Olympic Indoor Sports: Elevating Athletic Training with HCEDA’s Catalyst Fund 

For athletes to reach their full potential, they need access to high-quality facilities, expert coaching and the right training resources. But for small business owners who provide these services, securing funding to invest in their vision can be one of the biggest challenges. The HCEDA Catalyst Fund is designed to help businesses overcome those obstacles, providing financial support to those who are building something that strengthens the local community. 

For Chandra, owner of Olympic Indoor Sports Inc., getting financing through traditional banks was an uphill battle. But with the support of the Catalyst Fund, he was able to invest in the equipment and infrastructure needed to turn his state-of-the-art, 20,000-square-foot indoor training facility into a reality. Today, Olympic Indoor Sports provides athletes across multiple sports with an elite training environment that wasn’t available in the region before. 

Building a Vision for Elite Training 

Chandra’s journey into the world of sports started as a parent. When his child began playing cricket nearly a decade ago, he became involved in the cricket community. He volunteered to help teams improve their skills and performance. What began as a way to support his child quickly turned into a deeper commitment to the sport and the athletes who played it. 

Through his work in the cricket community, Chandra noticed a gap. There were few high-quality indoor training facilities in the DMV area, and those that did exist lacked the necessary equipment and infrastructure to truly support an athlete’s development. It was clear that a dedicated, well-equipped space was needed—somewhere athletes could train year-round with professional coaching, strength and conditioning programs, and high-performance equipment. 

“As part of that, we have been to a few academies and a few indoor facilities, but we couldn’t find the right state-of-the-art facility where you have this kind of infrastructure. You don’t see this kind of best facility in at least the DMV area.” 

Chandra saw an opportunity to fill this gap. He envisioned Olympic Indoor Sports Inc. as a comprehensive training facility that provided athletes with everything they needed under one roof. 

The Challenges of Securing Business Funding 

Despite a strong vision and clear demand for a high-quality training facility, securing funding to bring the idea to life wasn’t easy. Like many small business owners, Chandra turned to banks for financing, but the response wasn’t what he hoped for. 

“Prior to that, I reached out to a couple of banks, but since it is a new business, they were not encouraging much. And it was a hard time for me.” 

For traditional lenders, new businesses often carry too much risk, making it difficult for entrepreneurs to secure the financing they need to launch or expand. Without a strong financial track record, Olympic Indoor Sports faced challenges in getting the backing required to invest in the best training equipment and facility upgrades. 

How the HCEDA Catalyst Fund Made a Difference 

When banks turned him down, Chandra found the support he needed through HCEDA’s Catalyst Fund. Unlike traditional lenders, HCEDA saw the potential in Olympic Indoor Sports and understood the impact it could have on the local sports community. 

“EDA bought into the concept of what I was trying to build. They funded my equipment upgrading and also new equipment purchasing.” 

With the Catalyst Fund’s support, Olympic Indoor Sports was able to: 

• Upgrade existing equipment to provide athletes with the best possible training tools 

• Purchase new, high-quality equipment to improve performance and training outcomes 

• Invest in facility enhancements to create an elite-level indoor training environment 

The ability to secure funding through HCEDA allowed Chandra to stay true to his vision. He wasn’t willing to settle for subpar equipment or an inadequate training environment. He wanted to create a world-class facility that would produce high-quality athletes. 

“I wanted to invest in the best and get the best quality equipment and quality infrastructure here so that we can make quality players.” 

The investment made possible through the Catalyst Fund is already paying off, providing athletes with an unparalleled training experience. 

A Facility Built for Excellence 

Olympic Indoor Sports is a state-of-the-art, 20,000-square-foot training facility located in Columbia, Maryland. Designed to meet the needs of athletes across various disciplines, it has quickly become one of the premier indoor sports facilities in the region. 

“We provide all kinds of coaching, training, infrastructure, equipment, strength and conditioning, gym, media—everything. You get one shot.” 

The facility is built around a comprehensive approach to training that includes: 

• Professional coaching and skill development to help athletes refine their techniques 

• Strength and conditioning programs designed to build endurance, agility, and strength 

• High-quality equipment that meets international training standards 

• Elite cricket training programs, making it one of the best indoor cricket facilities in the area 

• A multi-sport training space that accommodates athletes across different disciplines 

Olympic Indoor Sports is more than just a facility—it’s a training destination for serious athletes who want to push their limits and reach their full potential. 

Encouraging Other Small Businesses to Apply for the Catalyst Fund 

The success of Olympic Indoor Sports is a testament to how the right funding can turn an idea into a thriving business. Chandra now encourages other small business owners to explore what the Catalyst Fund can do for them. 

“I strongly encourage all small businesses to get the Catalyst Loan. It will help you to get started.” 

Beyond financing, HCEDA also connects businesses with valuable resources and partnerships, making it easier to navigate the challenges of running and expanding a business. 

“If you have any problem with any kind of processes or any kind of questions, they are helpful to connect to the Chamber of Commerce and other partners in the system.” 

For small business owners, having access to capital and a strong support network can make all the difference. The Catalyst Fund provides both, helping businesses secure funding, connect with industry experts, and grow sustainably. 

A Game-Changer for Small Businesses and Athletes 

With the help of HCEDA’s Catalyst Fund, Olympic Indoor Sports has gone from vision to reality, creating a training facility that provides athletes with the tools and support they need to excel. 

For other small business owners looking to secure funding for expansion, equipment upgrades, or facility improvements, the Catalyst Fund is a resource worth exploring. 

Learn more about how the HCEDA Catalyst Fund can help your business thrive: HCEDA Catalyst Fund 

Want to experience Olympic Indoor Sports for yourself? Visit: Olympic Indoor Sports