Donna Goff retires after 20 years with DED

It was November 14, 2005, when Donna Goff first stepped into her new office at City Hall, now the location of the Finance Office, as an Economic Development Specialist.

Nervous yet determined, she was beginning an exciting new chapter while quietly battling cancer. On that very first day, then-Mayor Jennifer Dougherty appeared at the door with a baseball cap in hand, a gesture of kindness after learning Donna had lost her hair during chemo. Donna, overwhelmed but eager to learn from her boss Richard Griffin, could never have imagined that this modest beginning would grow into two decades of service, dedication, and heart within the City of Frederick’s Department of Economic Development. What began in a tiny office twenty years ago evolved into a career that helped shape countless small businesses and strengthened the fabric of Frederick’s entrepreneurial community.

As Donna reflects on her twenty-year legacy, her story is one not only of professional dedication but also of compassion, mentorship, and growth. In a recent conversation, Donna shared what has made her journey so meaningful and what she’s most looking forward to in retirement.

What has been the most rewarding part of serving in the Department for over two decades? 

For Donna, the true reward has always been the people. “Working with great colleagues and helping the small entrepreneurs get their footing and make their way through the process to opening their doors,” she says. Her passion for guiding one- and two-person businesses through complex processes, often during their most uncertain moments, has been a hallmark of her time with the department. Many of those entrepreneurs credit her warmth and steady communication for helping them take their first steps toward success.

Is there a project or initiative you’re especially proud to have been part of? 

“Best Places to Work was a great awards program that the City Economic Development held every year in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce, Frederick County Office of Economic Development and Frederick County Workforce Services. We were lucky to read so many wonderful and insightful nominations/submissions as a Frederick Best Place to Work. We were even able to pivot as a team during COVID and held the awards remotely and with safe distancing.”

How has your role or daily work evolved as the City and department have grown over the years? 

What began as a support role grew into a position of connection. As Office Manager, Donna became a bridge between City staff, business owners, and community partners. “The Office Manager position has grown into allowing me to forge personal and professional relationships with multiple individuals,” she notes. Her reputation for responsiveness and care made her a trusted contact not just within City Hall but across Frederick’s business landscape.

After two decades of service to the residents and businesses of Frederick as Office Manager for the City Department of Economic Development, Donna Goff is retiring and is hoping for bagpipes as she exits City Hall. Donna has been involved in nearly every effort of the department, but most notably has overseen the department’s budget, millions in grants including the reporting each quarter, and even delivered checks to impacted businesses during COVID. Her work has been indispensable on key efforts such as Frederick Day in Annapolis, Chamber Holiday Business Card Exchange at City Hall, and every filming requestion on public property inside the City of Frederick. She has been loyal, hard-working, and a friend to many here at City Hall and across the city. While she will be missed around these halls, we are delighted to think that she will be out playing with her dog friends and traveling with her husband Bob. Enjoy your well-deserved retirement, Donna. 

 - Richard Griffin, Director of Economic Development

What advice would you give to new staff joining the department today? 

Her advice is simple yet powerful: “Work hard and play hard! Also, learn to pivot and be flexible.” Donna believes in following up, even when the answer isn’t easy. “My most prized attribute I know for myself is always follow up with someone, even if you don’t have an answer or an answer that they will like. Don’t just let a client, caller, business person, or colleague fall into that dark hole,” she adds—a reminder of how small gestures of communication can build lasting trust.

Finally, what are you most looking forward to in retirement? 

Taking care of some unfortunate injuries (Welcome to 60!) and dog walking, house/pet sitting!

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As Donna closes this chapter, the Department of Economic Development extends its heartfelt thanks for her twenty years of service to the city. Her quick wit and deep understanding of the Frederick business community have left a lasting mark on both colleagues and partners alike. The DED team wishes her joy, good health, and many peaceful dog walks ahead as she begins this well-earned next chapter.

Decades of Donna at DED - Congratulations on your amazing journey!

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.

2025 Main Street Maryland Conference: “Great Places Win: Powering People, Places, and Possibility."

The 2025 Main Street Maryland Conference was held October 7–8 in downtown Easton, Maryland, a town celebrated for its historic Main Street roots. The conference was co-hosted by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) and the Maryland Economic Development Association (MEDA).

This year’s theme, “Great Places Win: Powering People, Places, and Possibility,” emphasized the importance of investing in vibrant, historic downtowns as engines of community and economic strength.

