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17 Rockville companies rank on Inc.’s annual 5000 list

Inc. 5000 2024: Meet the Rockville Companies Building the Future

Companies on the 2024 Inc. 5000 are ranked according to percentage revenue growth from 2020 through 2023. To qualify, companies must have been founded and generating revenue by March 31, 2020. They must be U.S.-based, privately held, for-profit, and independent—not subsidiaries or divisions of other companies–as of December 31, 2023. (Since the period under review, some on the list may have gone public or been acquired.) The minimum revenue required for 2020 is $100,000; the minimum for 2023 is $2 million. Growth rates used to determine rankings were calculated to four decimal places. All honorees must pass Inc. editorial review.

Listed in order of their ranking, REDI congratulates the following Rockville companies, as well as their leaders and employees, on their continued growth:

#12: Autosled – Rockville

#34: Chaberton Energy – Rockville

#293: PWG Network Solutions – Rockville

#779: ABCD & Company – Rockville

#788: Axiom Consultants – Rockville

#969: iVenture Accounting Group – Rockville

#1138: madVR Labs – Rockville

#1974: Behavioral Framework – Rockville

#2089: Presidential Exteriors – Rockville

#2112: Silver Lining Design Group – Rockville

#2248: Z Family Law – Rockville

#3124 Pioneer Power Group – Rockville

#3192: DogiZone – Rockville

#3217: Columbia Technologies – Rockville

#3470: History Associates Incorporated – Rockville

#4479: Sky Data Vault – Rockville

#4548: fusionSpan – Rockville

For the full list, visit: https://www.inc.com/inc500

Business Spotlight: Nature by Trejok

"Where vintage charm meets contemporary elegance in a celebration of history, creativity, and sustainability."

What does Nature by Trejok offer?

We provide an experience where art, creativity, and meticulous curation come together. At our boutique, you’ll find uniquely designed, ready-to-wear collections of clothing, shoes, and accessories, each piece infused with contemporary flair and a hint of vintage charm. In addition, we curate one-of-a-kind vintage treasures, including elegant Chinas, collectible items, and home goods that inspire and captivate. Every item we offer tells a story and adds a touch of inspiration to your everyday life.

What motivated the start of the business?

As a physician trained abroad, I embarked on this entrepreneurial journey to fund my dream of obtaining a U.S. medical license. But my inspiration goes deeper—it stems from my grandmother, Josefa Trejo, whose legacy of elegance and sophistication profoundly shaped my vision. She spent many years in Europe, amassing collections from Limoges, Richard Ginori, and Royal Doulton, which became symbols of her refined taste. My store is a tribute to her influence, blending my childhood memories with her timeless style. Each of my designs carries the spirit of her grace, interwoven with my modern touch, creating a unique fusion of past and present.

What makes Nature by Trejok unique?

What sets us apart is the personal connection we build with our clients. Each piece in our collection of clothing, shoes, and accessories is one-of-a-kind, often customized to match the client’s lifestyle and personal preferences. In our on-site creative laboratory, customers can witness the craftsmanship firsthand, selecting their preferred materials, colors, and textures. We are a dynamic blend of creativity, originality, and artistic flair. Our clients consistently express awe, saying, “I’ve never seen anything like this,” upon entering our boutique. Whether they’re first-time visitors or loyal returning customers, they’re greeted by ever-evolving displays and innovative products, all reflecting their unique desires.

Why did you choose to run your business in Rockville?

Our journey began in Rockville in 2019 through the Maryland Women’s Business Center’s retail incubator program, MWBC Shop Local. By the end of the program, we had forged a deep connection with the local community, which inspired us to settle in Rockville Town Square. The warm embrace of Rockville’s people and the strong sense of belonging we feel here have made this the perfect home for our business. We love Rockville, and Rockville loves us back.

Where do you see your business in 5 years from now?

In five years, I envision our business expanding to two or three additional locations across the DMV area, and possibly beyond, into other states. We’re laying the groundwork for growth, with our eyes set on bringing our unique blend of creativity and craftsmanship to even more communities.

