Page 16 - Baltimore County 2023 Quality of Life Guide & Business Directory

PROGRAMS & SERVICES
WATERFRONT BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT LOAN PROGRAM Baltimore County offers loans for qualifying waterfront businesses. The funds can be used for exterior improvements, including bulkhead repair, slip renovations, signage, landscaping, facade improvements, etc. Funds are available for the lesser of 90% of the project cost or $75,000. Loan terms are five years with 0% interest.
Explore DEWD’s offerings at www. baltimorecountymd.gov/departments/ economic-development or see
a calendar of upcoming events at www.baltimorecountymd.gov/ MeetingsandEvents/Economic%20 and%20Workforce%20Development.
SWe’re Here TO HELP
tarting and growing a business can For a comprehensive list of available
be daunting — but in Baltimore loan programs and tax credits at both County, we make it easier. The the state and county level, go to www.
Baltimore County Library, Reisterstown Branch / Photo by Coyle Studios
Baltimore County Chamber, the Baltimore County Department of Economic and Workforce Development and our various partners have created a comprehensive suite of services to support you along your journey.
BALTIMORE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMIC AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT (DEWD)
Looking to start a business? DEWD’s Small Business Action Team offers
new and existing businesses
help with technical, financial and marketing strategies. Get in touch at businesshelp@baltimorecountymd. gov. DEWD can also help you obtain a local business license, create a business plan and expand your network of local contacts.
Other forms of assistance provided by DEWD include:
• Site selection services
• Direct, gap and flexible financing
programs
• Programs to support opportunities for revitalization
• Data on growth industries and professions
baltimorecountymd.gov/departments/ economic-development/business/ financing-and-tax-credits. Here is a look at just a few of the options available:
BOOST LOAN FUND
Provides access to capital for targeted businesses, including small, minority-, women- and veteran-owned businesses
in the Baltimore metro area. The fund is capitalized by Maryland casino tax revenue and can provide loans from $50,000 to $250,000.
ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY LOAN FUND
Provides loans to technology-based businesses and businesses acquiring technology equipment. Maximum loan amount is $250,000. Funds may be used to finance the acquisition and improvement of land, buildings and equipment, including new construction or facility expansion.
BUSINESS GROWTH LOANS
Business Growth Loans are direct loans
or loan guarantees for new or expanding industrial or commercial businesses. Maximum loan amount is $250,000. Funds may be used to finance the acquisition and improvement of land, buildings, plants and equipment, including new construction or facility expansion.
BALTIMORE COUNTY PUBLIC
LIBRARY (BCPL)
The BCPL offers multiple helpful resources for entrepreneurs — most notably its Entrepreneur Academy, where you’ll learn from subject matter experts about
the steps involved in starting a successful business, including business strategies, market research, financial recordkeeping and taxes, and how to develop a business plan. Hear from legal, financial and accounting professionals, network with fellow entrepreneurs, and take advantage of extensive library and business resources.
If you just need one-time help, BCPL’s My Librarian program offers free, 60-minute consultations with a small business specialist.
To learn more about BCPL’s services
for entrepreneurs, including access to technology, workspace and external resources you can connect with through the library, go to www.bcpl.info/ services/entrepreneurs.html.
MARYLAND STATE
PROCUREMENT
Are you hoping to win business
from the State? The Office of State Procurement has created a helpful guide with links on how to be alerted of new procurement opportunities or how to gain certification as a small business, minority business enterprise or veteran-owned business enterprise. Find the guide at procurement.maryland.gov/business- community.
14 Quality of Life Guide and Business Directory