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Rockville Economic Development, Inc. announces Nancy Regelin as new Chair of Board of Directors

Nancy Regelin - Chair - Board of Directors, Rockville Economic Development, Inc. (REDI)

Nancy's appointment as Chair follows her service as Vice Chair since 2020.

Rockville, Md., June 22, 2024 – Rockville Economic Development, Inc. (REDI) is pleased to announce the appointment of Nancy Regelin as the new Chair of the Board of Directors, effective July 1, 2024. Nancy has been a member of REDI’s Board since 2010, served as Vice Chair since 2020, and is the Chair of the Maryland Women’s Business Center Advisory Board. She succeeds Susan Prince, who led REDI’s Board since 2020.

Nancy Regelin brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role. As a Real Estate Law Shareholder at Shulman Rogers, Nancy is respected for her strategic thinking, effective communication, and adept management skills. She excels in implementing the vision of landowners, developers, and creative consultants, contributing to the creation of vibrant communities where people can live, work, and play. 

We are honored to welcome Nancy as our new Board Chair and look forward to benefiting from her continued vision and expertise,” stated REDI’s CEO, Cindy Rivarde.

Nancy has represented projects throughout Rockville, such as the Upper Rock District, but is most proud of her role in the public-private partnership to redevelop the Rockville Mall after its foreclosure in 1991 bringing back the heart of Town Center with new open space and a walkable street grid. Over the years since she has continued to be part of the teams to create entertainment, employment, and new housing opportunities for the community in Town Center.

“I have long considered Rockville as my adopted hometown and am honored to have the opportunity to serve to support economic development efforts so all of Rockville can prosper,” said REDI’s Board Chair, Nancy Regelin.

Nancy’s career began as a design engineer before she transitioned to law, where she has spent over three decades advancing innovative ideas, building consensus, and finding creative solutions to complex problems. She works to forge strong relationships with elected officials, community leaders, professional consultants, and other business owners.

In addition to her professional achievements, Nancy is the co-founder of The Power Conference, women’s business development event. Her commitment to supporting women-owned businesses underscores her passion for fostering economic growth and development.

 

About REDI

Rockville Economic Development, Inc. (REDI) is a public-private partnership that helps businesses launch, locate, and expand in Rockville, Maryland. Committed to economic development, REDI is proactive in supporting existing industries and attracting new companies with the tools to get started in Rockville and resources and guidance for existing companies in the city. To learn more, visit: https://rockvilleredi.org/   

Media Contact: Amanda Bosland, Marketing & Communications Director, REDI – amanda@rockvilleredi.org

 

About Shulman Rogers

Shulman Rogers is a full-service law firm with offices across the Washington metropolitan region. With 112 attorneys, the firm provides sophisticated, comprehensive counsel for clients in many areas including real estate, corporate, litigation, start-up, intellectual property, M&A and employment law, as well as a host of personal services. Learn more at https://www.shulmanrogers.com/

 

Governor Moore Announces $16.2 Million to Support Small Businesses and Community Revitalization Across Maryland

"When we invest in our small businesses, we invest in the neighborhoods they serve and the Marylanders they employ."

ANNAPOLIS, MD – Governor Wes Moore today announced that the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development has awarded more than $16.2 million to assist small businesses and support local revitalization projects and activities. Grants from the Business Boost Microgrant Program, the Main Street Improvement Grant, and Project Restore 2.0 will provide funds to 121 businesses, local governments, and place-based economic development organizations to spur community revitalization by attracting, retaining, and expanding small businesses, as well as through the promotion of local, cultural attractions and events.

“Community growth and business growth are inextricably linked. When we invest in our small businesses, we invest in the neighborhoods they serve and the Marylanders they employ,” said Gov. Moore. “Today, we take an important step toward building a more competitive economy and a more vibrant state.”

The Business Boost Microgrant Program helps businesses expand or establish locations, with preference for home-based businesses that are establishing their first commercial location outside of the home. Applicants are required to meet one or more of the priority impact attributes that contribute to Maryland’s economic growth, such as supporting minority and women-owned businesses, driving innovation or technology advancements, growing new industries, or leveraging existing regional strengths. Pending local approval, Business Boost will award $2,113,147 to assist 47 businesses, including:

  • Automating the manufacturing capabilities of Fyodor Biotechnologies (Baltimore City) to increase the production of its urine malaria test, the world’s first non-blood, home test for malaria that provides results in minutes.

