersecurity platform.Sources:Columbia's Balance Theory raises $19M Series A to grow its cybersecurity software | Technical.ly | https://technical.ly/entrepreneurship/balance-theory-raises-19m-series-a-maryland-money-moves/TEDCO puts $665,000 into 13 Baltimore-area research and entrepreneurship projects | Technical.ly | https://technical.ly/entrepreneurship/balance-theory-raises-19m-series-a-maryland-money-moves/Two more Baltimore companies raise fresh capital: Sonavex and Vigilant Sec | Technical.ly | https://technical.ly/entrepreneurship/balance-theory-raises-19m-series-a-maryland-money-moves/Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

Cal and Chessie cover Big Chicken's first standalone Maryland restaurant in Gambrills, a fresh deal bringing South Australian wine to Total Wine's shelves, a heads-up on a new executive order steering state construction dollars toward Maryland-grown lumber, and a Baltimore biochemist's bet on funding the state's next wave of medtech startups.Sources:Big Chicken Opens Its First Standalone Maryland Location in Gambrills | Patch (Crofton) | https://patch.com/maryland/crofton/amp/34590920/shaquille-oneals-big-chicken-opens-1st-md-eatery-this-weekMaryland's Total Wine Signs Deal to Promote South Australian Wines Stateside | Maryland Department of Commerce | https://business.maryland.gov/news/marylands-total-wine-to-promote-south-australian-wines-stateside/Executive Order Could Mean Big Things for Maryland Forestry Businesses | Maryland Department of Commerce | https://business.maryland.gov/news/executive-order-could-mean-big-things-for-maryland-forestry-businesses/From Biochemistry to Venture Funding: Fehmida Kapadia Building Maryland's Medtech Pipeline | Technical.ly | https://technical.ly/entrepreneurship/fehmida-kapadia-fay-ventures-medtech-fund-fehmida-kapadia-how-i-got-here/Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

Maryland writes some big checks this week: the state completes its buyback of full ownership of the Preakness Stakes, Montgomery County approves its first-ever tax increment financing deal for a $2.8 billion life sciences neighborhood next to the FDA, and a 60-year-old Southern Maryland manufacturer reinvests in its own factory floor. Also on deck: Montgomery County's July investment numbers, led by a Rockville gene therapy company's Nasdaq offering.Sources:Victor Stanley Expands Manufacturing Presence in Maryland | Maryland Department of Commerce | https://business.maryland.gov/news/victor-stanley-expands-manufacturing-presence-in-maryland/Governor Moore Announces Maryland Fully Owns Preakness Intellectual Property Rights | Office of Governor Wes Moore | https://governor.maryland.gov/news/press-releases/governor-moore-announces-maryland-fully-owns-preakness-intellectual-property-rightsMontgomery County Companies Raise Over $90 Million in Investment in July | Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation (ThinkMoco) | https://thinkmoco.com/success-stories/montgomery-county-companies-raise-over-90-million-in-investment-in-july/Montgomery County Council Approves Tax Increment Financing Bonds for Viva White Oak Development | Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation (ThinkMoco) | https://thinkmoco.com/success-stories/the-montgomery-county-council-approves-tax-increment-financing-bonds-for-viva-white-oak-development/Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

A national retailer throws a three-day grand opening in Annapolis with two Ravens legends at the ribbon-cutting, a Baltimore health-tech startup born out of an actual Ravens recovery story crosses 700 student athletes, and a Columbia founder bets his own consulting playbook on the AI agent boom. Cal and Chessie dig into who's actually earning attention in Maryland business this week, and who's just riding a wave.Sources:DICK's House of Sport Sets August 14 Grand Opening in Annapolis, With Ed Reed and Derrick Henry Appearances | Patch (Annapolis, MD) | https://patch.com/maryland/annapolis/august-grand-opening-date-set-annapolis-dicks-house-sportBaltimore Health-Tech Startup My Health Data Grows to 700 Student Athletes After $45,000 Raise | Technical.ly Baltimore | https://technical.ly/entrepreneurship/my-health-data-app-student-athlete-medical-records/Founder Launches Missionmind.ai, a Columbia, MD Custom AI Agent Venture | Technical.ly Baltimore | https://technical.ly/entrepreneurship/dinesh-ganesan-launches-missionmind-ai-custom-agents/Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

