SelectUSA: Showcasing Frederick to International Companies

In May, the City and County of Frederick Economic Development teams participated in Select USA Investment Summit, hosted at National Harbor, in Oxon Hill, Maryland. The annual conference is designed to attract international businesses and support their transition into the U.S. market by connecting them with incubators, incentive programs, commercial real estate opportunities, local business networks, and government contracting resources. Over the course of three days, Frederick’s economic development representatives met with international business delegations, site selection consultants, service providers, and fellow economic development organizations from across the world to share Frederick’s story and highlight the community’s strengths as a place to invest, innovate, and grow.

Prior to the conference, Frederick hosted a SelectUSA spinoff tour, during which approximately a dozen international entrepreneurs representing a variety of industries visited Frederick City and County. During their visit, the entrepreneurs toured local biotech and tech companies, met with community and business leaders, and engaged with key stakeholders to better understand the advantages of establishing and expanding operations in Frederick. The tour provided an opportunity to showcase Frederick’s collaborative business environment, strategic location, highly educated workforce, and strong quality of life.

Frederick offers a unique combination of resources, location, culture, and community appeal that makes it the perfect spot for U.S. expansion. Through our alignment with the Maryland Soft Landing Program, international companies get the opportunity to test out the U.S. market at an affordable rate by partnering them with companies to provide access to facilities, resources, advisors, and more. Frederick’s soft-landing incubator, the Frederick Innovation and Technology Center (FITCI), fosters innovation and supports entrepreneurial success by providing world-class resources, coaching, connections, customers, and a vibrant community. This program aims to bridge the gap between global innovators and the U.S. market by leveraging FITCI’s diverse community, CEO Roundtables, and Frederick’s thriving business and social ecosystems. You can learn more about the Maryland Soft Landing Program and FITCI here.

Photo of City Economic Development Team attending SelectUSA Summit

The City, County and State economic development teams work collaboratively with prospects to provide connectivity to programs and resources as well as to support partnering and innovation within the biotech ecosystem. Participation in events like SelectUSA plays an important role in supporting a strong, resilient, and diverse local economy. By building relationships with international companies and industry leaders, Frederick continues to position itself as a competitive destination for investment and job creation. These efforts help strengthen the community’s economic foundation, support opportunities for residents and businesses alike, and contribute to maintaining the high quality of life that makes Frederick such a desirable place to live and work.

To connect with our city, county, and state economic development team and explore international opportunities, you may arrange a meeting with us here.

Frederick's First Spanish Business Mentorship Program

The first ever Spanish speaking business mentorship program Visión Empresarial is a Spanish business mentorship program offered by Centro Hispano de Frederick in close collaboration with Frederick County Office of Economic Development (FCOED), the City of Frederick’s Department of Economic Development (DED), the Maryland Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the Maryland Small Business Development Center. Tailored specifically for Spanish speaking entrepreneurs, this six-week program, modeled after FCOED’s EmPOWER Mentorship program, equips aspiring and emerging entrepreneurs with practical skills to grow and strengthen their business. This program is a collaborative effort led by local partners committed to supporting Fredrick’s small business community, providing participants with hands-on guidance, mentorship, and tools they can immediately apply to their ventures.  In investing both financial resources and staff support, the City helps ensure that aspiring and emerging entrepreneurs have access to the guidance, training, and connections they need to grow successful businesses.

Heather Gramm, Director of Frederick County Division of Economic Opportunity said, “Frederick County has offered the EmPOWER Mentorship Program for several years now with great success. This year we were excited to collaborate with community partners and be able to offer the same impactful program in Spanish. This expansion into Spanish-language programming reflects our commitment to ensuring that all Frederick County residents have access to the tools and support they need to build successful businesses. Between the knowledge and skills they’ve built over the past six weeks, the support of their fellow entrepreneurs, and the opportunity to utilize the EmPOWER Loan Program, this cohort is well-positioned to grow and thrive as business owners in Frederick County.”

Visión Empresarial began as an idea from Ariel Rodriguez Mercado, Managing Director and Wealth Management Advisor for Northwest Mutual. This concept began to take shape when he shared this vision with other community partners like Dr. Suzanne Salichs and Dan Blum with Centro Hispano, and Patricia Mir with the Maryland Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, among others.

“Vision Empresarial is a true collaborative effort; the team at Centro Hispano and Maryland Hispanic Chamber of commerce, led by Dr. Suzanne Salichs and Patricia Mir, played a major role in refining, developing, and executing the program into what it is today. Their leadership and commitment, along with the support of many community partners, helped transform an idea into a meaningful initiative for Frederick's Hispanic business community.

