HAGERSTOWN, MD (December 18, 2025) – A new statewide initiative is offering fresh support to small business owners across Maryland, including those in Washington County. Governor Wes Moore has announced a $10 million investment to launch the Maryland Community Business Compass, an online hub designed to simplify access to critical resources for entrepreneurs. Developed by the Maryland State Innovation Team, this digital platform consolidates data on market trends, funding programs, and advisory services into one user-friendly interface. Key features include an interactive map identifying underserved sectors such as child care and fresh food retail, a searchable catalog of nearly 250 state and local financial incentives, and a directory connecting users with expert guidance from planning through licensing. Of the total funding, $8 million is allocated to child care providers via zero-interest loans for facility improvements, with priority given to rural and low-income-serving operations. An additional $2 million supports fresh food enterprises through the NourishMD Grant Program, offering up to $150,000 per business. Applications for child care funding remain open until January 30, 2026, while food retail grants will accept submissions from January 20 to February 20, 2026. Local officials encourage entrepreneurs to explore available tools at compass.maryland.gov or contact Washington County’s development office for assistance.
— news from Washington County, MD
— News Original —
Washington County Department of Business and Economic Development Shares New $10 Million State Investment and Resource Platform for Small Businesses
HAGERSTOWN, MD (December 18, 2025) The Washington County Department of Business and Economic Development is sharing new opportunities for local entrepreneurs and small business owners following Governor Wes Moore’s announcement of a $10 million statewide investment and the launch of the Maryland Community Business Compass—a new online platform designed to help businesses start, grow, and expand. n nThe Maryland Community Business Compass is a data-driven tool that provides small business owners with direct access to market demand insights, government funding opportunities, and business support resources, particularly for businesses serving high-need communities. n nDeveloped by the Maryland State Innovation Team, the platform brings together critical business information in one centralized location, making it easier for small businesses to identify opportunities and access support. Features include: n nLocate the Opportunity: An interactive map that helps entrepreneurs identify underserved markets, including areas with unmet demand for child care services and fresh food retail. n nFind Government Funding: A searchable database of nearly 250 state and local incentive programs, consolidating information previously scattered across multiple websites. n nConnect with Experts: A directory of business support organizations, including economic development agencies and small business development centers, offering assistance from planning through permitting and licensing. n nAs part of this initiative, $10 million in state funding has been allocated to support small businesses providing essential services: n n$8 million for child care businesses through the Child Care Capital Support Revolving Loan Fund, offering zero-interest loans for facility acquisition, expansion, renovation, and new construction. Priority is given to businesses located in underserved or rural areas and those serving low-income families. n nApplications are open through January 30, 2026. n n$2 million for fresh food businesses through the NourishMD Grant Program, administered by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development. Eligible businesses—including grocery stores, corner stores, farm stands, co-ops, farmers’ markets, and certain delivery retailers—may receive up to $150,000 to open, stabilize, or expand operations in communities with limited access to fresh food. n nApplications open January 20, 2026, and close February 20, 2026. n nWashington County business owners are encouraged to explore available resources and funding opportunities at compass.maryland.gov. n nFor additional information, please contact Washington County’s Business and Economic Development Department at 240-313-2280 or [email protected]. n n###