HAGERSTOWN – The Washington County Department of Business and Economic Development is sharing new opportunities for local entrepreneurs and small business owners following Gov. 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.
The 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.
Developed 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:
- Locate the Opportunity: An interactive map that helps entrepreneurs identify underserved markets, including areas with unmet demand for child care services and fresh food retail.
- Find Government Funding: A searchable database of nearly 250 state and local incentive programs, consolidating information previously scattered across multiple websites.
- Connect 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.
As part of this initiative, $10 million in state funding has been allocated to support small businesses providing essential services:
- $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.
Applications are open through January 30, 2026.
- $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.
Applications open Jan. 20 and close Feb. 20..
Washington County business owners are encouraged to explore available resources and funding opportunities at compass.maryland.gov.
For additional information, they may contact Washington County’s Business and Economic Development Department at 240-313-2280 or [email protected].