DED Participation

The two-day conference featured meaningful participation from the City of Frederick’s Department of Economic Development (DED). Throughout the event, DED team members joined state and local partners for presentations, tours, networking, and strategy sessions focused on strengthening Maryland’s Main Streets and downtown districts. The emcee for the two days was Kennedi Wilson, DED Business Development Specialist, who guided the program throughout the conference. In the opening session, Richard Griffin, Director of Economic Development, delivered welcoming remarks, setting the tone and framing the conference’s theme around placemaking, downtown revitalization, and collaboration. Morning programming also included sentiments from Megan Cook, Mayor of Easton, and a keynote speech from Main Street America President, Erin Barnes.

Secretary’s Panel

One of the highlight sessions was the “Secretary’s Panel,” which had senior officials from DHCD and other state agencies discussing policy, program updates, and how they’re working to support Main Street-type districts. The discussion reinforced that effective downtown revitalization depends on strong coordination and collaboration between state support and local implementation.

An Evening with Lt. Aruna Miller

The evening program with Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller offered an inspiring and conversational close to the day. Drawing on her own experience in local government, Lt. Governor Miller spoke about the power of place-based economic development and encouraged Main Street managers and downtown leaders to pursue bold partnerships rooted in equity and long-term sustainability.

Touring Easton

The 2025 Main Street Maryland Conference utilized several iconic venues throughout downtown Easton, all within easy walking distance, allowing attendees to experience firsthand the town's vibrant downtown atmosphere.

Waterfowl Building

Once the Maryland National Guard Armory, the Waterfowl Building is now home to the annual Waterfowl Festival and serves as a community hub for various events. During the conference, it hosted several sessions, providing attendees with a glimpse into Easton's rich history and community spirit.

Avalon Theatre

The Avalon Theatre, a historic Art Deco venue built in 1921, has been a cornerstone of Easton's cultural scene. It has hosted numerous performances and events over the years, making it a fitting location for conference sessions that focused on arts and culture in downtown revitalization.

Eastern Shore Land Conservancy (ESLC)

The ESLC, dedicated to preserving the Eastern Shore's natural resources, provided a backdrop for discussions on sustainable development and environmental considerations in Main Street revitalization efforts.

A featured highlight was the progressive Small-Plate Stroll through Easton’s downtown — a curated dining experience, where attendees moved between restaurants, sampling small-plates and exploring local flavor.

Key Takeaways

The 2025 Main Street Maryland Conference highlighted both the opportunities and challenges inherent in revitalizing downtown districts. Speakers emphasized the importance of leveraging existing assets — from historic architecture and walkable streets to thriving local businesses — rather than trying to reinvent communities from scratch. At the same time, participants acknowledged ongoing challenges, including funding constraints, parking and access issues in historic areas, and the need to balance preservation with modernization while ensuring downtowns remain resilient to economic shifts. Beyond the sessions themselves, the conference reinforced the value of networking and peer learning, allowing Main Street leaders to share strategies and insights from their own communities. Above all, the event reflected this year’s theme, “Great Places Win,” demonstrating that investing in vibrant, well-supported downtowns is not only a cultural priority but a strategic advantage for municipalities across Maryland.

Join us in making great places even greater by investing in the economic development of Frederick. Learn more about Main Street Maryland Conference.

 Photo Credit: Alyssa Maloof, MEDA, DED

Bakery de France expands in Frederick

Construction is underway for Bakery de France's expansion facility in Frederick and we could not be more excited! Located at 8400 Bakery Way just off Monocacy Boulevard in the City of Frederick, the current production facility includes 110,000 sf for making its artisan breads. The new 176,000-square-foot, $87 million expansion will dramatically increase production capacity and create 80 new full-time jobs, growing the company’s workforce in Frederick to more than 200 employees by 2027.

Bakery de France is a family-owned artisan bakery serving the U.S. market for more than 30 years! The state-of-the-art facility uses premium ingredients, its signature levain, and a traditional European long-fermentation process to bring centuries-old heritage of artisan bread to your table.

The company recently entered a joint venture with Belgian family owned La Lorraine Bakery Group, combining expertise to further expand the company's footprint in the North American market. The recent groundbreaking included guests from the leadership teams of both organizations as well as elected officials, economic development representatives from the city, county and state, as well as the project management team.

At the groundbreaking event, Bakery de France CEO Alexander Salameh was joined by his parents who founded the company many years ago along with La Lorraine Group CEO Guido Vanherpe.

Frederick is proud to be home to a diverse and thriving manufacturing community and we are thrilled to see Bakery de France continue to grow its production footprint here.

To learn more about Bakery de France, click here.

Bakery de France Expansion Facility Groundbreaking with representatives from the City of Frederick, Frederick County Government, Maryland Department of Commerce and State of Maryland legislature.