  • Assisting Stylish Auto Dealer (Charles County) in acquiring and enhancing a second auto repair shop and launching its auto wholesale business. The expansion includes the hiring of mechanics and shop personnel.

The Main Street Improvement Grant Program provides operating assistance to local governments or economic development organizations in Maryland’s designated and affiliated Main Street Maryland communities and Baltimore City’s designated Main Street neighborhoods. Grants help awardees achieve their community revitalization and economic development goals, including creating and retaining small businesses and increasing tourism for local events and attractions. The program awarded $966,000 in grants to 47 awardees, including:

  • Funding for the Town of Centreville (Queen Anne’s County) to support its façade improvement program and to cover fees for National Main Street membership, website maintenance, photography, videography, and business promotions.
  • Design, construction, and installation of public art in the Main Street district of the Town of Thurmont (Frederick County).

Project Restore 2.0 activates vacant buildings, supports small businesses, and increases local economic activity by providing financial support to improve the vitality of Maryland’s commercial corridors. Unlike prior rounds of the program, which directly funded businesses, $13,193,363 was awarded as block grants to 55 place-based economic development organizations, nonprofit or local government entities that work to improve a specific jurisdiction within the state. Awardees including the City of Cumberland (Allegany County), the Bel Air Downtown Alliance (Harford County), and the Ocean City Development Corporation (Worcester County) will sub-grant the funds to for-profit businesses, nonprofit organizations, cooperatively owned businesses, and social enterprises to start up or expand into vacant buildings in their jurisdictions.

“To ensure the continued quality of our communities and to improve the quality of life for all their residents, we must revitalize their hearts – downtowns, Main Streets, and other important community hubs and places,” said Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Secretary Jake Day. “This important funding will provide strength by supporting the growth of small businesses that provide local services and job opportunities and the events and attractions that make Maryland’s unique, varied communities such great and lovable places.”

For more information about the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development business assistance and Main Street improvement programs, visit http://dhcd.maryland.gov.

Explore Rockville invites the Washington, D.C., region to cool down with Global Bites Fest Dining Days hot culinary deals through July 6

From June 22 – July 6, participating restaurants will offer exclusive deals and discounts through the Global Bites Fest Digital Passport, powered by Rockville Rewards.

Rockville, Md., June 26, 2024 – As the summer heats up, so does Rockville’s culinary scene. Rockville Economic Development, Inc. (REDI) is encouraging the Washington, D.C., region to beat the heat by dining locally and connecting with Rockville’s diverse population through its cuisine.

Following a successful food festival event in Rockville Town Square on June 22, Explore Rockville’s Global Bites Fest continues its cultural celebration with Dining Days through July 6. This unique take on a restaurant week promises to be a culinary adventure, offering food enthusiasts a unique opportunity to sample a diverse array of global cuisines right in the heart of Rockville.

Farmsook Thai Restaurant meal
La Speranza 1
La Speranza meal
Poyoteca assorted
Poyoteca Peruvian Rotisserie meal

“With our Global Bites Fest Dining Days, we invite everyone to tantalize their taste buds while cooling off from the summer heat,” expressed Amanda Bosland, Director of Marketing and Communications at REDI. “From the zest of authentic Thai appetizers to the sweetness of Peruvian desserts, a world of flavors awaits here in Rockville. Seize this opportunity to indulge in exclusive deals and delightful treats from our local eateries. Let’s savor this summer and make it truly unforgettable!”

From June 22 – July 6, participating restaurants will offer exclusive deals and discounts through the Global Bites Fest Digital Passport, powered by Rockville Rewards. The Digital Passport can be purchased for $20 each by visiting RockvilleRewards.com. Over a dozen local eateries feature exclusive deals, discounts, and special treats. Once purchased, customers can unlock and redeem the deals directly from their Android or Apple Wallet.

“Net proceeds from Rockville Rewards sales support a variety of local nonprofits and school programs, Bosland said. “As a bonus, participating in Rockville Rewards unlocks a variety of local deals and experiences, everything from dining and events to goods and services, in and around Rockville through August 31st.

Global Bites Fest Card_Updated
Participating Dining Days Restaurants:
  • Bonchon Chicken Rockville: For $20, you can choose small wings or a small combo and a house cocktail or soda. For only $5 more, you can add fries, four potstickers, or edamame.

  • Farmsook Thai Kitchen: Receive a free appetizer when you purchase any two entrees.

