Empowering Entrepreneurs: 2026 EmPOWER Mentorship Program

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

EmPOWER Mentorship Program Graduates

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

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

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

• Friday, January 30, 2026 - Introduction to Entrepreneurship 

• Friday, February 6, 2026 -

  Planning for Your Business

• Friday, February 13, 2026 - 

  Managing Your Business 

• Friday, February 20, 2026 - Marketing Your Business 

• Friday, February 27, 2026 - 

  Growing Your Business

• Friday, March 6, 2026 - 

  Doing Business in Frederick County 

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

SBDC Instructor teaching class.

EmPOWER Mentorship participant with her products.

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

Rebuilding Careers: City of Frederick Connects Talent to Opportunity

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

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

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

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

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

  • Upcoming Events:

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

  • Time: 9:00 AM 11:00 AM

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

  • Time: 9:00 AM 10:30 AM

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

  • Time: 1:00 PM 2:00 PM

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

• Time: 9:00 AM 12:00 PM

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

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

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

Foreign Trade Zone advantages in Frederick

Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) has been utilized in adjacent Washington County for several years and now that incentive zone is a powerful tool for Frederick companies navigating global supply chains. For businesses in Frederick City and County, participation in Foreign Trade Zone #255 (FTZ #255)—administered through Washington County—opens the door to meaningful cost savings, streamlined operations, and increased competitiveness.

Established in 2002, FTZ #255 allows companies to reduce, defer, or even eliminate duty fees on imported goods. These benefits can significantly improve cash flow and lower operating costs for manufacturers, distributors, and logistics‑driven businesses.

In October 2023, the U.S. Department of Commerce approved Washington County’s application to restructure FTZ #255 under the Alternative Site Framework (ASF). This modernized structure makes it faster and easier for businesses—including now those in Frederick—to access FTZ benefits. The zone now spans 2,000 acres across five zones and one subzone, all designed to support industrial and commercial growth.

The Foreign Trade Zone appeals to a broad industry sector, including manufacturing, logistics, life sciences, technology, retail, automotive, pharmaceuticals, and more. As global competition intensifies, FTZs offer a meaningful advantage for companies sourcing or operating internationally.

For Frederick‑area businesses looking to expand, reduce costs, or optimize supply chains, FTZ #255 represents a valuable opportunity. Use this form to receive additional information or schedule a time to meet with local FTZ administrators.

Manufacturers that import and export could potentially benefit from Foreign Trade Zone #255.

Frederick receives state FY 26 Revitalization & Economic Development Grants

Maryland Governor Wes Moore recently announced $69.5 Million in FY 26 awards for statewide Community Revitalization and Economic Development, and several Frederick projects and initiatives will be the beneficiary of these grant awards.

These revitalization programs administered by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development provide local government and community development organizations tools to support revitalization initiatives.

Awards offered through these programs will bolster a wide range of revitalization and redevelopment efforts, such as expanding and retaining local businesses, enhancing façades and streetscapes, encouraging homeownership and home rehabilitation, strengthening commercial improvement initiatives, upgrading community facilities, advancing mixed‑use development, and supporting necessary demolition work.

The City of Frederick’s Economic Development team provides comprehensive support for these state-funded grant initiatives, including grant writing and required documentation, organizational coordination, compliance management, and ongoing reporting to ensure successful execution and stewardship of public resources.

Community Legacy awarded more than $8 million to 38 projects in designated Sustainable Communities throughout Maryland. FY 26 Frederick projects include:

• City of Frederick Historic Building Improvement Program: Mission Interior and Fire Suppression. Continuation of the City of Frederick's Fire Suppression Incentive Program and Mission Interior Program. Grant Award: $100,000.00

• City of Frederick National Museum of Civil War Medicine: Building Improvements. Support critical capital improvements to the National Museum of Civil War Medicine that include both exterior restoration, facade renovation, and interior system upgrades. Grant Award: $150,000.00

• Habitat for Humanity of Frederick County, Inc.. West All Saints Condominium Work Force Home Ownership Construction. Rehabilitating three abandoned properties with new construction of four structures to create a 12-unit condominium to be sold to Habitat qualified homeowners. Grant Award: $150,000.00

The Maryland Façade Improvement Program awarded $5 million to 47 communities. Funds will be used to enhance the character and attractiveness of local business districts by improving the exterior façades of buildings and facilities. In Frederick, this includes:

City of Frederick Facade Grants available via:

Downtown Frederick Partnership

East Frederick Rising

Golden Mile Alliance

• City of Frederick Façade Improvement Program. Continue to operate three commercial façade improvement programs across The City of Frederick's Historic Downtown, East Frederick, and "Golden Mile" commercial corridor. Grant Award: $200,000.00

The Strategic Demolition Fund supports activities that accelerates economic development in existing Maryland communities, awarded $10 million to 25 projects. Frederick projects include:

DHCD Secretary Jake Day, Braeden Bumpers, Owner of McClintock Distilling, Mayor O’Connor

• City of Frederick Downtown Frederick Hotel and Conference Center. Support ongoing predevelopment and architectural and engineering designs for the development of the Downtown Frederick Hotel and Conference Center. Grant Award: $500,000.00

• Frederick Food Hall. Rehabilitation of historic building to host a small-scale food hall in downtown Frederick. Grant Award: $200,000.00

Demolition of Bierly Building as part of the site preparation for the future Downtown Hotel and Conference Center.