Interested in learning more about manufacturing in Frederick? Visit www.madeinfrederickmd.com or reach out to our economic development team at businessinfrederick@cityoffrederickmd.gov to learn about our diverse manufacturers in the city and county!

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.

Innovation Through Collaboration in Biotech: Strengthening Frederick’s Life Sciences Community

The City of Frederick Department of Economic Development (DED) and the Frederick County Office of Economic Development (FCOED) recently co-hosted Innovation Through Collaboration in Biotech, a free event sponsored by Federal Laboratory Consortium (FLC) that highlighted the region’s growing biotech and life sciences ecosystem. Held at New Spire Arts, the program featured a panel discussion, networking, and resources for local businesses and researchers looking to connect with key industry leaders.

Panelists included Patrick Calhoun, PhD (Nanocrine, Inc.), Amanda Corbel, MS, PMP (Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research), and Michael L. Salgaller, PhD (National Cancer Institute) moderated by Edward E. Diehl, PhD with Defense Health Agency. They shared insights on how innovators can partner with federal labs through technology transfer, licensing, and Cooperative Research and Development Agreements (CRADAs). TEDCO’s Ecosystem Director, Karen Zuccardi, also provided information about connecting with the organization’s resources.

Panelists emphasized that collaboration with federal labs is encouraged when projects align with mission priorities and are framed for mutual benefit. Attendees learned about opportunities to leverage resources from the Frederick National Laboratory, the National Cancer Institute, and the Federal Laboratory Consortium.

To stay up to date on future events in Frederick, visit the city’s Economic Development Calendar.

How LEDC Helps Entrepreneurs Navigate Financing

For many small business owners, the biggest challenges come down to planning and funding.

That’s why the City of Frederick’s Department of Economic Development (DED) is spotlighting one of our community partners this month: the Latino Economic Development Center (LEDC). Together, we’re working to ensure local entrepreneurs have access to the resources, guidance, and capital they need to thrive. The organization shared insight about its mission and services below:

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The Latino Economic Development Center (LEDC) began its journey in Washington, DC, in 1991 with a clear and powerful mission: to drive economic growth by equipping Latinos and other community members with the skills and resources needed to achieve financial prosperity. More than three decades later, LEDC has grown its reach and deepened its impact, while remaining true to its roots. Our nearly all-bilingual staff welcome and serve anyone who walks through our doors, helping individuals build financial stability, purchase homes, and grow thriving businesses that strengthen our communities.

Our core programs: personal financial counseling, housing counseling, and small business support, are the foundation of this work.

LEDC Food Venture Incubator Graduation 2024

LEDC launched its loan programs in 1997 and became a certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) by the U.S. Department of the Treasury in 2003. As a mission-driven nonprofit lender, we expand access to capital for small businesses, provide resources and guidance for aspiring homeowners, and offer programs that help individuals build and improve their credit.

Our small business loan programs serve entrepreneurs at every stage, from startups to established enterprises, with fixed-rate term loans ranging from $500 to $250,000 and repayment terms of 6 months to 10 years. To date, LEDC has delivered more than 2,800 loans, channeling over $50 million directly into the hands of entrepreneurs who are fueling local economies and creating jobs.

These investments have translated into success stories of every size. LEDC provided an early expansion loan to Sweetgreen, which has since grown into a nationally recognized brand, while also empowering countless local startups to take their very first steps. And beyond financing, LEDC offers business training and coaching, giving entrepreneurs the tools, guidance, and sense of community they need along what can often be a challenging and lonely journey.

Most recently, LEDC partnered with Frederick County’s EmPOWER Program to create a special loan program tailored for local participants. Through this initiative, we have supported businesses like Serenity Swimming, founded by Jenny Hoover, who opened doors to a new swimming facility that fills an important community need. We’ve also helped Chiefstack LLC, a Frederick-based professional services firm offering C-suite-level support to growing companies, along with many other local entrepreneurs bringing their visions to life.

For more information about our programs and impact, please visit the LEDC website.

Information provided by: Latino Economic Development Council (2025)

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To learn about more community partners that can help support business growth, check out the City of Frederick’s Economic Development Partner Directory.

Mountain City Elks Lodge #382 Celebrates Historic Restoration

For more than a century, Mountain City Elks Lodge #382 has stood as a cornerstone of Frederick’s African American community. Located at 173 W. All Saints Street, the lodge has been home to generations of fellowship, service, and history. This month, members and supporters gathered to celebrate the completion of a multi-year restoration effort that modernized the historic building. With support from the City of Frederick Department of Economic Development (DED), which applies on behalf of organizations to the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) for project funding, the Elks have achieved an unprecedented milestone in preserving their legacy for years to come.