  • Island Pride Jamaican Restaurant: Purchase a small meal and receive a free side order. Side orders include Sweet potato, rice and beans, steamed white rice, greens, cabbage with mixed vegetables, mac and cheese, and plantains.

  • La Speranza Restaurant: Get 15% off any hot or cold sandwich.
  • Plaza Oaxaca: Choose 25% off three taco platters or 25% off margaritas—one per customer.
  • Poyoteca Peruvian Rotisserie: Receive your choice of Tres Leches cake, flan, or Alfajor cookie for free with the purchase of an individual meal.
  • Soulfull Café: Get 15% off any hot or cold sandwich.
  • Bontanero: Enjoy exclusive happy hour specials from 4 pm to 6 pm Monday through Friday in the bar, patio, and dining room. Every Monday, enjoy half-priced sangria pitchers all day long.
  • Bogarts: Enjoy a free appetizer when you purchase any entrée.
  • Bread Corner Café: Receive a half-price drink.
  • Downtown Brew’s: Get 20% off ceviche on Tuesdays, 10% off all bottles of wine on Wednesdays, plus lunch specials on Tuesday – Saturday.
  • Teamania: Enjoy any beverage at 50% off.

“REDI is thrilled to host Explore Rockville’s Global Bites Fest,” said Susan Prince, Board Chair of REDI. “This event not only highlights Rockville as an epicenter of culinary diversity and excellence but also drives traffic, attracts new customers, and boosts sales, contributing significantly to the vitality of our local food industry.”

Explore Rockville promotes Rockville, Maryland’s vibrant culture and community. We aim to unite people to celebrate the rich tapestry of our city’s culinary and cultural offerings through events like the Global Bites Fest. Learn more at https://explorerockville.org/

The Global Bites Fest Digital Passport is part of the Rockville Rewards program. This shop small initiative is supported by the City of Rockville and Rockville Economic Development, Inc. in partnership with the Greater Rockville Chamber of Commerce. Learn more at https://rockvillerewards.com/

Rockville Economic Development, Inc. (REDI) is a public-private partnership that helps businesses launch, locate, and expand in Rockville, Maryland. Committed to economic development, REDI is proactive in supporting existing industries and attracting new companies. Learn more at: https://rockvilleredi.org/   

Embark on a flavorful journey at Explore Rockville’s Global Bites Fest: Three Experiences, One Epic Culinary Celebration

Explore Rockville: Global Bites Fest

Explore Rockville invites everyone to join the celebration of global cuisine and cultural diversity from June 22 to July 6, 2024.

Rockville, Md., May 28, 2024 – Explore Rockville, a program of Rockville Economic Development, Inc. (REDI), proudly announces the highly anticipated Global Bites Fest, set to transform Rockville into a culinary paradise from June 22 to July 6, 2024. This unique festival invites food lovers and cultural enthusiasts to experience a world of flavors in the heart of Rockville, Maryland, with three experiences: a one-day, in-person food festival, 15 days of restaurant specials, and unique culinary-themed restaurant events.

Global Bites Fest starts with a vibrant in-person event on Saturday, June 22, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Rockville Town Square. Attendees will be treated to an array of mouthwatering dishes prepared by local restaurants and vendors, live performances showcasing the community’s diverse culture, and interactive activities for all ages. Rockville Town Square will also become a designated beverage district, allowing attendees to purchase and enjoy to-go alcoholic beverages from participating restaurants during the festival.

According to WalletHub, the City of Rockville consistently ranks as one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the United States. Residents of Asian descent represent 21.6% of Rockville’s population, which has grown from its 2010 proportion of 20.6%. The Hispanic or Latino population was 16.6 percent of the population, while Black or African American Rockville residents comprised 10.9% of the total population.

“REDI is thrilled to host the Global Bites Fest kick-off event in partnership with Morguard,” said Susan Prince, Board Chair of REDI. “This event not only highlights Rockville as an epicenter of culinary diversity and excellence but also drives traffic, attracts new customers, and boosts sales, contributing significantly to the vitality of our local food industry.”

Continuing the culinary celebration, Global Bites Dining Days invites food lovers to explore hidden culinary gems and savor authentic dishes across the city. From June 22 to July 6, participants can use the Rockville Rewards Digital Card to access exclusive deals and discounts at participating restaurants.