As I reflect on the journey of Vision Empresarial, I am incredibly excited about what lies ahead and the impact this program can continue to have on our community. What began as a simple idea has grown into something meaningful, empowering entrepreneurs with knowledge, confidence, and connections. The success of our first cohort is a testament to the power of collaboration, and I truly believe this is only the beginning of even greater opportunities ahead. Vision creates opportunity; collaboration turns it into reality." - Ariel Rodriguez Mercado

During the six-week course term, participants attended workshops led by the Maryland Small Business Development Center (SBDC), the program’s state partner, who delivered instruction on key business fundamentals such as planning, marketing strategies, financial management, and operations. These sessions are designed to give entrepreneurs the confidence and knowledge needed to navigate common business challenges while building a strong foundation for long-term success, and reviewed these topics:

• Introduction to Entrepreneurship 

• Planning for Your Business

• Managing Your Business 

• Marketing Your Business 

• Growing Your Business

• Doing Business in Frederick/Graduation

The program concluded with a graduation celebration that featured a pitch round for the participants, presentations and support from community partners including insights from city and county economic development on business resources and tools available to local entrepreneurs. Dr. Suzanne Salichs, Ph.D., Executive Director for Centro Hispano, was pivotal in the program’s creation and design. She says of the course, “Centro Hispano’s Mentoría Visión Empresarial was an amazing collaboration. It was exciting to see the business owners engaging, learning, and networking. We appreciate the support and are excited to see the program grow and serve more of our local business owners.” Centro Hispano de Frederick hopes to build on this cohort’s momentum and continue the mission expanding access to entrepreneurship education and support across the community.

The City of Frederick supports programs like Visión Empresarial that strengthen the local entrepreneurial ecosystem. Andie Feldman, Economic Development Specialist (Bilingual) says, "This program demonstrates how intentional investments in language accessibility can drive economic development. Recently the Department has added bilingual capacity to their team to expand our outreach, provide more meaningful support to Latino entrepreneurs, and help more businesses access the tools and mentorship they need to thrive. When more businesses succeed, our entire community benefits through job creation, local investment, and a stronger, and diverse economy."

To learn more about Visión Empresarial and other initiatives that help entrepreneurs grow and succeed, visit the City of Frederick Department of Economic Development’s website.

Frederick Connects with Global Biotech Leaders at BIO International Convention

The City of Frederick Department of Economic Development (DED) joined biotechnology and life sciences leaders from around the world at the BIO International Convention in San Diego, a premier global gathering that brings together biotech companies, investors, researchers, government agencies, and policymakers to advance innovation and partnerships.

Frederick belongs to the Bio Capital Region, consistently ranking among the top 3 bioclusters in the nation. Our participation reflects the City’s continued commitment to growing its life sciences ecosystem, supporting industry partnerships, and positioning Frederick as a hub for research, innovation, and biotechnology advancement. DED attended alongside the Maryland Department of Commerce, connecting with industry leaders and promoting opportunities within Maryland’s thriving life sciences sector.

Richard Griffin, Director of Economic Development for the City of Frederick, providing remarks at the Maryland pavilion.

At the Maryland Pavilion, Richard Griffin, Director of Economic Development for the City of Frederick, highlighted the City’s momentum as a growing hub for biotechnology and innovation. “Growth for us isn’t just about population — it’s about momentum. Momentum in talent, momentum in innovation, and momentum in opportunities,” Griffin shared while inviting BIO attendees to explore Frederick as a location for expansion and investment.

Griffin emphasized Frederick’s strategic location within the Mid-Atlantic innovation corridor, access to major transportation networks, and the strength of its life sciences ecosystem. “Frederick delivers the workforce, the infrastructure, and the collaborative environment needed for large-scale, advanced biomanufacturing,” Griffin said, pointing to the City’s advantages for companies looking to expand.

The convention provided an opportunity to highlight Frederick’s key industry assets, including AstraZeneca and the Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, while engaging with global partners shaping the future of biotechnology. AstraZeneca participated in industry programming, including the sponsored session “R&D for Rare Diseases is Growing: How Will Policy Developments Impact the Future Landscape?” which explored the evolving rare disease research landscape and the impact of policy developments on future innovation. Representatives from the Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research also participated in BIO programming, showcasing Frederick’s role in advancing cancer research, technology transfer, and biomedical collaboration.

Additional Frederick connections were represented through industry leaders such as Kite Pharma, which participated in convention programming focused on advancements across the biotechnology sector. By participating in BIO International Convention, DED continues to strengthen relationships with life sciences companies, investors, and research institutions while sharing Frederick’s unique advantages as a destination for biotechnology innovation, talent, and collaboration.

