REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY ANNOUNCES $1 MILLION IN FUNDING FOR COMMERCIAL PROPERTY IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM

REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY ANNOUNCES $1 MILLION IN FUNDING FOR COMMERCIAL PROPERTY IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM

Largo, MD --- The Redevelopment Authority of Prince George's County (RDA) announced today that $1 million in funding is available through the Commercial Property Improvement Program (CPIP) and applications for funding are now being accepted. Applications are available starting today, October 21, 2024, and the deadline to submit the application is December 9, 2024, by 12:00 p.m. The CPIP was established to assist owners of shopping centers and retail street storefronts properties with improving exterior facade, place making, lighting, and major building systems improvements that enhance retail competitiveness and viability.

“We are excited to announce this year’s round of Commercial Property Improvement Program funds,” said County Executive Angela Alsobrooks. “Economic development has been a key priority throughout my administration. These types of grants are crucial in supporting our growing business community and our overall efforts to strengthen Prince George’s. Through this grant opportunity, we are able to support the revitalization of shopping centers and other retail spaces, which will attract new businesses to the County and create jobs for Prince Georgians right here at home.”

The CPIP will require a 50% applicant match for all program funding awarded to approved shopping centers and retail space for eligible improvements. Therefore, applicants must be able to pay for half of the total project cost in order to apply for the CPIP funding. The minimum grant is $50,000 for $100,000 in total project costs and the maximum grant is $350,000 for $700,000 or more in total project costs.

The goal is to select applicants with the strongest market potential for investment. Commercial space occupied exclusively by places of worship or non-retail uses will not be funded. Shopping center owners who were the recipients of the 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 or 2023 CPIP funding are not eligible to apply for this year’s funding.

While CPIP will reimburse up to 50% of approved construction costs as costs are incurred and documented, architectural design and permit costs will not be reimbursed until after construction is completed. In addition, construction on the approved project must begin within 90 days after grant approval and must be completed within 180 days after approval. Incomplete submissions will not be accepted.

The CPIP Notice of Funding, application, and responses to questions can be found on the RDA website: https://www.princegeorgescountymd.gov/departments-offices/redevelopment-authority/grants/commercial-property-improvement-program.

Questions may be sent to Victor E. Sherrod at CPIP@co.pg.md.us.

Prince George's County Economic Development Corporation Congratulates Local Companies on Making The Washington Business Journal's Top 50 Fastest Growing Companies List

Prince George's County Economic Development Corporation Congratulates Local Companies on Making The Washington Business Journal's Top 50 Fastest Growing Companies List

The companies land at the #31, #35, and #50 spots on the coveted listing

Largo, MD – Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation (PGCEDC) is proud to congratulate Premier Enterprise Solutions, LLC, SanDow Construction, Inc., and Apex Petroleum Corporation for being recognized among the Top 50 Fastest Growing Companies on The Washington Business Journal’s prestigious “The List.” This achievement underscores the incredible growth and success that businesses headquartered in Prince George’s County are achieving as they continue to expand and innovate across industries.

"We are thrilled to see Premier Enterprise Solutions, SanDow Construction, and Apex Petroleum Corporation recognized among the fastest-growing companies in the region," said David Iannucci, President & CEO of PGCEDC. "This recognition is a testament to the thriving business climate we have fostered here in Prince George’s County. It shows that businesses of all sizes and industries can flourish, expand, and achieve great success by taking advantage of the County's supportive economic environment."

The success of these three companies reflects the diverse and dynamic economic landscape of Prince George’s County:

Premier Enterprise Solutions, LLC is a leading IT solutions provider, specializing in cybersecurity, cloud services, and business intelligence. Their consistent innovation and expansion of services have driven remarkable growth, allowing them to serve clients across the public and private sectors.

SanDow Construction, Inc. is a prominent construction firm that has seen impressive growth through its commitment to excellence in building infrastructure and community projects, from residential developments to commercial real estate projects throughout the region.

Apex Petroleum Corporation is a key player in the fuel distribution industry, delivering critical resources to businesses and organizations across the DMV area and beyond. Their expansion reflects the County’s robust transportation and logistics capabilities.