Additionally, participating restaurants will host “Foodie Function” events on select days throughout the festival. These ticketed experiences will feature live cooking demonstrations, themed dinners, exclusive tastings, expertly curated beverage pairings, and engaging sessions with guest speakers, providing an immersive culinary journey.

Explore Rockville invites everyone to join this celebration of global cuisine and cultural diversity. For more information about the Global Bites Fest and how to participate as a restaurant, please visit https://explorerockville.org/global-bites-fest/.

SPONSORED BY:

 


 

About Explore Rockville

Explore Rockville promotes Rockville, Maryland’s vibrant culture and community. We aim to unite people to celebrate the rich tapestry of our city’s culinary and cultural offerings through events like the Global Bites Fest. Learn more at https://explorerockville.org/

About Rockville Economic Development, Inc. (REDI)

Rockville Economic Development, Inc. (REDI) is a public-private partnership that helps businesses launch, locate, and expand in Rockville, Maryland. Committed to economic development, REDI is proactive in supporting existing industries and attracting new companies with the tools to get started in Rockville and resources and guidance for existing companies in the city. To learn more, visit: https://rockvilleredi.org/   

The Intersection of Business and the Arts

“The future belongs to a very different kind of person with a very different kind of mind – creators and empathizers, pattern recognizers, and meaning makers.” - Daniel H. Pink, A Whole New Mind (2007)

Baltimore artist and banker Terry Thompson is one of those people who embodies the intersection of the arts and business, bringing creativity and discipline to both endeavors. Thompson is not only successful in the corporate world, but he is also a recognized visual artist with his own vocabulary of motifs, as well as an experienced event planner and DJ.  According to Thompson:

“I believe that my art practice helps me in the business world in so many ways, especially in thinking outside the box when it comes to approaching new ideas in the finance industry. There are a multitude of rules and regulations that govern the way the finance world operates, so it is helpful to be able to take a fresh, creative look at things – leveraging the way that I approach thinking about painting – being spontaneous, explorative, and investigative vistas. “

The key to developing innovative and creative thinking that can be brought into the business or innovation environment lies in experiencing the arts.   Learning to write, play music, paint, or dance all requires developing the skill to see the big picture of the overall piece as well as focus on the details in execution.  Spending time in the act of an arts discipline increases the ability to internalize and recognize patterns, nuances, and express unique ideas.  These skills lead to success when applied in other endeavors. 

According to Americans for the Arts in their Arts and Economic Prosperity 6 report, 86% of Americans “say art and culture is ‘important to their community’s quality of life and livability.’”  The report presents compelling data about the arts as a business sector, as well as the impact and importance of the arts to other business sectors (79% of Americans agree that the arts are good for local businesses and jobs).   Overall, nonprofit arts and cultural organizations in the United States spent over $73.3 billion in 2022, created 2.6 million jobs, and leveraged $78.4 billion in spending by audiences.  They also brought in $29.1 billion in tax revenue at federal, state and local levels.  

“Right here in Montgomery County, nonprofit arts and culture is a $184 million industry that supports 3,963 jobs – $125 million in spending by organizations, which leverages an additional $59 million in spending arts audiences on items such as dining, parking, retail”, according to Randy Cohen, the VP Of Research for Americans for the Arts.  “The 2.6 million attendees at Montgomery County’s nonprofit arts and culture events spend an average of $23.06 per person, per event, beyond the cost of admission on items such as meals, parking and lodging – vital income for local businesses.” 

But more important is how the arts propel individuals and other businesses to success.  In 2012 The National Governor’s Association identified five key roles of art in economic development.

  • Providing faster and more dynamic industry cluster growth
  • Helping mature industries be more competitive
  • Acting as key catalysts for creation of innovative placemaking
  • Helping revitalize communities, and
  • Creating a workforce better prepared to solve problems.

A majority of Americans surveyed by Americans for the Arts assert that arts and culture are important to community identity and pride, and that engaging in the arts creates empathy and understanding of people with different backgrounds, ages, ethnicities, and beliefs. 

The challenge of how we create strong community and better economy is ever changing, especially as we redefine and refine our goals, but art and culture remains the center of the opportunity to understand each other, create empathy, and find creative innovative ways of thinking. 

Thompson’s works are on display at the Rockville Economic Development, Inc. (REDI) office (51 Monroe Street, PE20, Rockville, MD) from May 20 – July 26, 2024, where entrepreneurs,  businesses and community members can engage with Thompson’s work on Wednesdays between 2-5pm and Fridays between 1-3pm (excluding holidays). 

