HAGERSTOWN, Md. – “Dream big. Start small. But most of all, start.” That guiding philosophy embodies the mission behind Hagerstown Community College’s David W. Fletcher Incubator + Labs, a space designed to spark entrepreneurship and support small businesses as they grow in Washington County.
The incubator serves entrepreneurs, small business owners, researchers, catering chefs and independent contractors. Its purpose is simple but far-reaching — to help emerging businesses learn, leverage and launch into the local economy.
Within the modern facility, entrepreneurs can access private office suites, wet labs, virtual offices, dedicated desks and a fully equipped commercial kitchen. Businesses can combine workspace options, taking advantage of flexible layouts and shared resources.
A key segment of the operation, the Culinary Incubator, offers hourly use of the commercial kitchen, along with mentorship and business development support. It provides a professional setting for catering chefs, mobile food vendors and producers of packaged food or beverage goods.
“The Culinary Incubator allows local food entrepreneurs to move from concept to market in a sustainable way,” said Maureen Kolb, director of the David W. Fletcher Incubator + Labs.
Kolb, who has led the incubator since June 2024, focuses on building partnerships, developing innovative programs and aligning incubator services with community needs. She oversees strategic planning and operations, helping ensure that each business receives the guidance and tools it needs to thrive.
By providing resources, professional mentorship and an environment built around collaboration, the David W. Fletcher Incubator + Labs continues to play a vital role in cultivating entrepreneurship and driving economic development in the region.