Navigating Complexity. Embracing Innovation. Driving Impact.: 2026 MEDA Conference

“Navigating Complexity. Embracing Innovation. Driving Impact.” served as the guiding theme for the 2026 Maryland Economic Development Association (MEDA) Annual Conference. This year’s gathering brought together economic development professionals, policymakers, and community leaders from across the state to examine the evolving challenges and opportunities shaping Maryland’s economic future. For the City of Frederick Department of Economic Development (DED), participation in MEDA’s annual conference remains an important opportunity to stay informed on statewide initiatives, strengthen professional partnerships, and bring innovative strategies back to Frederick. MEDA continues to play a critical role in supporting Maryland’s economic development community through advocacy, education, and collaboration that empowers local jurisdictions to foster sustainable growth.

Throughout the conference, a dynamic lineup of sessions and panels offered timely insights into the policies and trends influencing communities across Maryland. The Secretaries Panel provided direct perspectives from state agency leadership on economic priorities, housing, and workforce development, while the Young Leaders reflective session emphasized the importance of mentoring and cultivating the next generation of economic development professionals. One of the conference’s standout sessions, “Economic Outlook: First Brood,” featured Tom Sadowski and renowned economist Anirban Basu, whose analysis offered attendees a deeper understanding of current economic pressures, market trends, and long-term outlooks impacting both local and regional economies. Combined with impactful keynote speakers, these sessions provided valuable education on the importance of resilience, innovation, and strategy in today’s increasingly complex economic environment.

Rock Hall Tour

Attendees also had the opportunity to attend an off-site tour of Rock Hall, led in partnership with the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development. The visit highlighted the successes of Main Street revitalization, heritage tourism, and community-driven economic development in one of Maryland’s distinctive waterfront communities. Exploring Rock Hall’s revitalized downtown and learning about strategic investments showed successful examples of placemaking and revitalization that can inspire similar efforts in communities across the state.

Luncheon & Secretaries Panel

The Annual Conference Luncheon & Secretaries Panel brought together state secretaries and deputy secretaries from Maryland’s most impactful agencies to drive home the critical role economic developers play as architects of systemic change. There, a unified message that transformation requires coordination across agencies, sectors, and levels of government resonated. Reshaping Maryland’s economic landscape requires vision that empowers local governments, state agencies, and economic development organizations to create communities designed for future generations.

(l-r) Allen Etzler, Deputy Chief of Staff, Mary Ford-Naill, Manager of Economic Development, Co-Developer, Richard Griffin, Director of Economic Development, Gayon Sampson, City of Frederick Chief of Staff

The conference concluded with the annual MEDA Awards Ceremony, celebrating outstanding achievements in economic development throughout Maryland. Frederick’s own Visitation Hotel, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, was recognized among this year’s award recipients, highlighting the city’s continued leadership in adaptive reuse, historic preservation, and transformative redevelopment. As DED reflects on the insights and connections gained from this year’s conference, the department remains committed to applying these lessons to support Frederick’s business community and long-term prosperity.

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Businesses and stakeholders are encouraged to connect with DED and learn more about ongoing initiatives by visiting the Department of Economic Development’s website.

Partnership in Action: YMCA Center Expands Opportunity for Frederick’s West Side

“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” Helen Keller’s words rang true as our City’s Economic Development team celebrated the grand opening of the YMCA of Frederick County’s new Westside Program Center on the Golden Mile, a transformative investment that represents far more than a new facility. Strategically located along Route 40 at 1306 W. Patrick Street, Suite 5C, the center establishes a long-awaited hub for collaboration, community programming, and economic revitalization on Frederick’s west side, bringing together the YMCA, Golden Mile Alliance, Children of Incarcerated Parents Partnership (COIPP), Cal Ripken Sr. Foundation STEM Center, and Spanish Speaking Community of Maryland under one roof.

For the YMCA, the new center is both an expansion of services and a commitment to place-based impact. “The YMCA of Frederick County is beyond excited to establish a physical presence on RT40, the Golden Mile,” said CEO and President Chris Colville. “While we embrace the opportunity to provide specialized YMCA programming for that area, we are equally thrilled to be sharing our new space with Children of Incarcerated Parents Partnership, Spanish Speaking Communities of MD and the Golden Mile Alliance.” By creating flexible, shared space for mission-driven organizations, the YMCA is positioning the Westside Program Center as a cornerstone for community engagement, service delivery, and neighborhood growth.

For partner organizations, the center provides critical infrastructure that strengthens their reach and effectiveness. Golden Mile Alliance Executive Director Robert Van Rens emphasized that this collaborative environment is already advancing opportunities for businesses and residents in the corridor, helping generate “growth and positive change.” Maria Herrera, Executive Director of Spanish Speaking Community of Maryland, echoed this sentiment, noting that the expanded home allows for deeper partnerships and greater support for vulnerable families. The addition of the Cal Ripken Sr. Foundation STEM Center, supported through partnership with Edgewater Federal Solutions, further expands that vision by creating a welcoming environment where families can learn together while exposing young people to hands-on STEM experiences. As Cherie Wigfield of Edgewater noted, “We are helping kids see themselves as problem-solvers and creators” while building tomorrow’s workforce through early access to critical skills and confidence. COIPP also celebrated the move as an important step in expanding services for children and families. Together, these organizations are creating a centralized ecosystem where economic development, family support, education, and cultural inclusion intersect.