Artist Talk on Tuesday, May 21 at 5:30pm. Visit https://terrythompson-artisttalk.eventbrite.com for more information and RSVP.

About REDI

Rockville Economic Development, Inc. (REDI) is a public-private partnership that helps businesses launch, locate, and expand in the City of Rockville, Maryland. REDI is committed to economic growth in Rockville, offering support to existing industries and helping new businesses get started in the city. To learn more, visit: https://rockvilleredi.org/

Rockville Economic Development, Inc. (REDI) presents strategies for small-scale manufacturing with Rock East District Boost report

Rock East District - Experiences Made Here

Rock East District is a collaborative initiative that showcases businesses, services, and recreational offerings along East Gude Drive in Rockville.

Rockville, Md., Apr. 4, 2024 – Rockville Economic Development, Inc. (REDI), is pleased to announce the launch event for the Rock East District Boost report, scheduled for Thursday, April 18 at the Rev Room at 660 Lofstrand Lane in Rock East District. This event marks a significant milestone in REDI’s ongoing efforts to promote economic growth and community vibrancy through placemaking.

Since its inception in 2021, Rock East District has been a collaborative initiative that showcases businesses, services, and recreational offerings along East Gude Drive in Rockville. As Rockville’s pilot placemaking project, it has highlighted the community’s unique assets and potential.

The Rock East District Boost report is the result of meetings, interviews and focus groups with Rock East District businesses, City and County stakeholders, and community organizations, including the Montgomery County Black Collective, the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce – Montgomery County, and the Asian American Chamber of Commerce. Supported by a place-based grant awarded by Montgomery County in 2023, the report outlines actionable recommendations to harness the area’s potential, including bolstering Rock East District as a small-scale manufacturing hub.

The launch event will present key findings and recommendations to drive economic development in Rock East District. Attendees will learn more about the initiative, discover resources and key contacts, and provide feedback to guide the development of Rock East District.

REDI invites Rock East District businesses, community business groups, and media to attend the launch event and encourage them to RSVP by visiting bit.ly/RockEastDistrict by Monday, April 15th.

For more information about Rock East District and REDI’s economic development work in Rockville, visit www.rockvilleredi.org.

About REDI

Rockville Economic Development, Inc. (REDI) is a public-private partnership that helps businesses launch, locate, and expand in the City of Rockville, Maryland. Committed to economic development, REDI is proactive in its efforts to support existing industry and attract new businesses with the tools to get started in Rockville, and resources and guidance to existing businesses in the city. To learn more, visit: https://rockvilleredi.org/

 

Danette Nguyen chosen for the Leadership Maryland Emerging Leader Program inaugural class

Maryland Women’s Business Center Managing Director one of 40 selected to participate in Leadership Maryland’s new six-month professional development program

Easton, Md., Apr. 2, 2024 – Leadership Maryland announced today that Danette Nguyen, Managing Director of Maryland Women’s Business Center  has been chosen to participate in their statewide professional development program as a member of the new Emerging Leader Program’s Class of 2024.

Nguyen is one of 40 individuals chosen for the Leadership Maryland Emerging Leader Program’s first class, who will complete the six-month, hands-on learning program focused on leadership development. The program will run from June to November, consisting of monthly day-long sessions that will include both interactive training led by a facilitator and panel discussions featuring leaders from across the state as guest speakers. The program’s curriculum offers a holistic approach to leadership development, designed to help each applicant increase their self-awareness and gain behaviors, skills, and tools to become more adaptive, inclusive, strategic, and impactful leaders.

“We are excited to announce the very first Emerging Leader class and welcome these motivated and forward-thinking individuals to our new program,” said David Fike ’16 (LM) president and CEO, Leadership Maryland. “This year’s class selection process was highly competitive, and after careful review of the applications, I am thrilled to share that the 40 members of the Class of 2024 represent a dynamic cross-section of ambitious and promising rising leaders. The knowledge, experience, and connections they will gain in our program will prepare them to become more adaptive and impactful leaders in their careers and communities.”

Leadership Maryland’s Emerging Leader Program is open to individuals who are advancing in their careers, are actively involved in their communities, and desire to become stronger leaders in both areas. Ideal Leadership Maryland members have a desire to learn more about Maryland’s most critical issues and a personal commitment to be a force for positive change in their organizations, their communities, and their state. For more information about Leadership Maryland, please visit leadershipmd.org, call 410-841-2101 or email info@leadershipmd.org.