The Restoration Project

Since 2021, the Elks Lodge has undergone a $1.16 million transformation to revitalize its historic structure. The project included complete renovations of the first and second floors, a fully updated kitchen, upgraded lighting and security systems, and the addition of new ADA-accessible entryways to improve community access. The work was supported in part by two City of Frederick GROW Grants — one in 2021 for $5,000 and another in 2024 for $3,000 — along with significant public investment through DHCD programs, safeguarding the lodge’s historic legacy while enhancing the building’s functionality to meet present and future needs.

The celebration was marked with a ribbon cutting ceremony attended by city, county, and state officials, community leaders, and lodge members. Among the honored guests was former State Senator Ron Young, who initiated government support for the project during his time in office, and Garland Thomas from DHCD, who helped oversee the state’s involvement. Their presence, alongside representatives from Senator Alsobrooks, Senator Van Hollen, and state delegates highlighted the collaboration across multiple levels of government that made the project possible.

While the Elks and their partners rejoiced in this moment of achievement, they emphasized that the work is not over. Additional fundraising is still underway to complete remaining improvements and ensure for generations to come.

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Learn more about other major development projects at www.businessinfrederick.com/153/Learn.

The City of Frederick Launches Nation’s First Returnship Program

Once again, Frederick is front and center - creating new workforce initiatives that will draw nationwide attention! Created by the Office of Opportunity and Transformation (OOT), the City-wide program helps experienced professionals reenter the workforce. Each placement will be hosted in a different department, giving participants a chance to contribute their skills while exploring local government.

The first placement is in the City’s Department of Economic Development (DED), supporting the City’s work in growing Frederick’s economy and helping local businesses thrive.

Each returnship is six months, part-time, and competitively paid, offering structure and support to step back into a career. Applicants need a minimum six-month gap on their resume, but the program welcomes individuals at all stages of their careers. Participants can refresh skills, build professional relationships, and use the role as a bridge to a permanent position elsewhere.

“We are thrilled to welcome Carol to our economic development team. This role offers an exciting opportunity for her to reconnect with the workforce, build meaningful community connections, and gain first-hand experience with the vibrant and diverse business community here in Frederick,” shared Mary Ford-Naill, Manager of Economic Development.

Carol Park, Project Coordinator, DED

Carol Park

Carol Park fills the first Returnship position as a Project Coordinator with the City’s Department of Economic Development.

Carol brings diverse professional experience, including roles as an office manager for a family-owned online retail business, a business assistant and Latin teacher at a K-12 private school, and a decade of administrative support at a patent law firm. She holds two master’s degrees in Biblical languages and Ancient Near Eastern studies and is a certified Level 1 Kingian Conflict Reconciliation Nonviolence trainer. A longtime volunteer with a passion for learning and creative thinking, Carol is also an avid reader and writer who enjoys fantasy, science fiction, and tabletop gaming.

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The need is clear. Maryland saw the steepest drop in workforce participation among mothers of elementary-aged children during the pandemic, more than any other demographic. Source In 2019, about 90 percent were in the labor force. By 2020, that fell to roughly 74 percent, a 16-point drop and the largest decline in the nation. Many of these women, along with others who have taken career breaks, are finding it challenging to reenter the workforce and regain momentum in their careers.

“Frederick is ready to lead by example, proving that career breaks do not have to be career endings,” stated Ericka Rohrbaugh, Manager of the Office of Opportunity and Transformation. “With OOT standing up the program and DED hosting the first participant, the city is building pathways for residents, strengthening City departmental relationships, and creating opportunities that benefit the whole community.”

In 2023, the City of Frederick was one of 16 cities nationwide selected to participate in The Good Jobs, Great Cities Academy - a year-long program led by the National League of Cities and the U.S. Department of Labor to help cities create comprehensive plans to help people find good jobs and build successful careers.

The program’s goal was to help cities like Frederick develop plans to improve job opportunities for residents, focusing on high-quality jobs and sustainable employment. The two resident groups we focused on were young people (ages 14-24) and disconnected adults. The returnship position is just one of several initiatives underway at the city to address the workforce needs of the community.

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To learn more about workforce initiatives within the City of Frederick, reach out today and we will connect you! Call 301.600.6360 today!

