Our Team

Jennifer Jones is an industry thought leader with over 20 years of business and leadership experience in the private and public sectors. During her tenure in the public sector, Jones has been an integral part of the Howard County business ecosystem, directly assisting and forging valuable relationships with thousands of Howard County businesses. Over the course of her career, Jones has served as the Deputy Chief of Staff for the Howard County Government, where she helped thousands of businesses survive and thrive through the pandemic. She also served as the Vice President of Business Development at Live Nation, where she was responsible for business analysis and market expansion.

In her most recent role as Business Development Strategist for the County Executive’s Office, Jones advised on economic development, holding over a dozen business roundtables to understand and address challenges, and implemented entrepreneurship and small business initiatives. Jones is an active Howard County resident and public servant, serving as a board member of several community and business organizations, including the Howard County Tourism Board, Columbia Festival of the Arts, Howard County National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), Downtown Columbia Partnership and the Howard County Center of African American Culture.

Jones holds a Juris Doctor from Pepperdine University School of Law, a Master of Business Administration from Pepperdine University School of Business, and a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Purdue University.

Areas of Responsibility: Marketing, Communications, Public Relations

Jesse Trahan brings over two decades of marketing, communications, and public relations experience to his role as Director of Marketing and Communications for the Howard County Economic Development Authority. A strategic and versatile professional, Jesse is adept at driving growth and success for organizations across diverse industries. He oversees all advertising, promotions, and marketing activities aimed at stimulating economic development and attracting new business opportunities to Howard County.

Before joining the Howard County Economic Development Authority, Jesse honed his skills through positions such as marketing consultant, public relations account executive, public information officer, and marketing communications specialist. His expertise encompasses marketing operations, media relations, digital marketing, brand management, copywriting, social media, and event planning. He holds an MBA from Penn State University and a Bachelor of Science in Mass Communication from Towson University. With his proven ability to deliver innovative campaigns and strategic solutions, Jesse is dedicated to driving growth, enhancing brand visibility, and fostering economic prosperity for businesses in Howard County.

Areas of Responsibility: Catalyst Loan Fund, LIFT Fund, Incentives

Darshni joined the HCEDA in May 2016. Since then, she has held various positions in the organization. Currently, Darshni oversees the Business Finance Unit which manages Catalyst and LIFT Loan programs as well as business incentives including Howard County property tax credit and Howard County workforce training grant programs. Darshni holds a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a minor in Sociology from Pennsylvania State University. Darshni is a resident of Howard County.

Areas of Responsibility: Economic Research, Data Management and Analysis

Zach Jones joined the Howard County Economic Development Authority in January 2019, where he leads the research and data analysis efforts of the organization. His research focuses on benchmarking Howard County’s industry and labor markets against its peers to identify strengths and opportunities in the county. Additionally, Zach is tasked with the management and analysis of internal Howard County Economic Development Authority data to increase the efficacy of the organizations operations and report on outcomes.

Prior to his time with Howard County Economic Development Authority, Zach was the Director of Market Research at the Economic Alliance of Greater Baltimore (EAGB). There he provided research consulting services for partners like Baltimore Gas and Electric (BGE), Ellin & Tucker, Betamore, and numerous economic development organizations within the region. In partnership with the Maryland Department of Commerce, Zach developed the Maryland Cybersecurity Asset Map, which catalogues the State’s world-class cyber ecosystem. Zach graduated from Towson University, where he spent three years of his undergraduate career conducting economic research with the Regional Economic Studies Institute. After graduating, Zach continued to conduct economic and policy research at Towson University, while concurrently building an extracurricular student entrepreneurship experience at the university.

Areas of Responsibility: Redevelopment, Gateway Master Plan

Jason Jannati is a highly motivated community developer and a leader within the clean-tech and entrepreneurial ecosystem. Recognized by the Obama White House for efforts in sustainability and job creation, also Baltimore Sun’s Top 10 under 30 to watch and 2011 SBA Young Entrepreneur of the Year.

Jannati graduated from Oakland Mills High School and shortly began building greeNEWit, a company that helped homes and businesses become more energy efficient. Jannati then led the land development strategy for Power 52 Energy Solutions, which developed many of the solar farms that are being built today in Howard County.