The opening of the Westside Program Center signals a powerful new chapter for Frederick’s Golden Mile — one rooted in partnership, shared resources, and long-term economic vitality. It is an anchor institution that reflects the future of community development: collaborative, equitable, and responsive to neighborhood needs. As Frederick continues to reimagine the Golden Mile, this center stands as a tangible example of how strategic investment and cross-sector partnerships can strengthen communities from within.

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To learn more about neighborhood revitalization programs and resources, visit businessinfrederick.com.

Empowering Entrepreneurs: 2026 EmPOWER Mentorship Program

The EmPOWER Mentorship Program is a key initiative of the Frederick County Office of Economic Development (FCOED), with the City of Frederick Department of Economic Development serving as a Signature Sponsor. By investing both financial resources and staff support, the City helps ensure that aspiring and emerging entrepreneurs have access to the guidance, training, and connections they need to grow successful businesses.

EmPOWER Mentorship Program Graduates

The EmPOWER Mentorship Program recently concluded another successful six-week cohort, equipping aspiring and emerging entrepreneurs with practical skills to grow and strengthen their businesses. The program is a collaborative effort led by local partners committed to supporting Frederick’s small business community, providing participants with hands-on guidance, mentorship, and tools they can immediately apply to their ventures.

Throughout the six-week program, participants attended workshops led by the Maryland Small Business Development Center (SBDC), the program’s state partner, who delivered instruction on key business fundamentals such as planning, marketing strategies, financial management, and operations. These sessions were designed to give entrepreneurs the confidence and knowledge needed to navigate common business challenges while building a strong foundation for long-term success.

Mary Ford-Naill, Manager of Economic Development, City of Frederick Department of Economic Development and Janel Spencer, Business Development Specialist, Frederick County Office of Economic Development

• Friday, January 30, 2026 - Introduction to Entrepreneurship 

• Friday, February 6, 2026 -

  Planning for Your Business

• Friday, February 13, 2026 - 

  Managing Your Business 

• Friday, February 20, 2026 - Marketing Your Business 

• Friday, February 27, 2026 - 

  Growing Your Business

• Friday, March 6, 2026 - 

  Doing Business in Frederick County 

The program concluded with a graduation celebration that featured presentations and support from community partners including the Golden Mile Alliance, Frederick County Chamber of Commerce, and Frederick County Division of Permits and Planning along with insights from the Frederick County Division of Economic Opportunity and the City of Frederick Department of Economic Development on business resources and tools available to local entrepreneurs. Building on the momentum of this cohort, Centro Hispano de Frederick will offer a similar iteration of the program beginning in May, continuing the mission of expanding access to entrepreneurship education and support across the community.

SBDC Instructor teaching class.

EmPOWER Mentorship participant with her products.

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The City of Frederick supports programs like EmPOWER that strengthen the local entrepreneurial ecosystem. To learn more about the EmPOWER Program and other initiatives that help entrepreneurs grow and succeed, visit the Department of Economic Development’s website.

Expanding Access & Opportunity for Underrepresented Businesses

The Department of Economic Development (DED) supports underrepresented businesses through a range of programs, partnerships, and community events designed to increase access, visibility, and opportunity, advancing equitable growth.

(l-r), Andie Feldman, Economic Development Specialist, Bilingual, Jarad Bowens, Contracts Compliance Administrator, Kennedi Wilson, Business Development Specialist giving DED/Procurement presentation

Business Resource Expo

This month, DED participated as an exhibitor in the Business Resource Expo hosted by Centro Hispano de Frederick, connecting directly with entrepreneurs and small business owners seeking guidance and resources. Held at Trinity United Methodist Church, the event brought together key partners including the Golden Mile Alliance, Maryland Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Frederick County Office of Economic Development, the Comptroller of Maryland, the Latino Economic Development Center, the Small Business Development Center and others. DED provided information on available City resources and pathways to start and grow a business.

