This year marked a major milestone for our economic development partners at the Frederick County Office of Economic Development (FCOED): the 25th anniversary of Business Appreciation Week (BAW), a beloved tradition that honors the businesses fueling our community’s growth and vitality.
Since its inception, BAW has been a cornerstone of Economic Development Week in Maryland, spotlighting the diverse and dynamic companies that make Frederick County thrive. This year’s celebration was especially meaningful, as ambassador teams revisited more than 50 legacy businesses—many of which were part of the very first BAW 25 years ago.
A Journey of Resilience and Growth
Ambassador teams made up of County and City Economic Development staff, partner organizations and elected officials spent the week reconnecting with dozens of long-standing businesses. The visits were more than ceremonial—they were heartfelt conversations about perseverance, innovation, and community impact.
Jodie Bollinger, Department Director, FCOED, shared, “Our team, along with our partners, visited more than fifty legacy businesses across Frederick County to thank them for their continued contributions and provide valuable resources. This was a special year as we heard these companies share stories of resilience, growth, and success. It was such an inspirational week celebrating the strength and spirit of our business community.”
Honoring the Past, Investing in the Future
The theme of this year’s BAW—legacy and longevity—was a powerful reminder of how far Frederick County has come. These businesses have weathered economic shifts, embraced innovation, and remained committed to creating jobs and investing in the region’s future.
As city economic development partners, we were honored to serve as ambassadors once again. It was such an amazing experience to witness firsthand how these companies continue to shape Maryland’s fastest-growing region.
“We are grateful to be part of this tradition and proud to support all the businesses that help shape Frederick’s vibrant economy,” shared Mary Ford-Naill, Manager of Economic Development, The City of Frederick.
To see the full list of participating businesses and learn more about Business Appreciation Week, visit this link.
If you own a business within the City of Frederick and would like to request a site visit from a member of our economic development team, reach out to schedule a meeting: click here.