In shows we’ve participated in across other states, such as New York, we’ve left a lasting impression that has led to being invited to the prestigious New York Fashion Week on three occasions, showcasing our collection of upcycled shoes, accessories, and clothing. We’ve also been invited to participate in Paris and Milan, and we foresee ourselves gracing the runways of these fashion capitals sooner than expected, as soon as financial resources allow. We are working diligently to make this vision a reality in the near future, as we continue our journey to conquer the world of fashion.

About Nature by Trejok

Boutique featuring unique upscale shoes, upcycled handcrafted fashion, personalized gifts, home items, and exquisite accessories.

Visit Nature by Trejok at 130 Gibbs St, Unit B, Rockville, MD 20850

Learn more about Nature by Trejok at www.naturebytrejok.com

Follow Nature by Trejok on Facebook, and Instagram

MWBC Shop Local is a retail incubator program of the Maryland Women’s Business Center (MWBC). Learn more at www.mwbcshoplocal.com

Business Spotlight: AFC Urgent Care Rockville

"The right care, right now."

What services does AFC Urgent Care offer?

Urgent Care, Primary Care, Occupational Health (including pre-employment physicals, vaccinations and labs), Pre-Operation visits, Sexual health visits, On-site labs, On-site Digital X-Ray, USCIS Immigration Physicals, DOT Physicals, DOT Urine Drug Screens, Instant Urine Drug Screens, Open 8 am – 8 pm, daily, Walk-in appointments welcome.

What motivated the start of the business?

At AFC Rockville, medicine is our practice, but people are our passion. We established this clinic with a vision to provide medical care that truly reflects our values. Our goal is to deliver high-quality, evidence-based healthcare with a compassionate touch, always emphasizing the human side of medicine.

We believe that exceptional medical care goes beyond treatments and prescriptions—it involves listening, understanding, and connecting with our patients on a personal level. Our clinic is dedicated to creating a warm, welcoming environment where every individual feels valued and cared for.

What makes AFC Urgent Care unique?

We offer not just urgent care, but also serve as a full-service primary healthcare center. From routine check-ups to specialized treatments, our dedicated team is here to support your health journey every step of the way.

We’re excited to announce that we’ll soon be launching new community wellness initiatives aimed at promoting healthier lifestyles and fostering a stronger, healthier community. We look forward to continuing to serve you and enhance your well-being.

Why did you choose to run your business in Rockville?

The vibrant and diverse community in Rockville has truly embraced us, and our location in King Farm Plaza has provided the perfect setting for us to become the community clinic we aspire to be. We’ve been warmly welcomed and supported by our neighbors, making it a joy to serve this incredible community.

We are especially grateful for the Rockville Chamber of Commerce, whose invaluable support and guidance have been instrumental in our journey. Their dedication to fostering local businesses has helped us thrive and connect with the community in meaningful ways.

Where do you see your business in 5 years from now?

Hopefully with brothers and sisters! Expanding and growing to continue our mission and to serve another community that might benefit from our services.

About AFC Urgent Care Rockville

AFC Urgent Care Rockville is a community clinic located in the King Farm Village Shopping Center providing economical, convenient healthcare.

Visit AFC Urgent Care Rockville at 802 Pleasant Drive, Rockville, MD 20850

Learn more about AFC Urgent Care Rockville at www.afcurgentcare.com/rockville

Follow AFC Urgent Care Rockville on Facebook, Linkedin, and Instagram

MWBC Senior Business Consultant, Karen Kalantzis, presented with Touching Lives Award 2024

These nominees have demonstrated outstanding involvement and commitment to touching the lives of others.

The Maryland Women’s Business Center (MWBC)‘s Senior Business Consultant, Karen Kalantzis, has been recognized for her compassion and dedication to serving the small business community in Frederick County.

The Touching Lives Award recognizes non-management staff that provide front line services to a Frederick County nonprofit’s clientele, or that provide administrative support that sustains the operations of the organization, and does not manage any staff members (employees). These nominees have demonstrated outstanding involvement and commitment to touching the lives of others.

Karen has served as the Senior Business Consultant for the Frederick office for three years, exemplifying MWBC’s mission of empowering small businesses and women entrepreneurs to launch and grow through her multifaceted involvement in community initiatives and programs. As a graduate of Leadership Frederick, Karen utilized this platform to develop the Creative Capital Microgrant (CCM) program, leveraging resources and partnerships to bring this initiative to fruition which provides financial microgrants to qualified businesses in creative industries to accelerate short-term returns on investment and foster ongoing growth.