DED and Contracts Compliance Administration Staff exhibiting at Centro Hispano Business Resource Expo.

empowher conference

DED also participated as an exhibitor in the Maryland Women’s Business Center’s EmpowHER Conference, an initiative focused on uplifting women entrepreneurs through mentorship, skill-building, and community connection. We engaged with local and visiting entrepreneurs eager to start, grow, or expand their businesses in Frederick. The conference featured panels, keynote presentations, and the Founders Rising Business Pitch Competition, giving attendees the chance to learn from experienced industry leaders while building valuable connections. Through networking, DED was able to highlight City services and programs that support women-led businesses and attract them to the City of the Frederick.

nowruz celebration

(l-r) Mayor O’Connor, City of Frederick; Zohreh Rezazadeh, President, UNESCO BMW, Elizabeth Chung, Executive Director, Asian American Center of Frederick, Peter Brehm, City Council, City of Frederick

In celebration of cultural inclusion, the City proudly sponsored the Nowruz celebration, co-hosted by UNESCO BMW and Asian American Center of Frederick (AACF), recognizing the “New Day” celebration in Middle Eastern and Central Asian communities and issuing a formal proclamation. Events like Nowruz highlight the importance of cultural representation in economic development and reinforce Frederick’s commitment to being a welcoming place for diverse communities and businesses.

Women’s Business Roundtable

Beyond these key events, DED remains actively engaged in supporting diverse business communities through ongoing participation in initiatives such as the Veteran Services Center Open House in partnership with the Better Business Bureau serving veteran-owned businesses, the Women’s Business Network Social, the quarterly Latino Business Networking Breakfast, and the Women's Business Roundtable hosted by Angela Alsobrooks and April McClain Delaney. The Department also continues to engage with emerging entrepreneurs through the EmPOWER Mentorship Program, which recently graduated a new cohort of participants equipped with practical tools to strengthen their businesses. Read more about the graduation here. These touchpoints create meaningful opportunities for connection, resource sharing, and long-term business success.

What’s next?

The City’s Department of Economic Development continues to strengthen partnerships that expand access to business support services across Frederick’s diverse entrepreneurial community. Through ongoing collaboration, DED offers regular opportunities for entrepreneurs to connect with resources, receive one-on-one guidance, and learn about programs designed to support business growth. DED hosts office hours at Centro Hispano de Frederick on the third Thursday of each month from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, and at FITCI on the third Tuesday from 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM. Together, these efforts reflect a shared commitment to ensuring all entrepreneurs have access to the tools and support needed to succeed.

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To schedule a business meeting with DED staff, contact us.

Rebuilding Careers: City of Frederick Connects Talent to Opportunity

Building a strong, resilient workforce takes effort and teamwork. The City of Frederick Department of Economic Development (DED) partnered with regional leaders to support the Rebuilding Careers Job Fair & Hiring Event, reinforcing a shared commitment to workforce development and economic growth.

Held in collaboration with City of Frederick, Frederick County Workforce Services, Frederick County Chamber of Commerce, the Maryland Department of Labor, Professional Outplacement Assistance Center, and the Maryland Department of Social and Economic Mobility and Office of Small, Minority & Women Business Affairs, the event attracted 565 jobseekers and brought together 73 employers that offered a range of community resources to support job seekers at every stage of their career journey.

The City of Frederick served as a sponsor and played an active role in planning alongside these partners. During the event, the City hosted a booth and was joined by several Frederick-based businesses, all working to showcase local job opportunities and connect directly with talent. Attendees had access to career pathways in industries including healthcare, technology, education, hospitality, and public service, as well as support services such as résumé assistance, mock interviews, and workforce training resources. Building on the success of a similar event held last year, this continued effort reflects the City’s dedication to creating consistent, impactful opportunities that connect residents to employment and help local businesses succeed.

For job seekers who were unable to attend, state and local resources remain available:

• Frederick County Workforce Services - offers ongoing support including daily job search assistance, Job Club, and workshops such as interview preparation sessions.

  • Upcoming Events:

    • Thursday, April 2, 2026 - Job Search Support - These sessions are flexible to cover what you need, including resume assistance, interview preparation and/or practice, job search consultation, and more.

  • Time: 9:00 AM 11:00 AM

• Tuesday, April 7, 2026 - Future Proof Your Career: Transferable Skills (In-Person) - This session will help you identify your core strengths and transferable skills — and more importantly, how to communicate them to employers.

  • Time: 9:00 AM 10:30 AM

• Thursday, April 9, 2026 - Job Club (In-person) - Through weekly meetings with an experienced group facilitator, the Job Club at Frederick County Workforce Services provides a supportive, confidential environment for job seekers to share challenges and learn from the experiences of others.

  • Time: 1:00 PM 2:00 PM

• Wednesday, April 29, 2026 - Spring Job Fair - The Frederick County Workforce Services Spring 2026 Job Fair is coming to Warehouse Cinemas! Employers are actively seeking motivated, job-ready local talent to fill a variety of open positions. In partnership with Warehouse Cinemas, this event is designed to help you move confidently toward your next career milestone.