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/

 

About Leadership Maryland

Leadership Maryland is a statewide nonprofit offering professional development programs dedicated to building a better Maryland by harnessing the strength of its business and community leaders. Established in 1992, Leadership Maryland’s Executive Program selects as many as 52 diverse and accomplished senior-level leaders from Maryland’s public and private sectors each year to come together as a class for an eight-month learning program focused on the state’s most vital social, economic and environmental issues. And new in 2024, Leadership Maryland’s Emerging Leader Program brings together a class of the state’s rising stars and gives them the skills and tools they need to advance in their careers. With an alumni network comprised of leaders from all industries and regions of the state, Leadership Maryland has established thousands of Marylanders on their career leadership path, equipped with the knowledge, skills, and connections needed to influence positive change. To learn more, visit leadershipmd.org.  

 

Maryland Women’s Business Center featured in El Tiempo Latino newspaper

El Tiempo Latino is the largest Spanish-speaking newspaper in the DMV

El Tiempo Latino, the largest Spanish-language newspaper in the Washington D.C. metro area, has highlighted the Maryland Women’s Business Center’s (MWBC) mission, impact and commitment to empowering women-owned businesses in a February 2024 article. 

Martha Jimenez, MWBC Program Manager for Montgomery County and Francisco Cartagena, MWBC Program Manager for Prince George’s County, spoke with El Tiempo Latino about the organization’s goal to foster entrepreneurship and business growth among business owners from underserved communities, including Latino business owners.  

MWBC's digital article as seen on El Tiempo Latino website (accessed March 4, 2024)

El Tiempo Latino notes: Aunque la organización se centra en las mujeres, por las barreras que existen y la desigualdad de oportunidades, está abierto a la comunidad en general y los latinos son clave/ Even though the organization’s focus is on women because of existing barriers and inequality of opportunities, [MWBC] is open to everyone, and Latinos are a key part.”  

Read the full article MWBC feature in El Tiempo Latino: Maryland Women’s Business Center. Eliminando barreras (eltiempolatino.com)  

 

Governor Moore Announces $10 Million for Small Business Grants to Strengthen Local Economies Across Maryland

"Together, we will continue to make Maryland more competitive by moving in concert with entrepreneurs and small businesses – not in conflict with them.”

Annapolis, MD, Feb. 21, 2024 – Governor Wes Moore today announced $10 million for small business and community development grants through the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development’s Project Restore 2.0 and Business Boost grant programs. The funding will activate vacant spaces in business corridors, support small businesses with start up or expansion funds, create jobs, and increase local economic activity—all to make Maryland more competitive.

“When storefronts close down, our entire state feels it. Now is the time to work in partnership with the private sector to revitalize our business districts, and that’s what this grant funding is about,” said Gov. Moore. Together, we will continue to make Maryland more competitive by moving in concert with entrepreneurs and small businesses – not in conflict with them.”

Project Restore 2.0 will provide $8 million to designated Main Streets, Arts and Entertainment Districts and other economic development organizations in a designated Sustainable Community. Grants of up to $300,000 per applicant will go to organizations that have identified priority vacant storefronts or buildings in local business districts. Those organizations would then sub-grant the funding to businesses for rental assistance, renovation and equipment to activate those vacant spaces. Businesses that receive sub-granted funds will have until December 2025 to open and be operational.

Business Boost is launching its first round of grant funding with $2 million that will be awarded directly to eligible small business owners in amounts between $20,000 and $50,000. The businesses must be new or expanding and located in designated Sustainable Communities. Preference will be given to businesses that are home-based and seeking their first commercial location, are designated as a Minority Business Enterprise, that are innovative, focused on regional strengths to grow local economies, or leverage partnerships between school districts or other education institutions in Maryland.

“By strengthening the successful Project Restore grants to fill storefronts on Maryland main streets and launching Business Boost, we are building on what we know to be the best way to help grow Maryland communities’ economies: from the center out, empowering locally-owned businesses, and bringing life back to vacant storefronts,” said Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Secretary Jake Day. “These grants are just the beginning of the department’s renewed efforts to double down on the hearts of our cities and towns, maximizing the positive impact of our funding to create lovable places and help businesses choose to set up shop in Maryland.”