Making Waves: The Road to Entrepreneurship with Serenity Swimming

Launching a business is a lot like learning to swim—you start by dipping your toes in the water, then you practice, tread through challenges, and finally make a splash when you reach your goals. For Serenity Swimming, the dream of providing private swim lessons in Frederick has been years in the making. This summer, the company dove into a new chapter with the opening of its state-of-the-art swim facility—a place where anyone can safely float, splash, and grow in confidence. We recently had a chance to catch up with owner Jenni Hoover to gather insight about Serenity Swimming’s path to entrepreneurship:

From Idea to First Splash: A Timeline of Milestones

Every stroke in the journey mattered. Here’s how Serenity Swimming navigated the waters of entrepreneurship:

• Fall 2022 – First idea of an indoor swim school in Frederick, focused on private lessons.

• Spring 2023 – Developed a business plan, conducted research, and entered She Pitch.

• August 2023 – Presented the idea at She Pitch and won the Idea Stage. A huge splash in the community!

• Fall 2023 – The journey felt like treading water—loan approvals came and went, creating waves of uncertainty. Support from the City of Frederick’s Department of Economic Development kept the vision afloat.

• December 2023 – Secured an SBA loan through M&T Bank and PW, just in time for the holiday season.

• February 2024 – Lease signed — represented by commercial broker, VCRE

• March 2024 – Architect drawings completed; SBA loan signed.

• April 2024 – Lease executed, though unexpected construction costs rippled through the budget.

• November 2024 – Awarded the Frederick ACCESS Grant; construction permit approved.

• January–March 2025 – Construction began, including moving sewer lines and digging the pool.

• June 6, 2025 – Certificate of Occupancy received at 6:35 a.m.; first swim lesson at 10 a.m.—the first big splash in their new home.

Resources That Kept the Vision Afloat

Navigating the financial currents of entrepreneurship takes creativity. Serenity Swimming tapped into multiple streams of support:

• Frederick ACCESS Granted (a one time grant program utilizing ARPA funding)

• The City of Frederick’s GROW Grant

• Maryland BOOST Grant

• SBA 7(a) Loan from M&T Bank

• Latino Economic Development Council Loan

• EmPOWER Loan (Frederick County Office of Economic Development)

• Kickstarter campaign

Together, these resources created a current that carried the dream forward.

Overcoming the Undertow

Like swimming across open water, Serenity faced strong currents along the way.

1. Financial waves – Detailed planning, grant applications, and trusted banking partners kept the dream afloat.

2. Finding the right pool (location) – A space that worked for both construction and families was essential, and a skilled local commercial Realtor from VCRE helped chart the course.

3. Uncertain opening dates – Like waiting to surface for air, the unknown timeline made staffing and scheduling difficult. Flexibility and determination kept things moving forward.

Lessons for First-Time Entrepreneurs

For those just diving in, Serenity Swimming offers this advice:

• Expect to make waves of decisions—everything from faucets to flooring.

• Rely on your lifeguards (family, friends, mentors)—you can’t swim this race alone.

• Trust your team to keep things afloat—you hired them for a reason.

• Remember: the effort is worth it. Building your own facility means the freedom to design programs that flow with your values.

The Next Lap for Serenity Swimming

Now that Serenity Swimming has officially made a splash, new programs are already rippling outward. Families can enjoy:

• Private swim lessons

• Baby and Me classes (expanding due to high demand)

• Pre-swim team training

• Themed summer camps (like Water Sports Week)

• Coming soon: Parent’s Night Out, water exercise classes, homeschool swim programming, and school-out day programs

Learn more or sign up at SerenitySwimming.com.

💦 Serenity Swimming’s story is proof that with resilience, community support, and the courage to tread water through tough times, entrepreneurs can make big waves. For assistance with kickstarting your business idea, reach out to our economic development team at the City of Frederick today! 301.600.6360 / businessinfrederick@cityoffrederickmd.gov.

Frederick County Career Coaches Explore Local Economic Development

The Downtown Frederick Partnership recently hosted a professional development day for Frederick County Public Schools (FCPS) Career Coaching staff, offering a comprehensive overview of economic development in Frederick County through a panel of local partners.

Participants engaged in sessions covering historic preservation, Main Street communities, nonprofits, and the arts — key sectors that contribute to Frederick’s economic vitality. The program concluded with a panel discussion on economic development featuring Mary Ford-Naill, Manager of the Department of Economic Development for the City of Frederick, Lara Fritts, Director of the Frederick County Office of Economic Development, joined by representatives from Visit Frederick, Downtown Frederick Partnership, and the Frederick County Chamber of Commerce.

The event provided career coaches with a deeper understanding of the wide range of industries and employment opportunities available in Frederick County. This knowledge will support their efforts to guide middle and high school students as they explore potential career pathways and equip them with fresh insights that will help set them up for success.

To learn more about the FCPS Career Coaches Program, visit Career Coach Program - Frederick County Public Schools. For more workforce resources, go to Workforce Resources | Frederick Business, MD.