• Time: 9:00 AM 12:00 PM

• The Maryland Department of Labor - the Professional Outplacement Assistance Center provides specialized services for professionals, including a computer lab, individualized career guidance, and resource materials.

• The Maryland Department of Social and Economic Mobility, including the Office of Small, Minority & Women Business Affairs - connects individuals and businesses to webinars, workshops, and procurement opportunities across more than 70 state agencies.

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To stay informed about upcoming economic development events, visit our calendar or reach out to our Economic Development Team at 301.600.6360.

Downtown Frederick Retail Incubator Breaks Ground, Expanding Opportunity for Emerging Entrepreneurs

Downtown Frederick Partnership (DFP), in partnership with SOUL Street, is advancing a new chapter for inclusive entrepreneurship with the launch of the Downtown Frederick Retail Incubator, slated to open later this year. The project reached a major milestone last week with a formal groundbreaking at its future home, signaling continued momentum toward expanding access to brick-and-mortar retail opportunities in Downtown Frederick.

Located at 22 S. Market Street inside the historic Federated Charities building, the first-of-its-kind incubator will support emerging retail entrepreneurs by offering affordable retail space, shared operations, mentorship, and hands-on business training. The program will host up to three participants at a time for periods of up to 12 months, creating a lower-risk environment for entrepreneurs to test, refine, and grow their business concepts.

The incubator is made possible through grant funding from the Truist Foundation, whose investment supports career pathways to economic mobility and strengthens small businesses so all communities can thrive. DFP will manage the program in partnership with SOUL Street, a Frederick-based collective dedicated to fostering entrepreneurial success and expanding opportunities for historically underrepresented business owners.

The City of Frederick’s Department of Economic Development provided support for the incubator’s development and launch, aligning with the City’s broader goals of fostering inclusive economic growth, strengthening Downtown Frederick’s retail ecosystem, and supporting locally rooted entrepreneurship. The retail space will also be utilizing the City’s Grow Program to support the installation of an ADA‑compliant ramp, enhancing accessibility for all visitors.

An open application process for incubator participants is expected to launch in spring 2026. Selected businesses will receive not only physical retail space, but also targeted guidance designed to position them for long-term success, whether that means opening a permanent downtown storefront or scaling in other ways.

For additional details and future application updates, visit downtownfrederick.org/retailincubator.

Photo Credit: DED, Ali Chaturbhai

25th Annual Business Appreciation Week in Frederick

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.

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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.

Celebrating Food Business Innovation at FCC

Frederick Community College’s Hospitality, Culinary & Tourism Institute recently hosted its Food Business Entrepreneurship Pitch Competition, highlighting the creativity and drive of emerging food entrepreneurs in our region.

Competition Winners

Congratulations to the top three participants:

1st Place: Play Cafe – Holly Nelson

• A concept combining coffee, casual dining, and a play area for children.

2nd Place: The Cajun Cafe – Carmen Keys

• A restaurant focused on Cajun and Creole cuisine.

3rd Place: Doladaze - David Veal

• A healthy ice cream brand designed to offer great taste with better nutrition.

Each participant presented their business idea to a panel of industry professionals and local economic development leaders. To complement their pitches, entrepreneurs also offered samples or signature dishes, helping bring their concepts to life.

About the Program

The pitch event is part of the Food Business Entrepreneurship Program, which is offered at no cost to participants thanks to support from The City of Frederick’s Department of Economic Development and the Frederick County Office of Agriculture. The program provides practical training in areas such as financial planning, marketing, regulatory compliance, and facility design—helping participants prepare to launch or grow their food businesses.

Earlier this fall, the program received the Gold Award for Excellence in Economic Development – Institutional Partnerships from the International Economic Development Council. It’s a strong example of how local collaboration can support small business development and strengthen the regional food economy.

To date, 124 individuals have completed the program. We’re proud to support these entrepreneurs and look forward to seeing their businesses develop in the community.

Interested in starting a new food business in Frederick? Reach out to the City’s Department of Economic Development to learn more about the start-up process, 301.600.6360 or businessinfrederick@cityoffrederickmd.gov .

Women in the Trades: Developing a Pipeline of Talent for the Future

Local trade association, the Frederick County Building Industry Association, launched an initiative in 2021 to tap into a large segment of the potential construction trades workforce: Women. The Professional Women in Building (PWB) Council was established in 2021 to empower women in the building industry by providing opportunities for both professional and personal development. Initiatives like this are helping to develop a pipeline of talent for the future amongst the construction trades industry,

Danielle Adams, Executive Officer with the Frederick County Builders Industry Association, shared recently, “The National Association of Home Builders estimates 11% of women make up the U.S. building industry workforce with less than 5% performing a skilled trade. Additionally, of the highest in demand workforce needs, only 2.5% of auto techs are women (2024 U.S. Department of Commerce) 3.5% are laborers, 3.2% are plumbers, and 2.9% are electricians (2025 National Association of Women in Construction).