The inclusion of these businesses in The Washington Business Journal’s “The List” is a reflection of the growth potential within Prince George’s County. With PGCEDC’s support, local businesses are not only staying competitive but thriving and expanding on a regional and national scale. Prince George’s County offers companies a variety of resources, including access to financing, workforce development programs, real estate assistance, and connections to key business networks that help facilitate continued growth.

PGCEDC remains focused on attracting and supporting businesses across all sectors, ensuring they have the tools, resources, and community partnerships necessary to achieve their full potential. As these companies continue to scale new heights, their growth will serve as a beacon for future businesses that Prince George's County is the ideal place for innovation, opportunity, and success.

About Prince George's County Economic Development Corporation

PGCEDC's mission is to cultivate and promote a strong local economy supporting entrepreneurs' and businesses' growth and prosperity. It is dedicated to strengthening communities through business development and job creation. For more information about Prince George's County Economic Development Corporation's services to local companies, visit www.pgcedc.com.

Media Contact:

Rhett Butler

Marketing & Communications Manager, PGCEDC

(301) 345.5334

rbutler@co.pg.md.us

Prince George's County Economic Development Corporation Celebrates Economic Development Week in Maryland

Prince George's County Economic Development Corporation Celebrates Economic Development Week in Maryland

Business Development team delivers Certificates of Recognition from the County honoring their economic contributions

Largo, MD—Prince George's County Economic Development Corporation (PGCEDC), in partnership with the Maryland Economic Development Association (MEDA), is celebrating Economic Development Week in Maryland.

Since 2011, this week-long observance has highlighted the transformative impact of economic development on communities and individuals. This year's Economic Development Week will occur from Monday, October 21, through Friday, October 25. Events and activities hosted by various statewide economic development organizations will highlight the efforts and initiatives to improve business retention, job growth, and quality of life for Maryland residents.

As part of the celebrations, PGCEDC's Business Development team will visit a hundred businesses and deliver Certificates of Recognition from County Executive Angela Alsobrooks, congratulating County businesses on their contributions to the County.

PGCEDC is honored to celebrate Economic Development Week in Maryland, highlighting the crucial role that economic development plays in the state's ongoing prosperity and growth.

"Our businesses are the lifeblood of Prince George's County," said Iannucci. "From small startups to established enterprises, they contribute to the diverse economic landscape that makes this County a prime destination for innovation and growth. Maryland Economic Development Week allows us to honor these businesses and thank them for their role in building a prosperous future for all residents."

As part of the week-long celebration, Prince George's County Executive Angela Alsobrooks issued a proclamation declaring October 21 through 25th as Prince George's County Economic Development Week.

About Prince George's County Economic Development Corporation

PGCEDC's mission is to cultivate and promote a strong local economy supporting entrepreneurs' and businesses' growth and prosperity. It is dedicated to strengthening communities through business development and job creation. For more information about Prince George's County Economic Development Corporation's services to local companies, visit www.pgcedc.com.

Media Contact:

Rhett Butler

Marketing & Communications Manager, PGCEDC

(301) 345.5334

rbutler@co.pg.md.us

Five Prince George's County Electrical Contractor & Mechanical Contractor Companies Make Washington Business Journal's "The List"

Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation Congratulates Five Prince George's County Electrical Contractor & Mechanical Contractor Companies Making WBJ's "The List"

Prince George's County boasts four of the top ten Electrical Contractor companies,

PGCEDC congratulates the Prince George's County-based companies included in the Electrical and Mechanical Contractors categories in the Washington Business Journal's Book of Lists. Prince George's County boasts four of the top ten Electrical Contractor companies, including Power Soultions, LLC in Bowie, the number one company, and J.E. Richards, Inc. (a Phalon Company) in Lanham, the number two company.

Power Solutions has been working with some of the country's largest general contractors for over twenty years, crafting, building, and maintaining electrical systems for hospitals, data centers, medical laboratories, telecommunications centers, government and military institutions, and more.

