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Maryland's Booming Economic Landscape

The Maryland Marketing Partnership recently showcased the thriving business ecosystem within the state, with multiple notable achievements and developments reported. As Maryland enters 2025, the momentum of its economic growth is apparent through significant corporate expansions, innovations, and community collaborations. Under the new leadership of Harry Coker Jr., the Acting Secretary for the Department of Commerce, Maryland's commitment to fostering a robust and competitive economy is more evident than ever.

Maryland businesses are making headlines with dynamic strategic plans and initiatives aimed at benefiting both their operations and the community. Cloudforce, a key player based in National Harbor, is leading this innovation spree. Kicking off the year strong, they engaged in the Microsoft AI Tour in New York, tapping into advancements in enterprise AI infrastructure. This aligns with their commitment to community involvement, as they join forces with Bike MS City to Shore 2025 to support the National MS Society.

Moreover, Cloudforce has revealed plans for their first Cloud + AI Meetup slated for March 19 at the Microsoft Garage, providing local tech enthusiasts the opportunity to learn about AI applications on Azure. In addition to these initiatives, Cloudforce welcomed the Prince George's County Tech Council (PGCTC), setting the stage for a new training program that supports local tech professionals. The company’s recent Annual Growth Report highlighted a remarkable 51% increase in team size and the issuance of 128 new staff certifications.

On the other side of the spectrum, Independent Can Company, situated in Belcamp, has made waves in the printing and manufacturing sector, achieving recognition for its high-quality metal packaging. They secured awards for the Best of Category in the Excellence in Quality Awards for their Tinkertoy collectible tin and won gold in the fancy cans category at the Cans of the Year Awards for their Bonne Maman jams gift tin. Such accomplishments underscore Maryland’s caliber in niche manufacturing and appeal in the global market.

Continuing the trend in real estate growth, Peterson Companies has expanded its residential offerings by acquiring several properties, including a luxury high-rise in Bethesda and multifamily communities in Annapolis. Celebrating 60 years of development, Peterson’s strategy emphasizes creating quality living spaces that meet the dynamic needs of the community.

The SECU MD Foundation also announced the opening of applications for its well-regarded 2025 Scholarship Program. This program has a remarkable track record, having awarded over $1.1 million in scholarships across 19 years. For 2025, twelve students will each receive $10,000 to aid in their educational pursuits, focusing on Maryland community college students planning to transfer to the University System of Maryland.

In the energy sector, St. John Properties has set a precedent by installing the largest solar project in its history at Aspen at Milford Town Center. This commitment to sustainability showcases a growing trend among companies to integrate eco-friendly practices into their operational frameworks.

Lastly, TEDCO, the heartbeat of Maryland's thriving technology landscape, has announced several initiatives to support startup companies. Their new Venture Capital Limited Partnership (VCLP) program, alongside the selection of various innovative startups for funding, reflects their ongoing mission to nurture and elevate Maryland's entrepreneurial spirit.

In distinction, United Therapeutics Corporation has been celebrated for its workplace culture, earning spots on several esteemed lists, including Forbes America's Best Companies and Fortune Best Workplaces. Such accolades underscore Maryland as a prime location for both business success and employee satisfaction.

These stories highlight the diverse and robust economic landscape in Maryland, fueled by innovative companies, strategic investments, and a committed workforce, paving the way for continued growth in 2025. With each new initiative and partnership, it's clear that Maryland is dedicated to creating a more equitable and prosperous future for all its residents.