According to a new report, the Senator George C. Edwards Fund has supported upwards of $290 million in economic activity and more than 1,150 new jobs across Western Maryland over the past two years.

The latest economic impact numbers are from the Western Maryland Economic Future Investment Board’s annual report, which was submitted to the Maryland General Assembly at the end of last year.

Established in 2022, the $50 million Senator George C. Edwards Fund is set to provide funding over four years. Projects must fall under two categories – business development and capital infrastructure – and can include housing, road improvements, broadband, and more, with an ultimate goal of creating and retaining jobs in Western Maryland.

“These investments are more than numbers—they represent jobs created, buildings revitalized, and opportunities expanded across the region,” said Jake Shade, executive director of the Western Maryland Economic Future Investment Board. “From revitalizing historic properties to funding workforce training and healthcare initiatives, the projects supported by this Fund are laying the groundwork for a vibrant and competitive Western Maryland.”

The Fund has provided more than $36 million in grants to projects throughout Allegany, Garrett, and Washington counties since launching, including an expansion at Queen City Creamery in Cumberland; upgrades at Garrett Container Systems near Deep Creek Lake; and construction of a new medical school at the Meritus Medical Center in Hagerstown. Grant funding has also been awarded for the redevelopment of the Rosenbaum building in downtown Cumberland, where SPARC Research will soon locate its new satellite space.