J.E. Richards, Inc., owned by Phalcon, has a team of highly skilled electricians, project managers, and estimators who have completed electrical work for utility, commercial, institutional, industrial, and municipal customers of all sizes. We have always kept up our capabilities with the vast changes taking place in the electrical and construction industries – and have invested heavily in strategic industry partnerships – resulting in an unparalleled depth of ability, knowledge, and experience to serve the unique needs of their clients.

The Electrical Contractors top ten list also included Freestate Electrical Cos., located in Laurel, at number four, and C3M Power Systems, LLC, in Capitol Heights, at number seven. On the Mechanical Contractors list, Capitol Heights-based Adrian L. Merton, Inc., the only county company on the list, rounded out the top three.

Washington Business Journal's Book of Lists provides an in-depth look at the largest and most influential players defining our local economies. WBJ researchers compile rankings from original and often exclusive data.

About Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation

PGCEDC’s mission is to cultivate and promote a strong local economy that supports the growth and prosperity of entrepreneurs and businesses, dedicated to strengthening communities through business development and job creation. For more information about Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation’s services to local companies, visit www.pgcedc.com.

Media Contact:

Rhett Butler

Marketing & Communications Manager, PGCEDC

(301) 345.5334

rbutler@co.pg.md.us

PGCEDC Facilitates Critical Dialogue Between Purple Line Corridor Businesses and Community Stakeholders

PGCEDC Facilitates Critical Dialogue Between Purple Line Corridor Businesses and Community Stakeholders

The effort was led by PGCEDC Latin Business Manager Rocio Treminio-Lopez-Lopez

ADELPHI - Prince George's County Economic Development Corporation (PGCEDC), under the leadership of Latin Business Manager Rocio Treminio-Lopez, recently facilitated a key conversation between business owners along the Purple Line Corridor and essential community stakeholders. This important initiative was designed to create a platform for businesses affected by the ongoing Purple Line construction to voice their concerns and engage in meaningful dialogue with local authorities.

The discussion, held in response to the challenges posed by the long-term construction, brought together a diverse group of business owners and community leaders and allowed them to express their concerns, ranging from operational disruptions to customer access and safety considerations, while fostering an open dialogue on how to mitigate these issues.

“This conversation is part of a larger, ongoing effort to ensure that our small businesses are supported and heard during this challenging period,” said Rocio Treminio-Lopez. “By bringing together stakeholders from both the business community and local government, we are making progress towards solutions that ensure the economic vitality and safety of the Purple Line Corridor.”

As Purple Line construction continues to affect the region, PGCEDC remains dedicated to empowering local businesses and fostering collaborative efforts that drive progress. Through initiatives like these, the organization will continue to ensure that the voices of business owners are heard and that impactful solutions are put into action.

About PGCEDC:

The Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation (PGCEDC) is committed to fostering growth and development for businesses throughout the County. Through strategic initiatives and partnerships, PGCEDC provides support and resources to local businesses, driving economic prosperity for the region.

Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation Congratulates Executive Vice President Ebony Stocks, CEcD

Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation Congratulates Executive Vice President Ebony Stocks, CEcD

CEcD designation is the highest certification available to economic development professionals

LARGO, MD — Prince George's County Economic Development Corporation (PGCEDC) proudly announces that its Executive Vice President, Ebony Stocks, has earned the Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) designation, the highest certification available to economic development professionals. This prestigious certification is a testament to Ebony's extensive knowledge, expertise, and commitment to advancing the economic vitality of Prince George's County.

The CEcD certification, awarded by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), is a testament to Ebony's dedication and hard work. It is a rigorous and comprehensive program that requires candidates to demonstrate a mastery of economic development skills, including business retention and expansion, real estate development and reuse, and economic development finance. With this certification, Ebony Stocks joins an elite group of professionals who have achieved the highest standard in economic development.

As Executive Vice President, Ebony Stocks has been instrumental in driving initiatives that have led to significant economic growth and development in Prince George's County. Her new certification not only validates her expertise but also reassures us of her ability to lead and implement strategic initiatives that will continue to support the county's economic prosperity.