Karen describes being part of the She Pitch competition as among her favorite accomplishments, helping to get the competition off the ground, and being a part of witnessing the women’s hard work and journey. Karen demonstrates her dedication to supporting female entrepreneurs at various stages of business development, contributing not only to programmatic operations, but also valuable technical assistance to participants, embodying traits of compassion, dedication, and collaboration. Fostering community cohesion through networking events, creating spaces for entrepreneurs to connect, collaborate, and thrive, underscores her commitment to building a supportive ecosystem where peers can learn from and inspire one another.

“Karen’s unwavering commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs reflects her dedication to advancing MWBC’s mission. With compassion, dedication, and innovative leadership, she not only transforms the lives of her clients but also inspires her peers and uplifts the entire community. Karen’s impact extends far beyond her professional role, touching hearts and making a tangible difference in the lives of those she serves. She is a true beacon of hope and inspiration, deserving of this esteemed recognition.” -Danette Nguyen, Executive Director

Read full article: https://frederickchamberinsights.com/2024/04/08/touching-lives-awards-2024/

About Maryland Women’s Business Center

Maryland Women’s Business Center (MWBC) works with women entrepreneurs and small businesses across Maryland’s Capital Region to help them to start, sustain, and grow their businesses. Through workshops, individual counseling, facilitated peer group support, special resources, and access to capital, MWBC annually helps more than 1,500 women gain the skills, connections, and confidence necessary to navigate entrepreneurship. Learn more at https://marylandwbc.org/

Business Spotlight: Potahto

Creative & Stylish Plant Products, Home Decor & Gifts

What products does Potahto offer?

We offer air plants, planters, cork bark wall hangings, and moss decor.

What motivated you to start your business?

Years spent navigating the corporate world had left me feeling unfulfilled, craving a deeper sense of purpose. I embarked on a journey to create something meaningful, and turned to my love for home aesthetics and plants. The path into entrepreneurship started on Etsy, a creative platform that enables testing and fine-tuning of our products. Nothing is more gratifying than to offer what brings joy while enriching the lives of our customers.

What makes Potahto unique?

Our distinctive designs, coming out with original decor ideas catering to customers seeking low-maintenance and stylish greenery options help set us apart in the natural decor market. We also have the ability to take custom requests that help address specific customer needs.

How has your experience been owning a business located in Rockville?

It has been incredible and I can’t ask for a better location. Rockville is a major economic hub, it’s business-friendly with access to resources like the MWBC Shop Local business incubator program. Being in a vibrant urban town center with residents living within walking distance, it has made our store their easy go-to when it comes to shopping for gifts or for themselves. Rockville is also a destination for many (for personal and work) from outside the city and state, hence exposing my business to a wider audience which is a real boon.

Where do you see your business in 5 years from now?

We see our products in more plant stores and garden centers throughout the country, coast to coast. And filling our team with creative people to help further enhance our brand in spreading joy and improving the well-being of our customers through our plant and natural decor products. And building upon our workshop offerings to empower more people to get in touch with their creativity and offering fun, meaningful experiences.

About Potahto

Potahto has been dedicated to bringing the beauty of nature and plant-inspired decor products to our customers. Our mission is to offer home and plant decor items that are accessible and inclusive for everyone, and to spread joy while doing it. We craft unique natural decor items for homes and offices, bringing life to tabletops and transforming ordinary walls into stunning vertical garden displays.

Learn more about Potahto at www.potahto.com

Follow Potahto on Facebook and Instagram

Visit Potahto at MWBC Shop Local – Rockville Town Center through June 2024 at 36D Maryland Ave, Rockville, MD 20850

MWBC Shop Local is a retail incubator program of the Maryland Women’s Business Center (MWBC).

Two Rockville Businesses Listed in the New York Times 25 Best Restaurants in Washington, D.C.

"The food scene in and around the nation’s capital is vibrant these days..."

