As head of the League City Regional Chamber of Commerce in Galveston County, TX, Dewan Clayborn gained a strong foundation for collaborating with the business community. Now, after leaving Texas and relocating with his family to Maryland, Clayborn has joined the Central Maryland Chamber of Commerce  as the organization’s first black President & CEO.

While the specific industries and challenges may differ between the two states, Clayborn says the core functions of a chamber remain consistent: building relationships, advocating for business interests, and providing value-added services to members. He also believes his experience with boosting the Texas chamber into the top three percent nationally will help stimulate growth within the Central Maryland Chamber and throughout the region.

We sat down with Dewan Clayborn to learn more about his plans for the chamber and his thoughts on the Mid Atlantic business climate.

What made you decide to explore opportunities in the Mid Atlantic?

Maryland has become a second home to my family and me. My wife works for a consulting company that has a significant presence in the state, with five locations, and their corporate headquarters is based in Washington, D.C. We have strong family ties in the DMV area as well.

The decision to explore opportunities in the Mid Atlantic region was a natural step as we looked to build our own family while staying close to loved ones. When the position at the Central Maryland Chamber of Commerce opened, it felt like a perfect alignment of personal and professional goals.

What are some things you’ve quickly learned to love about the people and places in Maryland?

Maryland has exceeded my expectations in every way. The people here are incredibly welcoming, collaborative, and passionate about their communities. Their deep-rooted sense of pride in the state is inspiring. I've been particularly impressed by the region's rich history, diverse culture, and commitment to innovation. It's a truly dynamic place to live and work.

What were your first impressions of Maryland’s economy and business climate?

Maryland's economy initially struck me as a robust and diversified landscape, significantly influenced by its proximity to Washington, D.C. The state's investment in key sectors like biotechnology, cybersecurity, and aerospace was evident. However, I also recognized the challenges posed by the region's high cost of living and competitive business environment.

Over the past few months, my perspective has deepened. While these initial impressions hold true, I've also come to appreciate the state's strong emphasis on education and workforce development, which positions Maryland well for future economic growth. Additionally, the local business community has shown remarkable resilience and a collaborative spirit in navigating recent economic challenges.

You’re working with several counties throughout the region. Is there a certain area, or a certain industry, that you have gravitated towards most?

Central Maryland's diverse economy offers exciting opportunities. I'm focused on aerospace & aviation, government contracting, women-owned businesses, and technology. These sectors align with the region's strengths and offer substantial growth potential.

You mentioned to the BBJ  that you’re excited to support the next generation with scholarships. Can you elaborate on how local chambers impact their communities?

As mentioned in the BBJ, investing in our next generation is paramount. The Central Maryland Chamber's Education Foundation distinguishes itself by providing over $1 million in scholarships, particularly for STEM, vocational, and first-generation students.

This commitment to education aligns with our broader mission of fostering a thriving community. Our Education Foundation allows the Central Maryland Chamber to drive economic growth, advocate for businesses, and enhance quality of life through initiatives such as workforce development, infrastructure improvement, and community engagement.

What are your goals for the foreseeable future?

My initial priorities for the Central Maryland Chamber are centered around maximizing member value, driving economic growth, and enhancing community impact. By offering unparalleled benefits and exclusive networking opportunities, we can foster a sense of belonging and loyalty amongst the business community.

To stimulate economic growth, I will focus on attracting new businesses, supporting entrepreneurship, and advocating for policies that create a favorable business climate.

Building a stronger community involves active collaboration with local organizations, addressing pressing issues, and improving quality of life for all residents. A data-driven approach, leveraging technology to enhance efficiency and member engagement, will be instrumental in achieving these goals.

Do you have any advice for entrepreneurs and up-and-coming businesses?

To thrive, entrepreneurs must prioritize understanding and meeting customer needs, building strong relationships, and cultivating resilience. Continuous learning, adaptation, and networking are essential for navigating the dynamic business landscape. A dedicated team can be a game-changer.

To accelerate your business's growth and enhance your credibility, consider joining the Central Maryland Chamber. We offer invaluable resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy support to help businesses of all sizes succeed. Let us be your partner in achieving your entrepreneurial goals.