"I am honored to have achieved the Certified Economic Developer designation, which represents a significant milestone in my career," said Ebony Stocks. "This certification not only deepens my understanding of the complex dynamics of economic development but also equips me with the latest tools and best practices to better serve Prince George's County. I am excited to apply this knowledge to further the mission of PGCEDC and contribute to the continued growth and success of our community."

PGCEDC President & CEO David Iannucci also praised Stocks' accomplishment, stating, "Ebony's achievement of the CEcD certification is a remarkable accomplishment that reflects her dedication to excellence in economic development. Her leadership and expertise have been vital to our organization, and this certification will only enhance her ability to drive positive change and growth in Prince George's County."

This accomplishment underscores PGCEDC's commitment to fostering a highly skilled leadership team dedicated to advancing economic development efforts in Prince George's County. With Ebony Stocks' enhanced expertise, the organization is poised to continue its trajectory of success, supporting local businesses, attracting new investment, and creating a vibrant economic environment for all residents.

About Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation

PGCEDC’s mission is to cultivate and promote a strong local economy that supports the growth and prosperity of entrepreneurs and businesses, dedicated to strengthening communities through business development and job creation. For more information about Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation’s services to local companies, visit www.pgcedc.com.

Governor Moore Announces Recipients of Maryland Department of Commerce ‘Build Our Future’ Grants

Governor Moore Announces Recipients of Maryland Department of Commerce ‘Build Our Future’ Grants

LARGO, MD - Governor Wes Moore announced that the Maryland Department of Commerce had awarded 11 grants totaling $9 million through the Build Our Future Grant Pilot Program. The recipients represent projects that will support innovation infrastructure development in eligible technology sectors. With some Prince George’s County based tech companies as grant recipients, Expansion Starts Here for the tech sector. The announcement was made late last month.

“To make Maryland more competitive, we need to turbocharge those areas of our economy that are producing fresh ideas and innovative new technologies,” said Gov. Moore. “These grants will not only help individual businesses grow, but will also help establish tools and resources to support growing industries.”

The Build Our Future Grant Pilot Program—part of the Governor’s Innovation Economy Infrastructure Act of 2023—provides grants of up to $2 million to private companies, nonprofit entities, local governments, or colleges and universities. Eligible industry sectors include advanced manufacturing, aerospace, agriculture, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, blue technology, cybersecurity, defense, energy and sustainability, life sciences, quantum, and sensors and robotics.

“This proves yet again that Prince George’s County is the Capital of Quantum with this investment growing the county’s tech ecosystem,” said Mayank Kapur, PGCEDC Director of Business Development, I.T. & Cybersecurity. “With the region making an international impact in the tech sector, this investment from the Department of Commerce will further cement Prince George’s County as an industry leader in technology.”

After a two-phase application process, the Department approved 11 projects for funding:

CraniUS – $1,000,000 to establish a Device Innovation Lab to prototype and test implantable medical devices, enabling direct delivery of medicine to the brain. (Baltimore City)

Early Charm Ventures – $500,000 to retrofit the HEAT Center in Aberdeen into an innovation center, including wet labs, safety features and instrumentation for the materials industry. (Harford County)

InventWood – $1,000,000 for constructing a pilot manufacturing and innovation center to produce MettleWood®, a 100% wood material that is 50% stronger than steel while providing meaningful carbon sequestration benefits. (Frederick County)

Ion Storage Systems – $1,000,000 for buildout of solid-state battery research and development and manufacturing facility. The batteries use a ceramic solid-state electrolyte structure and are meant to replace lithium-ion batteries. (Prince George’s County)

Johns Hopkins University Remington Energy Accelerator Labs – $1,250,000 to equip a 12,000 square-foot advanced materials discovery and manufacturing process center. The “R.Labs” New Energy/Tech Infrastructure Hub will focus on innovations in energy transition, including carbon management, energy storage, wind power and grid optimization. (Baltimore City)

Maryland Association of Community Colleges – $935,680 for the creation of the Maryland Cyber Workforce Accelerator with the purchase of eight BCR Cyber Series 3000 cyber ranges to serve 16 community colleges. (Anne Arundel County)

