Maryland's premier tech and innovation funding agency. Offers multiple programs from seed-stage grants to larger research and development funds. Particularly strong for life sciences, biotech, and tech startups.

Provides loan guarantees, equity investments, and surety bond guarantees to Maryland small businesses, with priority given to minority business enterprises (MBEs) and businesses in underserved communities.

State-funded workforce training grants for businesses in high-demand sectors including healthcare, technology, construction, and manufacturing. Offsets costs of hiring and training new employees.

Matching grants to support research chairs at Maryland higher education institutions that partner with private businesses. Primarily for tech companies seeking research collaboration with MD universities.

Administered by TEDCO, this fund supports basic research, translational research, and clinical research related to stem cell science in Maryland — primarily for biotech and life science companies and institutions.

BDC is Baltimore City's economic development agency. Provides technical assistance, loan programs, facade improvement grants (for commercial corridors), and workforce development resources for businesses operating in Baltimore City.

Baltimore-based foundation providing below-market-rate loans and investments to nonprofits and for-profit enterprises that serve Baltimore's low-income communities. Particularly relevant for mission-driven businesses and social enterprises.

A Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) providing small business loans and technical assistance to underserved entrepreneurs and small businesses in the Baltimore metro area who may not qualify for traditional bank financing.

Baltimore-based accelerator and impact investment fund for conscious capitalism businesses — companies that generate profit while creating positive social and environmental impact. Provides funding, mentorship, and investor access.

The SBA's primary loan program — most flexible and widely used. Can be used for working capital, equipment, real estate, business acquisition, or refinancing. Available through participating Maryland banks and credit unions.

Small loans up to $50,000 for very early-stage or small businesses that need working capital or equipment but don't yet qualify for bank financing. In Maryland, available through local nonprofit intermediary lenders.

Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer programs — non-dilutive federal grants for R&D-focused companies. Maryland businesses have high success rates due to proximity to NIH, DoD, NASA, and DARPA.

Mission-based loans delivered through SBA-approved Community Advantage lenders for businesses in underserved markets. Designed for businesses that may not meet conventional bank requirements.

One of the most active angel investor networks in the Mid-Atlantic region. Focuses on early-stage technology, life sciences, and innovative business models. Members invest individually or as a group.

Maryland-based venture capital firm focused on education and workforce development technology companies. Manages multiple funds investing in early-growth-stage companies with scalable, mission-aligned solutions.

Washington DC / Baltimore region angel fund investing in early-stage technology, life sciences, and consumer companies. Strong network of experienced investors who also provide strategic mentorship.

Certify your business as a Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) with the State of Maryland to access set-aside procurement contracts, priority access to several loan programs, and targeted grant opportunities. Opens doors to billions in state contracting.

Free mentoring, workshops, loan-readiness programs, and business plan support for women-owned businesses in Maryland. Connects entrepreneurs to local lenders, investors, and business networks.

Provides access to capital resources, grant connections, and technical assistance for Black-owned businesses in Baltimore. Also provides networking, mentoring, and advocacy for minority entrepreneurs.

When active, this program provides relief grants to Maryland small businesses adversely impacted by economic disruptions. Administered by Lendistry on behalf of Maryland. Monitor state announcements for new rounds.