A pioneering public-private partnership is launching its latest effort with a focus on decarbonization and affordability in Maryland.
The Maryland Innovation Lab – a partnership between the Maryland Department of Commerce, L Marks, and the World Trade Center Institute – hosts a 10-week lab program to help companies find and implement innovative solutions. This year’s program sponsors include Pompeian Olive Oil, Capital Logistics, and BGE, who will collaborate with startups to pilot solutions that advance their individual and Maryland’s broader sustainability objectives while also promoting affordability.
Launched in 2023, the Maryland Innovation Lab aims to draw entrepreneurial ventures from around the world to Maryland, cultivate a local innovation ecosystem, bolster regional industries and businesses, and discover and implement cutting-edge solutions from around the world. The successful inaugural cohort focused on driving innovation in the food sector and now moves its focus to decarbonization and energy affordability.
“We are excited to kick off this second cohort, which will bring Maryland companies together with companies from around the globe to help navigate some of the most pressing issues in our world today,” said Maryland Secretary of Commerce Harry Coker, Jr. “There is power in partnership and we are excited to see the great things that come from these targeted collaborations that will help keep Maryland’s economy competitive and drive investment in our communities.”
The program structure is tailored for intensive collaboration and development, starting with a competitive pitch day in Baltimore. Approximately two dozen startups from around the world will pitch their solutions to partnering companies for the chance to join the program. Beginning in September, selected startups will proceed to the 10-week mentorship-driven collaboration program, culminating in a demo day where startups and corporate partners will celebrate their joint innovations.