The Ravens just signed a 40-year lease to stay put in Baltimore County, backed by a $120 million public-private deal. Same week, the state put $5 million behind apprenticeship programs and $17.7 million behind university research professorships. Cal and Chessie dig into what a state investing in its own team, its own workforce, and its own researchers says about how Maryland actually plays the long game.Sources:Baltimore Ravens sign 40-year lease extension, recommitting to Baltimore County headquarters | Maryland Department of Commerce | https://business.maryland.gov/news/ravens-recommit-to-baltimore-county-hq-for-decades/Governor Moore announces $5 million in awards to expand registered apprenticeship programs statewide | Office of Governor Wes Moore | https://governor.maryland.gov/news/press-releases/governor-moore-announces-5-million-awards-expand-registered-apprenticeship-opportunitiesMaryland awards $17.7 million to endow new research professorships at four universities | Maryland Department of Commerce | https://business.maryland.gov/news/17-7-million-going-to-fund-new-research-professorships/Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

A Baltimore research institute just swapped a quarter-million-dollar lab for a smartphone, Talbot County became the first place in Maryland with internet everywhere, and two state grant programs are opening doors for small manufacturers and food deserts alike. Cal and Chessie break down what each means for Maryland business owners.Sources:Kennedy Krieger Institute turns smartphone video into rehabilitation therapy | Technical.ly | https://technical.ly/entrepreneurship/kennedy-krieger-smartphones-replace-motion-capture/Talbot County becomes Maryland's first county with 100% high-speed internet coverage | Maryland Department of Commerce (business.maryland.gov) | https://business.maryland.gov/news/talbot-county-achieves-high-speed-internet-milestone/Maryland Manufacturing 4.0 Grant Program opens for applications August 3 | Maryland Department of Commerce | https://commerce.maryland.gov/fund/maryland-manufacturing-4-0Governor Moore announces nearly $4 million in NourishMD grants to 44 organizations across 18 counties | Office of Governor Wes Moore | https://governor.maryland.gov/news/press-releases/governor-moore-announces-nearly-4-million-nourishmd-grants-expand-fresh-food-access-food-dSponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

A Carroll County main street just won one of only three national awards handed out this year, Maryland's tax system is about to go dark for ten days, and two local founders are building technology serious enough for a hospital and a ballpark gate. Cal and Chessie break down what each means for Maryland business owners.Sources:Downtown Sykesville wins one of only three Great American Main Street Awards given nationwide | Maryland Department of Commerce | https://business.maryland.gov/news/downtown-sykesville-boasts-award-winning-charm/Maryland businesses face August 20 cutoff before state tax system goes offline for 10 days | Patch (Bel Air) | https://patch.com/maryland/belair/maryland-taxpayers-face-deadlines-online-system-outageBaltimore and Greenbelt startups among five DMV founders betting on dual-use government and private-sector tech | Technical.ly | https://technical.ly/entrepreneurship/dmv-startups-bet-on-dual-use-growth/Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

Montgomery College just opened the first community-college-based advanced manufacturing floor in the country, built alongside satellite company Hughes Network Systems. Maryland's state government is legally paying outside researchers to break into its own websites, and it's already fixed 200 vulnerabilities because of it. And a Taiwan-based biotech company just bet $122.5 million that Rockville is where the next generation of drugs gets made.Sources:Hughes Network Systems and Montgomery College open the country's first community-college-based advanced manufacturing facility | Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC) | https://thinkmoco.com/success-stories/local-workforce-partnerships-make-talent-in-montgomery-county-maryland-a-guarantee/Maryland crowdsources cybersecurity to defend state networks -- and it's working | Technical.ly | https://technical.ly/civics/maryland-cybersecurity-vulnerability-disclosure-bugcrowd/Bora Pharmaceuticals launches new biologics manufacturing facility in Rockville | Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC) | https://thinkmoco.com/success-stories/montgomery-county-celebrates-launch-of-bora-pharmaceuticals-new-biologics-manufacturing-facility-in-rockville/Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

Maryland becomes the only state teaching AI chatbots how to read its own website, a Philadelphia cybersecurity founder crosses state lines for a Howard County accelerator, and a single nuclear startup pulls Maryland's venture funding numbers off the charts. Cal keeps score, Chessie brings the people.Sources:Maryland becomes the first state to publish an AI chatbot roadmap for its own website | Technical.ly | https://technical.ly/civics/maryland-uses-llms-txt-to-guide-ai-chatbots/Howard County's cyber accelerator lures an out-of-state founder to Maryland | Technical.ly | https://technical.ly/civics/howard-county-uses-cyber-accelerator-to-attract-out-of-state-tech/A $380 million nuclear bet sends Maryland's venture funding soaring | Technical.ly | https://technical.ly/entrepreneurship/baltimore-maryland-q2-2026-venture-capital-pitchbook/Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