Raised in Columbia MD, principles of equality, diversity and community impact were instilled in Jason from an early age. With a mother who was a social worker and a father who immigrated to the United States in his early twenties, ingenuity, compassion and the spirit of entrepreneurship are at the core of Jason’s values as a father, husband, and man.

Areas of Responsibility: Business Engagement, Retention, Cybersecurity/IT, International Initiatives

Bob Zhang leads the business development team at the Howard County Economic Development Authority (HCEDA), focusing on business engagement, retention, and attracting new businesses to the county. He also supports the cybersecurity/IT sector and drives international initiatives by promoting export opportunities and foreign direct investment.

Bob’s professional background includes experience with Fortune 500 companies, IT consulting firms, and the federal government, giving him a deep understanding of various industries. In 2011, he founded his own business to help small and medium-sized enterprises enhance their digital presence. His commitment to public service is evident in his decade-long contributions to Maryland’s diplomacy and international initiatives, recognized by the National Association of Secretaries of State for his outstanding contributions. From 2012 to 2023, Bob served as Commissioner of the Maryland Governor’s Commission on Asian-Pacific American Affairs, where he chaired the business subcommittee. In 2019, he was appointed to the Maryland-Washington DC District Export Council by the U.S. Secretary of Commerce, where he assists local exporters in expanding into global markets.

Bob holds a master’s degree in Applied Information Technology from Towson University and a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Louisiana.

Areas of Responsibility: Finance, Accounting

Laura joined the Howard County Economic Development Authority team in August 2023. She manages the accounting for the organization, including budgeting, accounts payable and receivable as well as reconciliations and accounting database management. Laura has 8 years of accounting experience and brings with her a keen attention to detail, the ability to multitask, and an enthusiasm for our community. Prior to joining the Howard County Economic Development Authority team, Laura worked as the Finance Manager at a Howard County e-commerce company. She began her career in the non-profit world working for the American Red Cross in marketing and donor recruitment.

Laura has lived in Howard County since 2008 and has enjoyed the high quality of life in the area with her husband and 2 children. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in History and a Minor in Business Administration from UNC Chapel Hill.

Areas of Responsibility: Maryland Innovation Center Programming and Memberships, BRITE program

As Director of Maryland Innovation Center programs, Tracy oversees program implementation and ensures that programming is aligned with MIC’s strategic goals and objectives. From administering the BRITE program and improving access to resources to developing monthly lunch & learns and building community, Tracy plays a central role in supporting the Maryland Innovation Center’s mission.

Tracy’s background in education, administration and program management helps to ensure that Maryland Innovation Center's programs are curated, add value to the business community and are successfully delivered.

Tracy holds a BA degree in English with a concentration in Communication from the University of Maryland.

Areas of Responsibility: Agriculture, Ag Tech, Agricultural Innovation Grants

As the Director of Agricultural Business Development for Howard County Economic Development Authority, Kathy is the first point of contact for Howard County farmers wanting to start or grow a farm. Kathy helps farmers navigate through the process by assisting them with the preparation of business plans, zoning or other permitting issues needed to operate in Howard County; she also provides assistance to farms looking to diversify. Growing up on her family’s dairy farm in Dickerson, MD, Kathy brings a unique and personal perspective to the position — one that garners respect from the farmers she assists.

Kathy holds a degree in Dairy Science with a minor in Agriculture Business from Delaware Valley College and is a LEAD Maryland Class VIII fellow.

Areas of Responsibility: Business Retention and Expansion (BRE)

Jinal Contractor is dedicated to fostering the growth and expansion of the local business community through a multifaceted approach encompassing technical assistance, coaching, education and strategic connections. With more than eight years of experience as an architect, designer, and consultant, Jinal brings a wealth of expertise and insight to this role. Her background as a small business owner in Howard County has sharpened her ability to innovate and lead teams toward success. This diverse skill set, highlighted by certifications such as IEDC BRE and LEED AP from USGBC Maryland, enhances Jinal's ability to deliver impactful results and empower businesses to thrive.

Passionate about promoting diversity, innovation and sustainability, Jinal is dedicated to driving positive change within Howard County's business community and beyond. Jinal holds a Master of Science in Interior Architecture from Drexel University and a Bachelor of Architecture from The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda in India. Jinal’s dedication ensures that Howard County's business community remains competitive and resilient.

