Pilot program created to enable promising, diverse, and underrepresented women business leaders a more equitable future

COLUMBIA, Md. (April 6, 2022)—TEDCO, Maryland’s economic engine for technology companies, announced today the launch of the Open Institute for Black Women Entrepreneur Excellence in collaboration with the Howard County Government. In an alliance with Maryland’s four Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), TEDCO and Howard County are creating a community of entrepreneurs to support each other and provide a best-in-class entrepreneur leadership development program focused on building critical skills that foster resilience.

“This pilot program is setting the stage for us to implement this initiative throughout the rest of the state,” said Linda Singh, executive director for TEDCO’s Women Entrepreneur Leadership. “We look forward to seeing the growth of these entrepreneurs and the future successes for a one-of-a-kind program focused on mitigating challenges Black women entrepreneurs face.”

The pilot program kicks off in Howard County at the Maryland Innovation Center (MIC), and will bring together 25 entrepreneurial leaders in a cohort to develop a network of peer advisors and a community that seeks collaboration. The HBCUs will determine the needs of these entrepreneurs at the intersection of research, tech transfer and education. Maryland’s HBCUs include Bowie State University, Coppin State University, Morgan State University, and the University of Maryland Eastern Shore.

“Now is a perfect time to invest in the thinkers, innovators, and changemakers who will drive our community forward,” said Howard County Executive Calvin Ball. “Howard County’s small and emerging businesses are vital to our economy, and we’re committed to providing quality resources and support to women entrepreneurs – especially those that are often overlooked – so they can succeed.”

To be eligible for the cohort, applicants must be a founder, co-founder, or CEO whose company is at a minimum of pre-seed to growth stage and a maximum of pre-series A. The application deadline is May 2, 2022 and is limited to 25 participants.

“TEDCO understands the need to ensure all Marylanders, especially women, given that the state has the highest rate per capita of women-owned businesses, are provided the proper opportunities and exposure to realize their dreams,” said Troy LeMaile-Stovall, TEDCO CEO. “The Howard County pilot showcases our commitment to ensure our dreams become reality and access to wealth inclusion and expansion opportunities are realized.”

For more information on requirements, how to apply and to view the request for applications, visit the website at https://www.tedcomd.com/women-programs.