QC82 – $200,000 for construction of a 1,000 square-foot integrated photonics, testing and packaging facility for its unique detectors and quantum optics devices, part of an investment to build room-temperature quantum computers. (Prince George’s County)

Quantum Space – $1,000,000 for the construction of Maryland’s first spacecraft assembly, integration, test, and engineering facility dedicated to satellite constellation manufacturing. (Location to be Determined)

Saft America – $996,120 for the conversion of 4,700 square-feet of office space into a conditioned “dry room” environment specifically designed for lithium-ion cell production with the installation of automated production equipment. (Baltimore County)

The Mill of Black Horse LLC – $1,000,000 for the construction of a 16,000 square-foot fertilizer plant for precision blended fertilizers using climate smart technologies serving over 1,000 farmers in the region. (Harford County)

University of Maryland Advanced Quantum-Centered Experience for Startups and Students (AQCESS) – $118,600 for the implementation of a “shared lab” concept for quantum technology startups – equipment, platforms, and training – at the Quantum Startup Foundry. (Prince George’s County)

“The Build Our Future Program is a bold new way to accelerate growth in the innovative sectors where Maryland is poised to lead and dominate,” said Maryland Department of Commerce Secretary Kevin Anderson. “These grants will support innovation and spur economic growth across Maryland and help make sure we’re competitive in these key industries.”

PGCEDC Celebrates TEDCO Investment in Prince George's County Based Company: OmniSpeech

PGCEDC Celebrates TEDCO Investment in Prince George's County Based Company: OmniSpeech

College Park, Maryland-based AI company receives dual investment from TEDCO’s Funds

Largo, MD - TEDCO, Maryland’s economic engine for technology companies, announced a recent $500,000 investment in OmniSpeech. This investment was made in two parts, with $300,000 coming from TEDCO’s Venture Funds and the remaining $200,000 coming from TEDCO’s Social Impact Funds.

"After decades of research and development, we are excited to expand our reach to improve more apps and devices with AI/ML-powered speech,” said Carol Espy-Wilson, founder and chief technology officer at OmniSpeech. “With TEDCO’s generous investments, we are excited to advance our innovative AI and machine learning technologies.”

OmniSpeech, located in College Park, Md., is dedicated to improving any speech enabled device or application with artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). To-date, their core noise suppression technology is used to eliminate background noise and improve voice intelligibility on apps and devices from leading manufactures.

“OmniSpeech is part of Prince George’s County’s growing tech ecosystem,” said Mayank Kapur, PGCEDC Director of Business Development, I.T. & Cybersecurity. “With the region already making an impact as the Capital of Quantum, this investment from TEDCO will further cement Prince George’s County as an industry leader in technology.”

Leveraging their team’s expertise in speech science, AI, and optimizing ML algorithms for leading DSP platforms, OmniSpeech is expanding its R & D efforts to include improving automatic speech recognition (ASR), deep fake AI voice detection, voice biomarker identification and more. Earlier this year, OmniSpeech was announced as a winner of the Federal Trade Commission’s Voice Cloning Challenge.

“OmniSpeech’s innovative thinking includes promising solutions to supporting the growing needs of today’s voice powered technology and we hope this investment supports their continued growth,” said Katherine Hill Ritchie, senior director of TEDCO’s Venture Funds.

TEDCO’s evergreen Venture Funds are dedicated to funding and growing the next generation of early-stage businesses in Maryland. Learn more at https://www.tedcomd.com/funding/venture-funds.

“TEDCO’s investment in OmniSpeech exemplifies our diverse portfolio of companies with technology-based innovations,” said Jean-Luc Park, senior director of TEDCO’s Social Impact Funds. “As with all of our portfolio, we hope to see the company’s continued growth and development benefit the Maryland’s ecosystem.”

The Social Impact Funds were created to support underrepresented entrepreneurs throughout Maryland. For information about TEDCO’s Social Impact Funds, visit https://www.tedcomd.com/funding/social-impact-funds.

About TEDCO

TEDCO, the Maryland Technology Development Corporation, enhances economic empowerment growth through the fostering of an inclusive entrepreneurial innovation ecosystem. TEDCO identifies, invests in, and helps grow technology and life science-based companies in Maryland. Learn more at www.tedcomd.com.