For a full list of Fiscal Year 2026 awards, visit FY26 State Revitalization Program Awards.

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For more information about programs and resources at the city, county and state, contact our Economic Development team at 301.600.6360 or schedule a meeting here.

Strengthening Small Businesses: Final Outcomes of the ACCESS GRANTED Program

Building on the findings outlined in the ACCESS GRANTED Interim Report, this final report captures the full scope and impact of the City of Frederick’s $400,000 investment in 55 small businesses citywide. Since the release of the interim update, the City has completed final reporting and gathered direct feedback from grant recipients, revealing measurable outcomes ranging from reduced operating costs and facility improvements to business expansions and new market launches. Collectively, these results highlight the program’s role in strengthening local enterprises, particularly women- and minority-owned businesses, while highlighting the diverse ways ACCESS GRANTED supported long-term business sustainability.

“The grant funding has been instrumental in closing our operational gaps, allowing us to compete at a higher level while maintaining the personal attention our clients expect.”

— A&S Construction

Serious About Science

The impact of this grant on my business has been substantial: The help towards funding a computer for video editing allowed me to complete my video curriculum, selling 5 kits this year. Last year I only sold 1 kit. With upcoming conferences this year, I will sell more kits to statewide students across 9 states. The computer also allowed me to serve 78 students with virtual journal clubs. Going forward, this equipment will be used among the local community, increasing my visibility in the area, and increase sales coming in 2026.

Head Rush Studio

The ACCESS GRANTED award had a significant impact on our organization. The funded plumbing installation made it possible for us to open and operate in our new salon location. Because of this, Head Rush Studio has been able to expand services, increase client capacity, and create new employment opportunities. The award directly supported our growth and stability over the past year.

Swirls of Frederick

The current impact of the grant award for Swirls is our growing customer base. We have the 5 Stars rewards program on our POS system whereby customers sign up as rewards members. Most of our local customers have signed up this year which allows us to communicate promotions and events as well as to obtain data to gauge our customer growth. Over 2025, we have obtained 2518 rewards member customers. Many of these customers learned about our business through our four grant sponsored events and Valpac direct mailings. This grant has helped us go from an unknown dessert shop to a brand with a local emotional connection.

“The grant award has been instrumental in helping our business grow over the past few months. We were able to invest in medical equipment that was not only needed at the clinic but also brought in more patients. We couldn’t be more thankful to Frederick for making this grant available to small businesses in the area. ”

— Advanced Functional Health and Wellness, LLC

Asian Supermarket

The grant has had a significant impact on the overall performance of Asian Supermarket. The upgrades have led to a 15% increase in monthly revenue, driven by enhanced inventory management, faster checkout times, and the introduction of online sales. The new inventory management system has decreased stockouts by 20% and reduced overstocking by 10% directly improving product availability and cash flow management. These upgrades have strengthened our financial performance and improved customer satisfaction, helping to solidify our role as a key resource for the Frederick community. We are committed to building on this momentum and expanding our services to support long-term success.

Market St Investments LLC

It has made a drastic impact in our utility bills during the summer months (June, July & August), and the winter months (November, December, January & February) have shown the most benefit. Repairs to the HVAC system, re-sealing walls, ceilings and doors has enhanced the comfort to our guest in extreme weather conditions. Replacing the damaged areas on the roof has afforded us the opportunity to do cosmetic improvements to the interior of the property. These improvements have restored pride of ownership as a property owner in the Downtown Arts and Entertainment District.

Squadstyle

The ACCESS GRANTED grant has had a transformative impact on Squadstyle, enabling us to significantly enhance both the functionality and appeal of our space. In addition to improving member experiences, these upgrades are also generating new revenue streams. With the expanded Wellness Patio, we’re now able to rent out this space for events and wellness retreats, which is diversifying our income sources and contributing to the financial growth of our business.

“The grant has had a significant positive impact on Glam by Shaddy business. With the upgraded equipment, the business has been able to serve 40% more clients, leading to a 25% increase in monthly revenue. The marketing efforts helped Glam by Shaddy gain over 1,000 new followers on social media platforms and secure 20 new repeat clients within a few months.”

— Glam by Shaddy

Across the program, similar outcomes were reflected in final reports from recipients who used funds for equipment purchases, facility upgrades, inventory expansion, and technology improvements. Together these examples demonstrate how ACCESS GRANTED’s flexible funding model allowed businesses to address their most critical needs — whether reducing overhead, expanding capacity, or preparing for their next phase of growth — while reinforcing the City of Frederick’s commitment to supporting small businesses through targeted, accountable investment.

View the full list of awardees here.