View full list of The 25 Best Restaurants in Washington, D.C., Right Now by the New York Times

In an article published on April 29, 2024, the New York Times listed the top 25 restaurants in the Washingon, D.C. area. 2 of the 25 restaurants are located in Rockville, which is no surprise as Rockville is home to many authentic and culturally diverse cuisines. See the featured Rockville restaurants below:

Z&Z Manoushe Bakery

The crust of Z&Z’s classic manoushe, covered in a forest green slick of olive oil and za’atar, is both tantalizingly chewy and thoroughly crisp, from the edge to the tip of each triangle-cut slice. If the quality and complexity brings to mind artisan pizza, you’re not alone. While the owners, Danny and Johnny Dubbaneh, are quick to point out Levantine flatbreads predate pizza, the brothers’ family-run business does operate a little like a pizzeria, with the many variations on its signature item — don’t miss the manoushe topped with tomatoes, cucumbers and toum — ordered to-go in cardboard takeout boxes. The cozy, four-table bakery is a step up from Z&Z’s farmers’ market beginnings, but it still belies the regional demand the Dubbanehs have helped to create for manoushe, with Z&Z products now available in grocery stores across the Mid Atlantic.

1111 Nelson St
Rockville, MD 20850

Pupuseria Mamá Emilia

Salvadoran food is tightly knit into the fabric of the local culture. Elsy Claros — whose mother, Emilia Cruz Lopez, ran a pupuseria in El Salvador — played a role in spreading the cuisine across the metro area, with the pupuserias she opened with her sisters. Mamá Emilia ups the ante. Ms. Claros opened the restaurant with the help of her daughter, Ericka, in 2022. There are traditional pupusas, oozing cheese, frijoles and chicharrón. But there are also pupusas with fillings that include shrimp, mint and kale. There are nearly 30 different styles, all served hot and freshly blistered, starting at breakfast, when you’d be well served ordering the signature item with eggs, in a red sauce that rivals the best enchilada gravy.

785 Rockville Pike
Rockville, MD 20852

Read the full New York Times article: https://www.nytimes.com/article/dc-best-restaurants.html

Business Spotlight: Gold City Jewelers

Luxury 22 Karat Gold Jewelry. Generations of Expertise. Exceptional Service.

What services does Gold City Jewelers offer?

We are a full-service jewelry store serving the DMV for the last 29 years. We offer everything from solitaire diamonds to diamond jewelry to custom jewelry to unique 22kt gold handcrafted pieces. You’ll find everyday chains, gold and silver bullion, and children’s jewelry, as well. We also offer same-day repairs and gold buying.

What motivated you to start Gold City Jewelers?

I married into a family of jewelers from India—it has been their family business for many generations. My husband’s main business was jewelry manufacturing and diamond wholesale, so I got a first-hand look at the inner working of the jewelry industry. Once my children were old enough, I decided to start my own business selling 22kt jewelry. It started with weekend trunk shows in hotels and with the support and guidance from my husband, and 29 years later, here we are.

What makes Gold City Jewelers unique?

Our diversity, quality, and knowledge of jewelry makes us unique. We have large inventory of solitaire diamonds and engagement rings, everyday diamond pieces, and handcrafted 22kt pieces that are one-of-a-kind. Gold City really has a complete inventory of jewelry that can fit any person for any day and any occasion.

Why did you choose to run your business in Rockville?

Rockville is the largest business hub in Montgomery County. We also chose Rockville because of it’s diversity.

Where do you see your business in 5 years from now?

One of our best suits is being adaptable, and because of this, we’ll ride smoothly into all the future trends of jewelry with ease–from natural to sustainable, to styles that range from over-the-top to minimal. Jewelry is here to stay; styles will change or simply rotate, and we’re here to provide whatever the customer has in mind. My son Vikram is the face of the next generation here at Gold City, and for our business to continue to adapt, grow, and go into the next phase, his presence will continue to make an impact. He has worked at Tiffany & Co. and the Rolex Boutique-Tourneau during his time in NYC and we’re excited to see where his expertise will take us.

About Gold City Jewelers

Gold City Jewelers is a woman-owned, family-run business established in 1995. Quality comes first here, designed to be treasured through generations. Find it all, from solitaire pieces, including engagement rings and tennis necklaces, to everyday diamonds that convey a cool nonchalance.