Initiatives in Frederick appear to be positively impacting the trajectory of women in the trades. Ms. Adams shared, “In Frederick County, we are seeing an increase, boasting more than 17% in the building industry. FCBIA’s Professional Women in Building Council and the Frederick County Women in Trades are advocating to mentor to women of all ages to pursue a career path in the skilled trades. Their awareness efforts through programing, speaking engagements, tabling events, and more, these organizations are supporting schools and employers to provide access and create a welcoming culture for women in the skilled trades.”

Adams along with members of Frederick County Women in Trades recently participated in the Construction Career Trades event at Harry Grove Stadium to showcase opportunities for future graduates that include on-the-job-training, apprenticeships and more. Learn about the Frederick event sponsored by the Maryland Center for Construction Education and Innovation here.

Frederick County Women in Trades

Follow the web and social media pages to learn more about future networking and educational events in Frederick focused on the construction trades:

• Professional Women in Building Council

• Frederick County Women In Trades

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Reach out to learn about other workforce initiatives in Frederick, including apprenticeships, internships and more! 301.600.6360 or businessinfrederick@cityoffrederickmd.gov .

Construction Trades: Next Gen Career Pathways

Maryland’s construction industry is grappling with a critical shortage of skilled tradespeople, a challenge that’s driving up project costs and threatening the pace of economic development across the state. With a staggering 3.1 job openings for every job seeker (Capital News Service)—more than double the national average—employers are struggling to find qualified talent for increasingly complex infrastructure demands. This labor gap stems from a confluence of factors: an aging workforce nearing retirement, limited interest from younger generations, and a widening skills mismatch that leaves many workers unequipped for modern construction roles. Organizations such as the Maryland Center for Construction Education & Innovation (MCCEI) are dedicated to bridging the gap between education and industry, advocating for career pathways within the construction trades industry.

Recently, MCCEI hosted the inaugural Frederick Construction Career Day events at Harry Grove Stadium and over 500 high school students from Frederick and Washington Counties were in attendance to learn about career pathways in the trades. Students were able to participate in hands-on activities using equipment, meet with local, regional and national construction industry companies and interact with the local workforce development team. The City of Frederick was an event sponsor, and members of the city’s DPW crew showcased career paths within its department. Several city construction trades businesses were on hand throughout the day to display opportunities for future careers at their respective companies. Community volunteers with and without construction experience contributed to the event’s success.

According to MCCEI Innovation Program Director, Jazmin Rodriguez, the Construction Career Day helps to:

• Increase awareness and pathway access: These events bring together industry partners, universities, apprenticeship and training programs to provide direct links from high school to in demand careers. MCCEI’s exit poll data shows a 50 % jump in students willing to “seriously consider” a construction career after just one day.

• Address workforce need: The construction industry across the US will need to attract an estimated 439,000 net new workers in 2025 to meet anticipated demand according to an ABC News Release. Based on AGC’s 2024 Workforce Survey Analysis, 94% of firms with craft worker openings report those positions are hard to fill; similarly, 92% of firms with openings for salaried workers report they are hard to find.

• Challenge preconceived notions about the industry: Through 1:1 engagement, these events help challenge outdated stereotypes of construction work, highlighting that the industry offers good wages, has strong advancement opportunities for men and women, and uses advanced technologies.

• Build collaboration: By involving schools, employers, unions, and state partners, MCCEI's events foster partnerships that help align education with industry needs, ensuring students are better prepared for real careers and employers have better access to talent.

Ms. Rodriguez shared, “MCCEI uses Construction Career Day as a proactive strategy–free for students and teachers, aiming to serve hundreds (500 1000) of students at each event–to connect youth to opportunities in the built environment, build the future workforce, and support Maryland’s economy and infrastructure through skilled talent.”

The City Department of Economic Development team was thrilled to support this important workforce development event! Stay tuned for details about the 2026 Career Day will be hosted on October 22, 2026 in Frederick. Follow the city’s event calendar at www.businessinfrederick.com for details on this event and others in the Frederick community.

Smart, Strategic, and Showing Up: Women in Economic Development 2025

Area Development’s Women in Economic Development Forum brings together women professionals in the economic development field to network, learn about the latest trends in site selection, business attraction and community growth, and exchange real-world strategies. Attending the Forum with our partner the Frederick County Office of Economic Development (FCOED) was nothing short of invigorating.