A Bowie founder built an AI tool that grades your mechanic's estimate before you say yes to the repair. Governor Moore just kicked off Buy Local Week and there's an $8 billion reason to take it seriously. And Cal closes with the kind of number Chessie's rule was made for: $13.3 billion kept out of Maryland ratepayers' pockets thanks to a regional power deal.Sources:A Bowie Founder Built an AI Tool That Tells Drivers If Their Mechanic Is Overcharging Them | Technical.ly Baltimore | https://technical.ly/entrepreneurship/fairride-ai-mechanic-overcharge-score/Governor Moore Declares Buy Local Week as Maryland's $8 Billion Agriculture Economy Gets Its Yearly Spotlight | Office of Governor Wes Moore | https://governor.maryland.gov/news/press-releases/governor-moore-declares-july-17-25-buy-local-weekA Regional Power Deal Just Saved Maryland Ratepayers and Businesses $13.3 Billion on Electricity | Office of Governor Wes Moore | https://governor.maryland.gov/news/press-releases/governor-moore-announces-pjm-price-cap-saved-customers-133-billion-electricity-costsSponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

Maryland bets on the long game this episode: a comic shop that waited years before finally opening in Glen Burnie, a longevity economy quietly worth 1.7 million jobs, and $20 million proving a 60-year-old fund still holds up the state's $4 billion boating industry. Cal chases the numbers, Chessie chases the people behind them, and both come away convinced Maryland is playing for the decade, not just the headline.Sources:Third Eye Comics Opens Its Ninth Location, a 10,000-Square-Foot Store in Glen Burnie | Patch (Glen Burnie, MD) | https://patch.com/maryland/glenburnie/popular-comics-store-hold-grand-openingThe Longevity Opportunity: How Maryland's Ecosystems Are Helping People Live Longer, Healthier Lives | Maryland Department of Commerce | https://business.maryland.gov/news/the-longevity-opportunity-how-marylands-ecosystems-are-helping-people-live-longer-healthier-lives/Governor Moore Announces Maryland Waterway Improvement Fund Provides $20 Million in Capital Grants for Public Boating Access, Navigable Waterways, and Safety | Office of Governor Wes Moore | https://governor.maryland.gov/news/press-releases/governor-moore-announces-maryland-waterway-improvement-fund-provides-20-million-capital-grantsSponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

Wonder's food hall concept hits its eighth Maryland location in Bowie, the state quietly redraws three Enterprise Zones with real tax dollars behind them, and Montgomery County posts one of its biggest investment months in recent memory. Cal breaks down the numbers, Chessie brings the local color, and this episode proves the growth is spreading well beyond the usual zip codes.Sources:Governor Moore Expands Enterprise Zones in Baltimore City, Kent County, and Frederick County | Office of Governor Wes Moore | https://governor.maryland.gov/news/press-releases/governor-moore-announces-expanded-redesignated-enterprise-zones-marylandWonder Food Hall Set to Open Its Eighth Maryland Location in Bowie | Patch (Bowie, MD) | https://patch.com/maryland/bowie/mark-your-calendars-date-set-bowie-food-halls-openingMontgomery County Companies Pulled in $368.3 Million in Investment in June | Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation | https://thinkmoco.com/success-stories/montgomery-county-companies-attracted-368-3-million-in-investment-in-june/Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

Pop Mart announces its first Anne Arundel County store at Arundel Mills, Johns Hopkins runs its first-ever accelerator built for alumni founders who missed the university's entrepreneurship boom, and Governor Moore awards $5 million in heritage grants tied to a program that generates $2.4 billion a year for Maryland's economy.Sources:Pop Mart to Open 1st Anne Arundel Co. Store This Summer | Patch (Odenton) | https://patch.com/maryland/odenton/pop-mart-open-1st-anne-arundel-co-store-summerJohns Hopkins Launches First Alumni Accelerator | Technical.ly | https://technical.ly/entrepreneurship/johns-hopkins-launches-first-alumni-accelerator/Governor Moore Announces $5 Million in FY27 Maryland Heritage Grant Awards to Promote Local Economic Development | Office of Governor Wes Moore | https://governor.maryland.gov/news/press-releases/governor-moore-announces-5-million-fy27-maryland-heritage-grant-awards-promote-local-economySponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