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To learn about more DED resources, programs and incentives, visit our website www.businessinfrederick.com.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photo Credit: DED, Ali Chaturbhai

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.

2025 S.H.E. Pitch Recap: Construction and Cookies Win First Place

The 2025 S.H.E. Pitch competition put Frederick’s women entrepreneurs in the spotlight once again, with finalists pitching ideas and established businesses before a live audience and panel of judges.

Hosted at Hood College’s Hodson Auditorium, the annual S.H.E. Pitch event is part of the Frederick County Chamber of Commerce’s S.H.E. Week. A long-time event sponsor of S.H.E. Pitch, the City of Frederick’s Department of Economic Development (DED) was honored to serve on both the judging panel and selection committee again this year.

Rick Weldon, President, Chamber of Commerce

Michelle & Family, Owner of Sweet Maddie's

Past SHE Pitch Winners

Mary Ford-Naill, City of Frederick, SHE Pitch Judge

Why S.H.E. Pitch Matters

The pitch competition amplifies the visibility of women-led businesses and connects them with mentors, resources, and the greater Frederick community as female entrepreneurs compete for cash prizes in either the “idea stage” and “growth stage” of business. Winners are awarded over $10,000, offering vital financial support and investment in their business success.

Meet the Winners

Two Frederick City businesses walked away with the win. Sweet Maddie’s – Cookies on Demand, founded by Michelle Bryan, won the Growth Stage prize in addition to the People’s Choice Award. NCE BIM Consulting, led by Ngoc Chau, earned first place in the Idea Stage category.

Ngoc Chau, NCE BIM Consulting

Idea Stage Winner: Ngoc Chau, NCE BIM Consulting

About NCE BIM Consulting: NCE BIM Consulting is a forward-thinking construction company that focuses on leveraging cutting-edge technology to excel in both commercial and residential building projects. The company’s expertise lies in the strategic application of 3D technologies, revolutionizing workflows and productivity, particularly in managing large-scale endeavors. Founded in 2020, NCE BIM Consulting enhances the construction process through innovative Building Information Modeling (BIM) solutions that elevate construction projects with confidence and precision.

Ngoc Chau, NCE BIM Consulting

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Michelle Bryan, Sweet Maddie’s – Cookies on Demand

Growth Stage Winner: Michelle Bryan, Sweet Maddie’s – Cookies on Demand. Michelle also took home the People’s Choice Award, securing an additional $500.

About Sweet Maddie’s – Cookies on Demand: Sweet Maddie’s Bakery has created gourmet cookies, desserts, and from-scratch cakes for lovers of sweet things for over a decade. A family-run business, Sweet Maddie’s is dedicated to providing fresh-baked goods that are made with all-natural ingredients, free from preservatives and additives, with many ingredients sourced from small, local businesses whenever possible. Today, Sweet Maddie’s operates as a fully licensed online bakery, baking out of the commercial kitchen The Cutting Board.

Michelle Bryan, Sweet Maddie’s – Cookies on Demand

For the DED, continued support reflects a long-term commitment to cultivating diverse entrepreneurship and supporting businesses at phase.

A full recap of the event is available through the Frederick News-Post.

Photo credit: Acacia Bowens, AK’s GraFix & Photo

To connect about programs and resources supporting business growth and expansion, reach out to the City’s Economic Development team - businessinfrederick@cityoffrederickmd.gov

Interim Report: ACCESS GRANTED Small Business Impact -

Last year, the City of Frederick awarded $400,000 in competitive grants to 55 small businesses through its ACCESS GRANTED program. Recipients represented a broad mix of industries and neighborhoods across the city—including health and wellness providers, personal care services, retail shops, food and beverage ventures, tech startups, fitness studios, and creative enterprises.

As part of the grant process, awardees were required to submit interim reports detailing the impact of the ACCESS GRANTED funding on their businesses, with final reports due by December 31, 2025.

Here’s a look at some of their inspiring stories so far.

The diversity of the selected businesses—from industries to ownership backgrounds—not only reflects the vibrancy of Frederick’s entrepreneurial ecosystem but also aligns with the ACCESS GRANTED program’s mission to support inclusive economic growth. This strong demand and broad representation underscore the ongoing need for targeted support for small businesses.

ACCESS GRANTED was launched with a clear mission: to empower small, for-profit businesses with 25 or fewer employees—located within the City of Frederick. While this interim report highlights early outcomes and success stories, the city remains committed to evaluating the program's long-term impact and identifying additional ways to support small business growth and resilience.

We can’t wait for the final report from the remainder of the businesses!

Grant awardee impact - 88Visual: This Emmy-award winning video agency used the grant to upgrade to high-end video equipment, further solidifying its status as a leading creative media business in Frederick. With this investment, 88 Visual continues to produce high-quality content as it grows its reputation and client base across the region.

Unlocking Opportunity. Empowering Businesses.

If you'd like to learn more about economic development opportunities in Frederick, schedule a meeting with our DED team today at www.businessinfrederick.com.

To learn more about grant programs and other resources, visit the Department of Economic Development at www.businessinfrederick.com.