About OmniSpeech

OmniSpeech is a leading developer of AI/ML-powered libraries that can be embedded to improve the performance of any speech-enabled app or device. Renowned for its small CPU footprint integrations, low latency near real-time processing, and low power consumption, OmniSpeech technology is available in a wide array of hardware and software configurations. OmniSpeech is a graduate of the Venture Accelerator program at the University of Maryland and since its founding, has garnered a number of prestigious technology awards and licensing contracts with Fortune 500 companies. Learn more at http://www.omni-speech.com.

About Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation

PGCEDC’s mission is to cultivate and promote a strong local economy that supports the growth and prosperity of entrepreneurs and businesses, dedicated to strengthening communities through business development and job creation. For more information about Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation’s services to local companies, visit www.pgcedc.com.

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Media Contact

Tammi Thomas, Chief Development & Marketing Officer, TEDCO, tthomas@tedcomd.com

Carmen Burke, Administrative Assistant, OmniSpeech, burke@omnispeech.io

Rhett Butler, Marketing & Communications Manager, PGCEDC, rbutler@co.pg.md.us

M&T Bank and Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation Graduates Latest Spanish-Language 0-100 Business Accelerator Program Cohort

M&T Bank and Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation Graduates Latest Spanish-Language 0-100 Business Accelerator Program Cohort

M&T’s 2nd Spanish Language 0-100 Business Accelerator Program Highlights Spanish Leaders in Diverse Industries

COLLEGE PARK, MD – July 17, 2024 — A women-owned construction company, a government contractor, and a property management company were announced as the winners of M&T Bank’s (NYSE:MTB) 2nd Multicultural Small Business Lab pitch competition in Maryland, in partnership with Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation (PGEDC).

The winners, who were awarded a total of $8,000, were selected following a pitch competition held at the College Park Aviation Museum. The winners were selected by a panel of judges including representatives from M&T and PGEDC, and include:

• Will Avila Watson, Clean Decisions, LLC (First Prize, $4,500)—A government contractor dedicated to providing employment and resources to formerly incarcerated individuals.

• Maria Kery Phipps, Phipps Construction, LLC (Second Prize, $2,500)—A women-owned and environmentally friendly construction company.

• Arianne Desiree Munoz, Lunita’s Properties (Third Prize, $1,000)—A property management company.

“The mission of the Multicultural Small Business Lab is to create a more resilient community and this competition is an example of how M&T shows up to help communities where we live and work,” said Vickie Mejia, Retail Sales Manager, and co-developer of the program in Prince Georges, County, MD. “At M&T, we are committed to the sustainability of our diverse small businesses, and we are excited to see these winners spur economic activity and create generational wealth.”

“The impact of the Business Accelerator Program and Pitch Competition is immeasurable as it transcends traditional business lines into authentic cultural ones,” said Rocio Treminio-Lopez, Latin Business Development Manager of Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation. “This year’s program was specialized, providing more growth while strengthening business opportunities. With the assistance of PGEDC’s Grow Prince George’s umbrella of programs, participants benefited from one-on-one mentoring sessions and much more.”

The Accelerator Program provides Spanish-speaking entrepreneurs the guidance and skills to build strong companies, spur economic growth in Prince George’s County, and help build generational wealth.

“I am grateful to M&T and PGEDC for conducting this competition, as this was such an invaluable experience,” said Will Avila Watson, Owner, Clean Decisions and first prize winner. “I feel energized, and so ready to take my business to the next level.”

The seven-week program, which began on April 25, featured courses on business planning, establishing credit, managing bank accounts, marketing, branding, and licensing. Sessions were collaboratively led by M&T Program Lead Karla Bermudez, Bilingual Sr. Branch Manager, Marcelo Loredo, Bilingual Branch Manager, and Prince George’s County officials. All workshops were held entirely in Spanish.

Participants had to complete an online application, be fluent in Spanish, be based in Prince George’s County, and be in good standing. Qualified applicants were enrolled in the free program on a first-come, first-based basis.