Wonder food hall opens its doors in Glen Burnie on its way to eight Maryland locations, a $1.23 million state investment trains nearly 600 workers for AI-era jobs, and Montgomery County's X-energy tells the story of going from fewer than 50 employees to a billion-dollar Nasdaq IPO.Sources:Wonder food hall holds grand opening in Glen Burnie | Glen Burnie Patch | https://patch.com/maryland/glenburnie/popular-food-hall-host-2-md-grand-openings-monthGovernor Moore Announces Awardees for $1.23 Million Investment to Help Maryland Workers Thrive in a Changing Economy | Office of Governor Wes Moore | https://governor.maryland.gov/news/press-releases/governor-moore-announces-awardees-123-million-investment-help-maryland-workers-thriveFrom Startup to Nasdaq: MCEDC Fireside Chat Explored X-energy's Explosive Growth in Montgomery County, Maryland | MCEDC | https://thinkmoco.com/success-stories/from-startup-to-nasdaq-mcedc-fireside-chat-explored-x-energys-explosive-growth-in-montgomery-county-maryland/Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

Platform Aerospace plans several hundred new jobs in St. Mary's County, Spanish cybersecurity firm Nunsys lands in Columbia, Bob's Discount Furniture opens its doors in Catonsville with checks for two local causes, and the BioHealth Capital Region earns a top-three national ranking for the fourth year running.Sources:Furniture Store Holds Grand Opening In Catonsville | Catonsville Patch | https://patch.com/maryland/catonsville/furniture-store-holds-grand-opening-catonsvilleSpain tech company finds valuable ecosystem in Maryland | Maryland Dept. of Commerce | https://business.maryland.gov/news/spain-tech-company-finds-valuable-ecosystem-in-maryland/Platform Aerospace plans for hundreds of new jobs in St. Mary's County | Maryland Dept. of Commerce | https://business.maryland.gov/news/platform-aerospace-plans-for-hundreds-of-new-jobs/Life sciences thrive in Maryland's innovation ecosystem | Maryland Dept. of Commerce | https://business.maryland.gov/news/life-sciences-thrive-in-marylands-innovation-ecosystem/Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

Discover how a major defense tech facility brings jobs and innovation to Maryland, even as a new "tech tax" sparks statewide business concerns and federal tax changes reshape the landscape.Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

From multi-million dollar site investments to vibrant local businesses, discover how Maryland is building for tomorrow while celebrating today's community spirit.Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

Discover how Maryland is investing in workforce training for high-demand careers while navigating new tax policies and pioneering healthcare technology advancements.Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

From federal funding freezes to multi-million dollar fraud, uncover Maryland's latest challenges.Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

Discover how Maryland is redefining its cannabis industry, prioritizing community feedback and empowering disadvantaged businesses with the nation's first incubator.Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

Explore how Maryland businesses face a $1.6B tax increase, including a new 'tech tax,' while the state grapples with its deep reliance on federal funds.Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

Get a concise overview of the latest laws in Maryland, Virginia, and D.C., including tech taxes and tenant rights, plus insights into Maryland's strategic push for a tech-driven economy.Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

Families and businesses concerned as tariffs threaten youth sports budgets.Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

Discover how Maryland is actively challenging federal funding cuts while simultaneously celebrating a diverse range of companies recognized for their exceptional workplaces and innovative contributions.Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

For the sixth time, APG Federal Credit Union earns top honors in Maryland for 2025, praised for its trusted service by Forbes and Statista.Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

Discover a dog park cafe, a 100-year-old pizzeria, and JCPenney's Annapolis Mall closure in this week's business news.Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

Hemp businesses sue Maryland over "unconstitutional" cannabis licensing and product seizures.Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

City Side Auto Body, a woman-owned business, expands operations into a new 10,000 sq ft facility in Prince George's County.Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

Brace for Maryland's new 3% sales and use tax on a wide range of data and IT services, effective July 1, 2025.Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

An anti-Trump rally sees a unique resolution between opposing views.Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

Governor Wes Moore announces nearly $460,000 in unprecedented state funding to aid Allegany County residents devastated by May's historic floods, marking a new era of disaster recovery in Maryland.Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

From a $1.1 billion tech acquisition by Maryland's own IonQ to new Wegmans and Trader Joe's making grocery waves, and the best crab cakes sparking debate, dive into the state's most captivating business and community updates.Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

Unpack the most impactful stories from across Maryland, including a Davidsonville business owner found murdered in a burning truck, a teacher facing sex offense charges in Baltimore County, and a firefighter saving a dog from a burning home in Anne Arundel County. Plus, discover 12 new Maryland laws that took effect on June 1, 2025.Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business

Governor Wes Moore just launched the Maryland Community Investment Venture Fund, a $2.5 million initiative designed to boost small businesses in low-to-moderate-income communities. This fund provides grants up to $50,000 to financial technology firms (fintechs) to pilot new products and services, aiming to close the racial wealth gap, create jobs, and supercharge Maryland's economy.Sponsored by Maryland Smart Energy — smarter buildings, smaller bills. Utility-funded energy programs for Maryland businesses, nothing out of pocket. https://mdsmartenergy.comProduced with AI. https://marylandmeans.business