As one of the most diverse states on the East Coast, Maryland continues to encourage the growth of its minority-owned business community through different programs and initiatives.

Included in those resources is the Downtown BOOST Program - or Black Owned and Operated Storefront Tenancy - that recently celebrated its second cohort of business owners . Five small businesses received grants to support new storefronts in downtown Baltimore: Bmore Empowered, From Baltimore with Love, Décorelle, Sacred House, and Smith Co.

In addition to the monetary grant, the businesses will also have access to zoning and permitting, legal, marketing, technical, and accounting support from local partners. With these tools, BOOST  aims to address racial inequalities while supporting long-term Black-owned business success and boosting downtown’s economy.

Another initiative dedicated to supporting small businesses is currently in its sixth successful year – the Launch Pad program focuses specifically on retail store owners at BWI Airport. This year’s selection  includes five winners: Different Regard, Pamper Me Please Travel Spa, Drama Mama Bookshop, Zaaf, and Abrin Beauty. All of the businesses received training, mentoring, and continuous marketing support from the airport’s business partners, ensuring that the state’s guests and travelers are welcomed well.

Maryland’s ongoing dedication and passion in supporting small and minority-owned businesses is one of the state’s key characteristics that secures its growth, success, and position of the second best state for minority entrepreneurs . To learn more about business resources Maryland has to offer, click here .