Page 14 - Baltimore County 2022 Quality of Life Guide & Business Directory

BWTECH@UMBC
WE WELCOME SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS AND ENTREPRENEURS
Marlayna Demond for UMBC
Starting a new business can be a daunting undertaking — but in Baltimore County, we make it easier.
The Baltimore County Chamber, the Baltimore County Department of Economic and Workforce Development (DEWD)
and our various partners have created a comprehensive suite of services to support you along your journey.
BUSINESS CONSULTATION & NETWORKING
Every new business starts with a business plan. A well-written plan can mean the difference between success and failure,
so it’s crucial to get it right. Need help? The Small Business Resource Center (SBRC) is here for you! For more than 30 years, the SBRC has been a resource for entrepreneurs and small businesses in
the Baltimore area. It has served more
than 6,000 clients and assisted in the startup of more than 700 businesses since it was founded. Get in touch by emailing businesshelp@baltimorecountymd.gov or calling 410-825-6200. The SBRC’s services are free of charge! It also offers help with:
• Feasibility studies
• Demographic studies
• Strategic planning
• Business structuring
• Needs assessments
• Business valuations
• Market analysis, research and planning • Loan package assistance
• Certification process and procurement • Intellectual property
• Funding programs
12 Quality of Life Guide and Business Directory
Another valuable resource is SCORE,
a nonprofit association dedicated
to entrepreneur education and the formation, growth and success of small businesses. Local chapters provide free counseling and low-cost workshops in their communities. Over 11,000 volunteer executives and business owners donate their time and expertise as business counselors. The SCORE Business Learning Center (SBLC) provides aspiring and existing small business owners in-depth online learning paths of specific business topics, such as online marketing, startup basics and more.
Baltimore County’s government works with its business development partners (including the Chamber) to host regular networking events for businesses of all sizes. Go to www.baltimorecountymd. gov/departments/economicdev/ business/starting-growing/ networking.html for a schedule of upcoming events!
WORKFORCE SOLUTIONS
Talent is the most important resource for businesses of any size. DEWD’s Talent Management Team offers a variety of supports to help you find the perfect fit:
• Coordinating recruitment efforts • Pre-screening and assessment of
candidates
• Providing facilities for recruitment
initiatives
• Hosting job fairs and advertising • Collaborating with DEWD’s three
Career Centers, local educational institutions, partner agencies, and business and trade organizations to attract the best candidates
• Providing information about labor market trends, economic and demographic data
• Connecting businesses to special populations such as veterans, socioeconomically disadvantaged individuals, people with disabilities, ex-offenders and at-risk youth
• Accessing employer incentives such as local, state or federal tax incentives
Learn more at www. baltimorecountymd.gov/departments/ economicdev/business/workforce/ recruiting-retention.html.
In addition to great people, small businesses need affordable, flexible workspaces. Baltimore County’s incubators and co-working spaces provide the perfect fit!
BWTECH@UMBC
Marlayna Demond for UMBC
PROGRAMS & SERVICES