Applications will open on March 13 for small business owners to apply through Business Boost and for economic development organizations to apply through Project Restore 2.0. For more information on either grant opportunity, go to https://dhcd.maryland.gov/Business/Pages/Small-Business-Grants.aspx.


Link to press release: https://governor.maryland.gov/news/press/pages/governor-moore-announces-10-million-for-small-business-grants-to-strengthen-local-economies-across-maryland.aspx

Celebrating and Elevating Rockville’s Black Businesses

Multicolored banner with 'Support Black Businesses" and "Black History Month - February"
 

In recognition of Black History Month, REDI launched an ongoing project that highlights Black-owned businesses in our local economy while also connecting them to resources that support business growth including:

Business NameCategoryAddressWebsite
ACB Precision Focus PhotographyPhotographer15209 Frederick Rd, Rockville, MD 20850http://www.acbprecisionfocus.com/
Wilniq Auto Body & Mechanical RepairAuto Body Shop15563 Frederick Rd Shop J, Rockville, MD 20855https://wilniq.business.site/
S.L. Johnson Plumbing and HeatingPlumber330 N Stonestreet Ave Suite T, Rockville, MD 20850
Creative Motion Events by FayEvent PlannerRockvillehttps://www.creativemotionevents.org/
Island PrideRestaurant823 Hungerford Dr, Rockville, MD 20850http://www.jamaicanfoodrockville.com/
York Castle Ice CreamIce Cream Shop827 Hungerford Dr, Rockville, MD 20850https://www.facebook.com/York-Castle-Ice-Cream-1222731884411060/#_=_
Excalibur Moving and StorageMoving and Storage12221 Parklawn Dr, Rockville, MD 20852http://www.excalibur-movers.com/
Black Lion Coffee & CaféCafé9705 Traville Gateway Dr, Rockville, MD 20850http://blacklioncafe.com/
Revered Medical, LLCMedical Clinic6246 Montrose Rd, North Bethesda, MD 20852https://reveredmedical.com/
IllumnovateProject Management9709 Key West Ave, Rockville, MD 20850https://illumnovate.net
Maryland Black Chamber of CommerceBusiness Organization15800 Crabbs Branch Way, Suite 300. Rockville, MD 20855https://www.marylandbcc.org/
Fight into FitnessBoxing Gym15213 Display Ct, Rockville, MD 20850https://www.fightintofitness.com/
Impaired Artistry InstituteStudio966 Hungerford Dr, #31B, Rockville, MD 20850https://www.impairedartistryinstitute.org/
DMV Movers, LLCMoving 15955 Frederick Road, Rockville MD 20855https://dmvmoversllc.com/
Rife International, LLCRenewable Energy Consultant2275 Research Blvd., Suite 500, Rockville, MD 20850https://rifeintl.com/
Betah Associates, Inc.Business Consultant199 E. Montogomery Ave., Rockville, MD 20850https://www.betah.com/
At Eaze MassageMassuese5801 Fishers Ln, Suite 108, Rockville, MD 20852https://www.ateazemassage.com/
WFT Engineering, Inc. Engineering Consultant1801 Research Blvd., Rockville, MD 20850https://wfteng.com/
Unlimited DetailingAuto Care2383 Lewis Ave, Rockville, MD 20851https://www.unlimiteddetailinginc.com/
Omega 3 NutritionFood Manufacturing 1313 E Gude, Rockville, MD, 20850https://eatomega3.com/
Walk in Closet Beauty BarPersonal Care211 E Middle Ln, Rockville, MD 20850https://walkinclosetbeauty.com/
Bubblegum SpaEvent Location/Planner1680 E Gude Dr #100, Rockville, MD 20850https://bubblegumspa.com/
Snowden Funeral HomeFuneral Home/Services246 N. Washington Street, Rockville, MD 20850https://www.snowdencares.com/
Ethiopis RestaurantRestaurant825 Hungerford Dr, Rockville, MD 20850https://www.ethiopisrestaurant.com/
Lion Solutions, LLCInformation Technology7361 Calhoun Place,
Rockville, MD 20855
https://lionsolutions.com/
Hammer & Stain RockvilleArts & Decor107-B Gibbs Street, Rockville, MD 20850https://www.hammerandstainrockville.com/
First Choice Primary CareMedical Practice9715 Medical Center Drive, Suite 300, Rockville, MD 20850https://www.firstchoiceprimary.com/

We encourage and appreciate the submission of additional Black-owned businesses in Rockville!