Learn more about Gold City Jewelers at www.goldcityjeweler.com

Follow Gold City Jewelers on Facebook and Instagram

Visit Gold City Jewelers at 451 Hungerford Dr, #107, Rockville, MD 20850

Business Spotlight: MaximBio

"Innovation for a Healthier World"

What services does MaximBio offer?

Maxim Biomedical is a leading developer and manufacturer of lateral flow and diagnostic technologies. We partner with leading healthcare companies and government agencies to help bring a range of diagnostic devices to market through our full range of turnkey services from development and prototyping all the way through scale up and high-volume manufacturing.

What motivated you to start MaximBio?

Maxim Biomedical was founded in 2005 in an effort to enhance global health through the development and manufacture of trusted diagnostic solutions. Maxim launched the business through multiple FDA approved HIV screening and confirmatory diagnostic tests, but quickly expanded our capabilities into a wide range of other applications including infectious diseases, women’s health, drugs of abuse, food safety, and biodefense.

What makes Maxim Bio unique?

Maxim uniquely provides the diagnostic industry full turnkey development and manufacturing solutions. We are one of very few contract development and manufacturing businesses that can serve as a one-stop outsourced partner for lateral flow and diagnostic devices. We are capable of supporting our clients at any stage in their product life cycle to assist in achieving go-to-market success.

Why did you choose to run your business in Rockville?

Rockville was an ideal location as it serves as one of the nation’s hubs for biotechnology with close proximity to many innovative companies and government agencies.

Where do you see your business in 5 years from now?

Maxim is looking to continue its growth and build upon our history to continue serving as an industry leader in diagnostic development and manufacturing. We are rapidly expanding our client base allowing us to meaningfully contribute to an even wider range of testing applications that will ultimately further increase global access to innovative diagnostic solutions and technologies.

About MaximBio

MaximBio is a Maryland-based leader in lateral flow and diagnostic device manufacturing, dedicated to providing innovative solutions for the detection and diagnosis of various health conditions. With a commitment to advancing public health, MaximBio specializes in the production of high-quality diagnostic tools that play a crucial role in disease detection and management.

Learn more about MaximBio at www.maximbio.com.

Follow MaximBio on LinkedIn

Exploring Rockville’s Eclectic Charm – a Highlight in Washingtonian’s February 2024 Issue

"All the new places to eat, drink, and play in the growing Maryland suburb."

Rockville, Maryland, the heart of Montgomery County, is a vibrant tapestry of cultures, flavors, and experiences. Washingtonian magazine showcased Rockville’s diverse culinary scene, burgeoning retail spaces and exciting developments in their February 2024 issue.

Some of the Washingtonian Neighborhood Guide highlights included:

The article also provided insight into some of Rockville’s current and upcoming projects including the mixed-used development, Twinbrook Quarter, and Shady Grove Innovation District – a development with state-of-the-art laboratories, luxury apartments and public spaces.

Read the full Washingtonian article at https://www.washingtonian.com/2024/02/29/neighborhood-guide-things-to-do-in-rockville/

Business Spotlight: Snowden Funeral Home

“A Legacy of Celebrating Life”

Could you share the origin and history of Snowden Funeral Home?

Snowden Funeral Home was established over one hundred years ago and has been operated by the Snowden family through four generations. The founder of the firm, George Russell Snowden, handled his first funeral service in 1909 in Howard County, Maryland. After graduating from the Hennard School of Embalming in New York City, he advertised that he was open for business. His hearse was a spectacle to see riding through the county, being drawn by four beautiful white horses. In 1926, Snowden Funeral Home established its Rockville location at North Washington Street.

Because of ill health, Mr. Snowden turned the business over to his son, Robert L. Snowden, in 1936. Having worked with his father, from meager beginnings, Robert L. had to borrow money and equipment to maintain a properly equipped funeral home. In 1947, Robert L.’s wife, Alma P. Snowden, became a licensed Maryland funeral director and worked side by side with her husband Robert. Her active participation in funeral service ended when she retired in 1971.

The funeral home on North Washington Street has since undergone changes to its original structure. In 1947, the original wood structure was moved from its foundation, so that business was not interrupted, while a new structure was built. In 1947 a new brick building for the funeral home was built and an adjoining property was added to expand the business.

