Let’s be honest: economic development, as a term, sounds pretty technical (and often needs explanation). But strip away the jargon, and you know what economic development really is? It’s the art of creating places where people belong.
Economic development is the small business owner who takes a chance on Main Street when everyone else says in-person retail is “over.” It’s the small business development center superstar who links job seekers with opportunities they didn’t know existed and helps to turn them into entrepreneurs. It’s the tourism dynamo creating experiences that make visitors say, “I can see myself living here.” And it’s the economic development staffers who champion programs that help businesses thrive.
This week, Maryland is putting these unsung heroes in the spotlight during Economic Development Week, a statewide celebration designed to increase understanding of economic development’s contribution to business climate, job creation, and overall quality of life.
Small Gestures, Big Heart
What strikes me about this year’s celebration is the breadth of approaches across our state (because: wow). Some communities are going big with signature events, while others are keeping it simple with social media campaigns and heartfelt business visits. Both approaches matter equally, because it’s not about the size of your event; it’s about the sincerity of your recognition.
Here’s a taste of what’s happening across Maryland this week:
For the Innovators and Networkers: TEDCO hosts the 11th Entrepreneur Expo on October 21, bringing together entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators for a full day of connection and learning. Meanwhile, organizations across the state, from St. Mary’s to Howard County, are hosting evening networking mixers, breakfast roundtables, and business after-hours events that create the kind of casual connections where lasting partnerships are born.
For the Lifelong Learners: The Maryland Small Business Development Center’s workshop schedule is bursting with free, fantastic content. Whether you want to elevate your knowledge of SEO or minimize risk and maximize your empire, their offerings are perfect for newbies, seasoned professionals, and everyone in between. Keeping women entrepreneurs front of mind, the Maryland Women’s Business Center’s live, virtual trainings are dynamic and designed to open doors. From Canva Lunch and Learns in Garrett County to the Age-Friendly Ecosystem Summit in Hyattsville, these offerings democratize the learning process and engage everyone in the conversation!
For the Connectors: There’s something so powerful about showing up at someone’s door and saying, “We see you. We appreciate you. Thank you for being here.” That’s why many municipalities are taking their appreciation directly to the businesses themselves. Anne Arundel Economic Development Corporation, Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation, Rockville Economic Development, Worcester County Economic Development, and Harford County Economic Development teams are visiting businesses throughout the county to troubleshoot challenges and say “thank you” for investing in their communities.
For the Party People: Celebrations remind us that economic development is fundamentally about community and making friends! St. Mary’s County is going big all week long, bringing people together around the four pillars of economic development—people, organizations, knowledge, and resources—through a series of events including a Young Professionals Meet-up, an AeroPark Business Alliance meeting, and even a Blue Catfish Dinner! Not to be outdone, the Salisbury County Chamber of Commerce will cue the confetti cannons for the people and partners who advocate passionately for their communities at the SACC Annual Awards Luncheon.
Can’t Host an Event? You Can Still Show Up!
Here’s what I want you to hear: you don’t need a big budget or a fancy venue to participate in Economic Development Week. There are simple ways to share the love:
Share Your Story on Social Media: Economic development touches everything from parks and recreation to Main Street renewal projects. Post about how economic development shapes your community. Use the hashtag #EconDevWeek and tag MEDA so they can amplify your message.
Try something like: “Happy #EconDevWeek! This week, we’re celebrating the businesses, entrepreneurs, and economic developers who make [your town] a great place to live and work. From [specific local project] to [another achievement], we’re proud of our community’s growth!”
Write a Blog Post: You’re reading this blog right now, which means you already know the power of storytelling. Write about your community’s economic development successes, profile a local business, or explain the resources your organization provides. Once published, share it across your social channels.
Issue a Proclamation: Even if you’re not hosting a physical event, a proclamation from your county commissioners or town council sends a powerful message. MEDA’s toolkit includes a proclamation template that’s ready to customize. Counties like Kent, St. Mary’s, Charles, Harford, and Worcester have already issued proclamations, and you can, too!
Send Out a Press Release: Use MEDA’s press release template to announce your participation in Economic Development Week. It’s already structured professionally; you just need to fill in your details and send it to the local media. This is your chance to get coverage for the good work happening in your community.
Support Other Organizations: Can’t create your own event? Show up for someone else’s! Check out the full calendar on the MEDA website and attend an event in your area. Sometimes the best way to celebrate is to be present and show your support for aspiring entrepreneurs, existing businesses, and colleagues in every region.
Seize the Moment
So here’s my challenge: Do something this week. It doesn’t have to be big. It doesn’t have to be perfect. But do something to acknowledge the people in your community who are working to make it better. Because when communities show up for their people, that’s when the real magic happens.
After you attend or host this week, let me know what inspired you the most. Drop me a line and keep that enthusiasm and awareness strong all year long!
Find all the resources at: medamd.com
Follow along on social media: #EconDevWeek