Areas of Responsibility: LIFT Fund Program, Underwriting, Economic and Community Development

Angella Aizire Manages and oversees the LIFT Fund Program. She is responsible for receiving and processing applications, providing technical assistance to small businesses, underwriting loans, and conducting outreach activities to promote the LIFT Fund Program.

Angella joined Howard County Economic Development Authority in September 2023 as the Microloan Administrator, after working in the financial services field for over 20 years. She has extensive experience in assisting existing and potential entrepreneurs access the capital they need to start or grow their businesses. Her core competencies include marketing and community outreach, loan origination, and analytical, interpersonal, and communication skills in multicultural settings. Angella holds a Master of Professional Studies’ Degree in International Development from Cornell University, and a Bachelors’ Degree in Economics from Makerere University. Her passion is Community and Economic Development.

Areas of Responsibility: Community Engagement, Special Projects Management and Stakeholder Communication and Reporting

Kierra Kimmie currently serves as Associate Director of Strategic Outreach for Howard County Economic Development Authority. In this role, Kierra works to seek new community partners and establish relationships with organizations that strengthen the network of Howard County Economic Development Authority. Kierra also manages stakeholder communication and reporting to the County Administration, Board of Directors and community partners. She joined Howard County Economic Development Authority as an intern in 2011 and has continued to grow and expand her roles and responsibilities within the organization over the years. With more than 10 years of exposure to the many facets of economic development - from supporting loan and tax credit programs to administrating the HoCo RISE Grant Program - Kierra leverages her experience, and ability to create inclusive and innovative solutions within the realm of economic development, making her a strong asset to the Howard County Economic Development Authority team.

Kierra is a long-time Howard County resident and a proud Wilde Lake High School alumna. Kierra earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Therapy from Shenandoah University and a Master’s Degree in Special Education from McDaniel College.

Areas of Responsibility: Maryland Innovation Center Membership and Operations, Facilities

Jillian Joseph leads Maryland Innovation Center's Client Services team. Jillian is responsible for overseeing each company’s journey at the Maryland Innovation Center, from onboarding to graduation, ensuring a stellar customer experience every step of the way. Jillian manages the day-to-day operations of the Innovation Center, and supervises Maryland Innovation Center's administrative personnel for quality service. Jillian also plays a pivotal role in supporting the organization’s overall strategy by gathering, maintaining, and reporting member data and progress.

Jillian brings with her a wealth of experience in community development, marketing, and client relations. She has held client service and sales director positions in Washington, DC and New York City, but her most recent work in her native district showcases her commitment to the Howard County business community. As Executive Director of the Ellicott City Partnership (ECP), Jillian was instrumental in stewarding relationships with stakeholders in Old Ellicott City to stimulate economic activity in the aftermath of two devastating floods and a global pandemic. Her expertise in sales and customer service, event planning, and small business advocacy makes her a valuable resource at the Maryland Innovation Center. As a Columbia native and proud graduate of the HCPSS, Jillian cares deeply about the success of the local economy, and is honored to be a part of the Maryland Innovation Center community, fostering business growth for startups and providing strategic guidance for small business owners. She attended St. Mary’s College of Maryland where she studied English Literature and Theatre, Film, and Media.

Areas of Responsibility: Catalyst Loan, Finance

Melanie began with the Howard County Economic Development Authority in 2021 as the Staff Accountant and Financial Analyst. Prior to that, Melanie worked as a staff accountant in the nonprofit circuit where she provided accounting support to fast growing nonprofit organizations. Venturing out to California, Melanie landed the position of Assistant Controller at Target Medical Pharma where she assisted in the development of strategies to increase pharma awareness of small private practices. Melanie holds a bachelor’s in business accounting from Bowie State University.

Areas of Responsibility: Accounting

Jane Cantor’s areas of responsibility include processing and recording daily and monthly accounting transactions and reconciliations and support for budgeting and financial statements.

Jane worked in public accounting until she earned her CPA license, at which point she began a long and successful career in the construction industry as an accounting manager and controller for homebuilders and general contractors. Jane’s experience includes auditing, financial statement preparation and analysis, budgeting, account analysis, accounts receivable and payroll.

Jane is passionate about looking for ways to maximize accounting software by finding shortcuts and implementing overlooked features. She is enthusiastic to bring her accounting knowledge and passion for streamlining to support all areas of the organization.