In 1974, Robert L. Snowden retired and turned the funeral business over to his son, George R. Snowden, Sr., and daughter, Irene Snowden Curry. After the passing of their father in 1979, George and Irene made it their mission to exemplify the same passion and concern for bereaved families which they learned from their parents. Today the Snowden family’s legacy of celebrating life is managed and operated by the leadership of George R. Snowden, Jr.

How has your business adapted its services and practices over time while maintaining a connection to historical roots?

Although a lot of things have changed since the establishment of Snowden Funeral Home, such as using horse drawn hearse, having wakes at the residence of decease, and meticulously hand carving outer burial containers. What has not changed is our resolve to serve every family that God entrusts us to care for at life’s only inevitable stage.

Today the Snowden family’s legacy of celebrating life is managed and operated by the leadership of George R. Snowden, Jr. In 2009 George R. Jr. along with his wife Dia H. Snowden took over the helm as the fourth generation, overseeing and managing the day-to-day operations of the funeral home.

What makes Snowden Funeral Home unique?

Aside from being the only African American funeral home in Montgomery County, Snowden Funeral Home embodies its motto ‘Personal caring service.’

It is the hope of the Snowden Family that the Funeral Home continues to operate as a family business in the generations to come, and to serve the people of the area with dignity and pride. The Snowden family exemplifies a family with deep roots of strength and unity.

Are there any community events or initiatives that Snowden Funeral Home has been/will be involved in?

Through the years, the Snowden Family has been generous in their participation and collaboration with churches, community events as well as many charitable organizations. Snowden Funeral Home supports sports teams in the City of Rockville, donates to scholarship funds of many organizations in the County, contributes to many community promoted events and sponsors a back-to-school, Believe to Succeed, backpack campaign to help our youth start the school year off needed school supplies.

What advice would give to new businesses aiming to become long-standing within the community?

First and foremost, having a heart of service is paramount to maintaining good relationships with others. Caring about their needs and making an effort to ensure that you leave an impression of making someone feel important and cared for.

About Snowden Funneral Home

Founded by George Russell Snowden, Snowden Funeral Home P.A. has been family-owned and operated since the early 1900’s. Throughout four generations, Snowden Funeral Home continues to provide premier professional services to families at its Rockville location since 1926. Learn more at https://www.snowdencares.com/

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Inc. 5000 2024: Meet the Rockville Companies Building the Future

"Where vintage charm meets contemporary elegance in a celebration of history, creativity, and sustainability."

What does Nature by Trejok offer?

What motivated the start of the business?

What makes Nature by Trejok unique?

Why did you choose to run your business in Rockville?

Where do you see your business in 5 years from now?

About Nature by Trejok

"The right care, right now."

What services does AFC Urgent Care offer?

What motivated the start of the business?

What makes AFC Urgent Care unique?

Why did you choose to run your business in Rockville?

Where do you see your business in 5 years from now?

About AFC Urgent Care Rockville

These nominees have demonstrated outstanding involvement and commitment to touching the lives of others.

Creative & Stylish Plant Products, Home Decor & Gifts

What products does Potahto offer?

What motivated you to start your business?

What makes Potahto unique?

How has your experience been owning a business located in Rockville?

Where do you see your business in 5 years from now?

About Potahto

"The food scene in and around the nation’s capital is vibrant these days..."

Luxury 22 Karat Gold Jewelry. Generations of Expertise. Exceptional Service.

What services does Gold City Jewelers offer?

What motivated you to start Gold City Jewelers?

What makes Gold City Jewelers unique?

Why did you choose to run your business in Rockville?

Where do you see your business in 5 years from now?

About Gold City Jewelers

"Innovation for a Healthier World"

What services does MaximBio offer?

What motivated you to start MaximBio?

What makes Maxim Bio unique?

Why did you choose to run your business in Rockville?

Where do you see your business in 5 years from now?

About MaximBio

"All the new places to eat, drink, and play in the growing Maryland suburb."

“A Legacy of Celebrating Life”

Could you share the origin and history of Snowden Funeral Home?

How has your business adapted its services and practices over time while maintaining a connection to historical roots?

What makes Snowden Funeral Home unique?

Are there any community events or initiatives that Snowden Funeral Home has been/will be involved in?

What advice would give to new businesses aiming to become long-standing within the community?

About Snowden Funneral Home