We Mean
Business in
Howard County
Located in Maryland directly between Baltimore and Washington, D.C., Howard County gives businesses and individuals the resources and support for limitless success.
Why Howard CountyTools & Resources
Small & Minority Business
Howard County Economic Development Authority offers the support to help small and minority-owned businesses thrive. Explore resources and opportunities for local enterprises, minority-owned businesses and new entrepreneurs interested in innovating on new levels.
Taxes & Incentives
Find the best fit for your company’s unique needs with our variety of programs, incentives and tax credits, whether you're looking to expand, diversify or relocate to the “Greenest County in the United States.”
Major Employers
Learn about some of the biggest businesses charting exceptional growth in Howard County. From major healthcare centers, Fortune 500 companies and the nation’s largest university-affiliated research center, some of the most ambitious businesses meet here in Maryland.
Featured News + Events
NextGen Founders: Building Howard County’s Next Generation of Entrepreneurs
This summer, high school and college students gained more than work experience through our 2026 summer internship program. They spent the summer working alongside our business units and Maryland Innovation Center companies while building the skills, connections and confidence to take their next steps. Through the Summer 2026 Youth in Business Series: NextGen Founders, interns also
LIFT Fund Helps Candles by Candy Turn Funding Into Business Growth
Access to capital can help a small business move forward. Pairing that capital with the right guidance can help an entrepreneur decide where to go next. For Candles by Candy, support through our LIFT Microloan Fund provided both. Founder Candace Bell has grown Candles by Candy from a passion for candle making into a Howard
What Howard County Businesses Gain from Business Appreciation Week
Running a business comes with plenty of opportunities and challenges. Business Appreciation Week gives Howard County businesses a direct way to share both with the people working to support the local business community. From September 28 through October 2, 2026, Ambassador teams will visit businesses across Howard County during Business Appreciation Week. The goal is simple: