February 2015
Business Pulse: Insights on Maryland's economic development
Ben Wu isDeputy Secretary of theMaryland Department of Business and Economic Development.
A few weeks have passed since I joined DBED as Deputy Secretary. It's a great honor to have been asked by Governor Hogan to serve in this very important role on his economic development team. Personally, my appointment is also a DBED homecoming and a chance to engage with old and new friends throughout Maryland. I'm looking forward to working with the Governor, Secretary Mike Gill, the General Assembly, and our many partners as together we transform the state's business climate.
Right after Governor Hogan announced in his recent State of the State address that his top priority would be to make Maryland more competitive our DBED team received a surprise visit from the governor during our "First Monday" all-staff meeting. The governor's visit reinforced to all of us his commitment to create jobs and strengthen our economy. His presence energized us to help drive home the message that Maryland intends to truly be "Open for Business."
We have an important mission ahead and we look to you for input and support. The blue-ribbon Maryland Economic Development and Business Climate Commission, also known as the Augustine Commission, has now released its report to improve Maryland's competitiveness. The report was informed by several months of meetings with the business community and other stakeholders. We all agree with the Augustine Commission: Maryland has not nearly reached its potential in growing businesses and creating jobs. We know though that we have the right combination of assets to achieve successhigh-growth innovation industries, smart entrepreneurial people, and a strategic locationbut we need a new game plan to achieve our full potential. Over the coming weeks and months, we will join with the General Assembly in reviewing the report's recommendations to ensure that we collectively advance Maryland's economic prosperity.
I invite all of you to let us know how we can make it easier for you to do business in Maryland. Check out our website at <em>www.choosemaryland.org</em> or feel free to call us at 1-888-ChooseMD and we will make sure to connect you with the right resources and assistance.
BusinessNews
Home Depot wants to hire 750 in Baltimore this spring– Baltimore Sun
Solar jobs growing rapidly in Maryland – Baltimore Sun
Larry Hogan seeks to end property tax on Maryland small businesses– Washington Times
Hopkins opens second business incubator– Baltimore Sun
BusinessEvents
FMA Industry Day– March 19
ABCs of Starting a Business – March 20
Subscribe to theMaryland Department of Business and Economic Development's mailing list for the monthly Pulse on Maryland's economy and growth industries.