Jane is a graduate of Drexel University with a BA in Business Administration. In her spare time, she loves listening to music, enjoying nature and wildlife, watching all sorts of sporting events, and spending time with her family. Jane is also an avid supporter of animal rescue.

Areas of Responsibility: Social Media, Newsletter, Content, Website

In her role as the Content Strategist at the Howard County Economic Development Authority, Michele leads the planning and execution of dynamic content strategies aimed at enhancing the organization’s online presence. With over 12 years of experience, a B.A. in Advertising and P.R., and an M.S. in Marketing, she is deeply passionate about crafting data-driven content that resonates with the target audience and yields measurable outcomes.

Her expertise spans marketing communications, strategic communications, social media marketing, paid search and paid social. She brings a proven track record of successfully overseeing extensive content projects across diverse platforms and industries.

Areas of Responsibility: Graphic Design, Website

Ural Akyuz is a highly accomplished and versatile artist, bringing over three decades of expertise to his role as Lead Designer at the Howard County Economic Development Authority. With a background that spans graphic design, art direction, multimedia, web design, 3D animation, 3D modeling, illustration, and more, Ural possesses a diverse skillset that allows him to tackle a wide range of visual and creative projects with ease.

Before joining the Howard County Economic Development Authority, Ural honed his talents through various roles, including Art Director at Relay Publishing and Senior Graphic Design Specialist at Tensaflex Flexible Solutions. He has worked with renowned clients across industries such as publishing, advertising, interactive media, web, mobile, and illustration. Notably, Ural has directed book cover designs for bestselling genres like Young Adult Fantasy, Post-Apocalyptic, Urban Fantasy, and Fantasy Romance, leveraging his skills in typography, visual communication, and market research.

Ural's expertise extends to corporate identity, branding, product development, printed material designs, web design and coding, motion animation, and 3D work. With a Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design from Marmara University, he combines formal training with over 30 years of freelance experience, during which he has consistently delivered innovative and impactful designs for clients across the globe. At the Howard County Economic Development Authority, Ural's multifaceted talents and wealth of experience position him as a valuable asset in creating compelling visuals that drive economic growth and promote the region.

Areas of responsibility: Room Rentals, Badges, Operations, Facilities

Sydnee contributes to the MIC's exceptional level of service by helping residents, affiliates and guests take advantage of the its programs, groups and community engagement opportunities. She also coordinates and manages several project areas and helps with the extensive background work that keeps the MIC running smoothly. Sydnee grew up and was educated in Howard County.

Areas of Responsibility: Board of Directors, CEO and Maryland Innovation Center Support

Christine joined the team in January 2024. Christine brings 15 years of experience working in one of the world’s premier global law firms, she has honed her skills in high-pressure environments, thriving on providing meticulous client support. Her journey in a global law firm has equipped her with an acute understanding of client needs, and she seamlessly translates that knowledge into personalized solutions as a Client Services Associate. Diligent, resourceful, and adept at fostering client relationships, she is committed to delivering unparalleled service in every professional interaction. She excels in ensuring seamless communication and support between clients and Howard County Economic Development Authority team. With a passion for fostering strong client relationships, she leverages her organization skills to streamline processes and exceed client expectations. Her commitment to delivering exceptional service is reflected in her proactive approach and attention to detail, making her an invaluable asset in managing client and team needs while enhancing overall client satisfaction.

Christine lives in Howard County with her husband and daughter and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Washington College.

Areas of Responsibility: Research, Data Analysis, Economic Development

Amel Lightfoot is a dedicated research assistant with a strong focus on data analysis and economic development. She launched her career as a Strategy Intern at the Howard County Economic Development Authority during the summers of 2023 and 2024, where she refined her skills in research and analysis to support key economic initiatives.

A recent graduate of Goucher College, Amel holds a degree in Economics with a minor in Peace Studies. During her time at Goucher, she served as a student-athlete, Resident Assistant, and Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for the Goucher Student Government. Her academic background provides a comprehensive understanding of the intersection between economic development and social justice, with a particular focus on addressing disparities in underserved communities.

A native of Howard County and an alumna of Oakland Mills, Amel is also a volleyball coach, actively involved in giving back to her community. With her mother being a local business owner, she has a deep empathy for the challenges faced by small businesses. Amel is committed to driving positive change through economic development and community engagement.