With more than three decades of experience, Tom Sadowski has contributed to numerous economic development projects throughout Maryland—supporting thousands of jobs and billions of dollars in capital expenditures. In this C-Suite Insights, we discuss Tom’s journey at the Maryland Economic Development Corporation and what he sees for the future of Maryland’s business community.
Please tell us a little bit about yourself and your role.
I’ve spent over 35 years in economic development, and as MEDCO’s Executive Director, I get to turn big ideas into real projects that strengthen Maryland communities. Throughout my career, I’ve overseen more than $10 billion in projects that created over 50,000 jobs across all industries, from aerospace and AI, to manufacturing and cybersecurity.
What I love most is bringing together public and private partners to tackle challenges like talent development and tech commercialization. As a Maryland native and UMBC graduate, I take great pride in seeing our state’s economy thrive through strategic investment and innovation.
Can you explain MEDCO’s role in expanding opportunity and investment across Maryland?
MEDCO is a solutions provider. We like to think of ourselves as the bridge between great ideas and outcomes that foster quality job creation and bring sustained economic growth. We listen to the needs and objectives of our partners. Then we utilize tested best practices to structure transactions and financing to deliver projects that transform communities, improve critical infrastructure, enhance education and research activities, support federal installations, or improve the environment. Meaningful economic development requires more than just capital—it demands strategic partnership, vision and the ability to see potential where others might see challenges. That’s what we do best.
Reflecting on your time as the Executive Director of MEDCO, can you describe some of the most exciting or impactful projects you’ve seen come to fruition?
The Southfield Sports Complex in Elkton is one I’m particularly excited to see come to fruition, because it demonstrates how MEDCO’s vast capabilities can be utilized to do different things—to include recreational facilities for youth sporting events and tournaments. This project is part of a $800 million mixed-use development project that is poised to make Elkton a regional sports destination–one that’s estimated to generate $16.5 million in economic impact within five years. The ripple effects, from new home development, retail amenities, hospitality services, increased tourism and year-round recreational opportunities, show how one well planned project can reshape a community’s economic trajectory.
What makes you most excited for Maryland’s future?
What gets me most excited about Maryland’s future is seeing how our portfolio of projects creates a ripple effect across communities. The breadth of our impact is remarkable—we’re accelerating university expansions, technology and innovation advancements, transit-oriented development, business investment and entrepreneurship, with each project strengthening Maryland’s economic foundation. Every project and partnership we forge boosts Maryland’s ability to compete and thrive.
Last year, Governor Moore issued an Executive Order to establish the Maryland Business Ready Sites program, which was recently launched. Can you describe how that program will help Maryland be more competitive for business?
Governor Moore recognizes that we must attract and help facilitate business investment in Maryland. The Maryland Business Ready Sites Program helps eliminate some of the uncertainty and speeds up the process associated with these decisions. This makes Maryland a more attractive place for companies to locate, expand and create job opportunities. When companies are looking to expand or relocate, they’re not just shopping for real estate; they’re shopping for speed, clarity and certainty. This program offers those qualities. Maryland, and its local jurisdictions, become a partner in the investment decision –assuring the site is ready to go to accommodate the new or expanding business requirements.
Consider it from a company’s perspective: if Maryland says, “we can get that done today,” while competing states take 18 months just to get organized, that’s a game-changing advantage for Maryland.
Everyone knows about Maryland crabs…When it comes to what Maryland offers for business (or life), what would you say is the state’s best-kept secret?
Maryland has great, historic communities and culturally rich towns. From Baltimore, Annapolis and Ellicott City, to Frederick and Cumberland, St. Michaels and Cambridge. Maryland’s maritime industry and agricultural resources are globally renowned as well. Maryland is a diverse, culturally rich international gateway.
What is your favorite activity to do/place to visit in Maryland with your family or friends?
Our family is active in 4-H and our kids love showing cattle at the Maryland State Fair (see photo above!). We also love the Ravens!