Kennedi Wilson, DED; Laurie Babb, Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation; Lara Fritts, FCOED

FCOED served as a sponsor of the opening-night Private Reception, helping to set the tone for an energizing and collaborative conference and giving the Frederick team access to site selectors from all over the country. This kind of connection is invaluable because it opens doors for one-on-one conversations about Frederick’s competitive advantages, helps strengthen relationships with national consultants who influence major location decisions, and ensures our community remains top-of-mind when companies are looking to expand or relocate. Building these networks directly supports long-term business attraction and retention efforts, fueling sustainable economic growth back home.

Naturally, those conversations carried into one of the conference’s key themes: site selection, defined by data-driven solutions, strategic partnerships, and project aftercare to ensure sustained success post-investment. Speakers emphasized the importance of aligning real estate opportunities with workforce analytics, infrastructure readiness, and sustainability goals.

Nina Albert, DC Deputy Mayor of Economic Development

Highlights included DC Deputy Mayor Nina Albert’s fireside chat “Inside the Capital: Innovative Ideas for the Future of Business, Labor, and Redevelopment,” plus energizing sessions like “The Economic Developers’ Bill of Rights.” From data-driven site selection to project aftercare and fun moments like “Economic Development Feud,” every discussion sparked fresh ideas to bring home to Frederick.

Throughout the conference, many best practices and success stories were shared, challenges were worked through, and spirits united. The sense of community, expertise, and purpose was palpable and DED was glad to take part in the program.

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To learn more about how the City’s Department of Economic Development supports businesses, innovators, and community partnerships, visit businessinfrederick.com.

IEDC Conference in Detroit: A Celebration of Collaboration, Innovation, and Impact

The synergy in Detroit was inspiring as economic developers from across the nation gathered for the 2025 International Economic Development Council (IEDC) Annual Conference. With over 4,500 members, IEDC is the leading nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing economic prosperity and quality of life in communities large and small. This year’s conference was a powerful reminder of the transformative work happening across the country—and Frederick is part of that narrative.

A Golden Moment for Frederick

One of the most exciting highlights from the conference was the City of Frederick’s Department of Economic Development receiving a prestigious Gold Award for its collaboration with Frederick Community College and the Frederick County Office of Agriculture. The award recognized the innovative Food Business Entrepreneurship Program, a free initiative that equips aspiring food entrepreneurs with hands-on training in culinary arts, business management, and marketing. Earning top recognition in the Secondary Institution Partnership category, this program combines academic training, industry expertise, and community resources, equipping aspiring food entrepreneurs with the tools to launch and grow successful food businesses—strengthening both Frederick’s food economy and its culture of entrepreneurship.

Hosted at FCC’s Hospitality, Culinary & Tourism Institute (HCTI), the program culminates in a “Shark Tank”-style pitch competition, where participants present their business ideas for funding and mentorship. Thanks to the training received at FCC and the support from City and County teams, several graduates have already launched successful ventures in Frederick—proof that strategic partnerships can spark real economic growth in our community.

2025 IEDC Gold Award Recipients

Economic Development Takeaways from Detroit

Throughout the conference, Detroit itself served as a living case study in urban renewal. Once teetering on the edge of bankruptcy, the city has undergone a remarkable transformation fueled by over $2 billion in public-private investment. From revitalized neighborhoods to a reimagined waterfront along the Detroit River, the city’s renaissance is a testament to the power of collaboration, vision, and long-term commitment.

Conference attendees explored themes that are shaping the future of economic development, including:

• Placemaking & Infrastructure Investment

• Entrepreneurship & Small Business Ecosystems

• Communications & Storytelling for Impact

• Talent & Workforce Transformation

• Innovation & Industry Evolution

• Capital Access for Communities

Additionally, attendees learned about a new tool for measuring impact that will be launched this month.  One of the biggest challenges in economic development is proving impact to stakeholders. To fill this gap, IEDC will be launching the State of the Field Survey Dashboard, a new member-exclusive tool to help organizations better understand and communicate results—an essential step in creating impactful programs, securing support and scaling success.

Maryland in the Mix

The Maryland Economic Development Association (MEDA) had a strong presence at the conference too, with Frederick represented by both City and County teams. It was energizing to connect with peers, share best practices, and bring home fresh ideas to fuel our local efforts.

MEDA Members at the IEDC Conference in Detroit.

As we look ahead to IEDC’s 100th anniversary celebration in New Orleans next year, the momentum is undeniable. Frederick’s commitment to inclusive growth, entrepreneurial support, and regional collaboration continues to set a high bar—and we’re just getting started.

Whether it’s celebrating award-winning partnerships or learning from Detroit’s bold reinvention, the IEDC Annual Conference reminded us that economic development is more than policy—it’s a “team sport” about people, purpose, and possibility. Frederick is proud to be part of a dynamic community, and we’re excited for what’s next for our businesses. 

To learn more about taking advantage of economic development resources in Frederick, reach out to schedule a meeting with our team today: Schedule Meeting.