To learn more about M&T Bank’s Accelerator Program, please visit Accelerator Program | M&T Bank (mtb.com), and M&T’s efforts to support small business diversity, visit: M&T Multicultural Banking.

To learn about Grow Prince George’s, visit https://www.pgcedc.com/grow-prince-georges.

About M&T Bank

M&T Bank Corporation is a financial holding company headquartered in Buffalo, New York. M&T's principal banking subsidiary, M&T Bank, provides banking products and services in 12 states across the northeastern U.S. from Maine to Virginia and Washington, D.C. Trust-related services are provided in select markets in the U.S. and abroad by M&T’s Wilmington Trust-affiliated companies and by M&T Bank. For more information about M&T Bank, visit www.mtb.com.

Media Contact:

Mid-Atlantic Region (Maryland, DC, Virginia, Delaware, and Pennsylvania):

Neil Dhillon

(202) 768.1071

ndhillon@mtb.com

About Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation

PGCEDC’s mission is to cultivate and promote a strong local economy that supports the growth and prosperity of entrepreneurs and businesses, dedicated to strengthening communities through business development and job creation. For more information about Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation’s services to local companies, visit www.pgcedc.com.

Media Contact:

Rhett Butler

Marketing & Communications Manager, PGCEDC

(301) 345.5334

rbutler@co.pg.md.us

Grow Prince George's Initiative Celebrates Success with Completion of ARPA-funded Programming

Grow Prince George's Initiative Celebrates Success with Completion of ARPA-funded Programming

Largo, MD – Prince George's County Economic Development Corporation (PGCEDC) proudly announces the successful completion of its Grow Prince George's initiative, marking a significant milestone in fostering economic growth and inclusivity within the county. Funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), this initiative has empowered local businesses through tailored programs designed to propel their growth and competitiveness.

Over the past year and a half, Grow Prince George's has positively impacted over 1050 businesses and facilitated the creation of an estimated 115 jobs across diverse sectors of the country's economy. This initiative has been pivotal in supporting BIPOC and women entrepreneurs, ensuring equitable access to essential skills and growth opportunities.

David Iannucci, President and CEO of PGCEDC, emphasized the initiative's impact: "Grow Prince George's has not only strengthened our local economy but has also created a pathway for businesses to thrive amid evolving challenges. The success stories we've heard from our participants highlight the transformative power of economic development."

Under the Grow Prince George's umbrella, several flagship programs have driven notable outcomes:

AI for Small Business with the R.H. Smith School of UMD: This program provided hands-on training in leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance business operations and customer engagement, impacting 50 businesses with strategies for AI-driven growth.

CertifyPG & Prosper Certification Training Program: Over 80 businesses gained expertise in navigating government contracting, underscoring the importance of procurement in fostering local business growth.

0 to 100 Accelerator Program (Latino Small Business Development Program): In partnership with M&T Bank, this program delivered essential training entirely in Spanish, benefiting 15 businesses and creating an estimated ten new jobs within the Latino community. This initiative aims to build strong companies, spur economic growth in Prince George's County, and help create generational wealth.

Participants have shared their success stories, illustrating the impact of Grow Prince George's.

"I am grateful to M&T and PGEDC for conducting this competition, as this was such an invaluable experience," said Will Avila Watson, Owner of Clean Decisions and first-prize winner. "I feel energized and so ready to take my business to the next level."

As PGCEDC looks toward the future, plans are underway to expand the initiative's reach and offerings. Future cohorts and enhanced partnerships with educational institutions and industry leaders will continue to drive innovation and competitiveness in Prince George's County.

Visit www.PGCEDC.com for more information on how your business can benefit from future programming like Grow Prince George's.

About Prince George's County Economic Development Corporation

PGCEDC's mission is to cultivate and promote a strong local economy that supports the growth and prosperity of entrepreneurs and businesses, dedicated to strengthening communities through business development and job creation. For more information about the services the Economic Development Corporation provides to local companies, visit www.pgcedc.com.

Rhett Butler

Marketing & Communications Manager, PGCEDC

240-427-7926

rbutler@co.pg.md.us

https://pgcedc.com