Message from Special Secretary Rhee

Recharge Yourself this Summer

It's easy for entrepreneurs to convince themselves that they cannot step away from the business to do something as frivolous as take a vacation. In reality, vacations are a time to recharge and renew yourself for the many challenges that come with owning a small business. The human brain is not designed to work at full capacity 100% of the time. It needs to rest and recoup in order to avoid burnout. Disconnecting from daily work-life responsibilities is a great way to sharpen strategic thinking, inspire creativity, and enhance performance. You'll also feel better both emotionally and physically. Whether you go near or far, carving out time to take a vacation is like recharging your entrepreneurial batteries, and you deserve it!

Sincerely,

Jimmy Rhee
Special Secretary  

Globally Recognized Community Economist to Keynote Ready, Set, GROW! Workshop

Money is the topic of our Ready, Set, GROW! Access to Capital Forum on June 20. It's a topic few understand as well as community economist and keynote speaker, Michael H. Shuman. Shuman is an attorney, author, and entrepreneur. He has been writing and speaking about community-based economics for more than 30 years. His insights on how money moves within the small business community is powerful. Join us for his presentation along with the opportunity to meet with federal, state and local lending partners at the Governor's Coordinating Offices in Crownsville at 9:30 am on Thursday, June 20. Seating is limited and advance registration is required. 

Ready, Set, GROW! Access to Capital Forum

Governor's Service Awards Adds New Category for Small Businesses

The Governor’s Office on Service and Volunteerism is currently accepting nominations for the 2019 Governor’s Service Awards. In its 36th year, the Governor's Service Awards will recognize Marylanders who have provided significant volunteer contributions to communities around the state during 2018. Nominations for the awards may be submitted in one of 14 categories, including Small Business, which will recognize a business of 50 employees or less that has made a substantial impact in the community by volunteering with local organizations and/or agencies. The awards will be presented at an event in the Fall. The deadline to submit nominations is June 7, 2019. 

Governors Service Award Nominations

Business Lending

Did you know the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development has a division focused on business lending programs? They know that small businesses drive our economy and offer loans and business growth tools to both nonprofit and for-profit companies. Their focus is to improve and revitalize existing commercial districts and town centers through a variety of programs including Neighborhood Business Works, Microenterprise Loans, and the Maryland Capital Access Program. They support lending and financing through traditional lenders and can make the difference between a project launching or not. Contact the lending team directly to learn more. 

DHCD Business Lending Programs