February Newsletter

Leadership Washington County Applications Due

Monday, February 16

Take Pride. Take Part. Take the Lead

Leadership Washington County (LWC) takes a select group of individuals from diverse backgrounds through an intense ten-month program.

During the program, participants will strengthen their network of contacts and actively engage in issues around topics like economic development, history, art and culture, education, religion, politics, and social service needs.

*Each year, the incubator funds one members participation in LWC. Applications are due to Maureen by Monday, February 16 and the selected participant will be notified on Friday, February 20. The official LWC application must be submitted to LWC by March 27, 2026.

Leadership Washington County Incubator Application

Welcome to Our Newest Members

ScanDe fortifies your digital infrastructure. Simplifying workflows and securing data.

Owner: Joona Kielek

Technology support built for older adults

Founder and Personal Security & Technology Guide: Ryan Miner

Celebrating Black Owned Businesses in our Community

February is Black History Month, a time to honor and celebrate the achievements, contributions, and entrepreneurial excellence of Black innovators and leaders.

This month, we want to highlight and uplift the Black-owned businesses within our incubator and share their stories, successes, and impact across our social media platforms.

If you are a Black-owned business in the incubator—please reach out to Virginia so we can feature your business throughout the month of

February.

We look forward to celebrating the incredible talent and dedication within our community!

We Can Help!

We’re excited to share that we have received a grant from TEDCO to host a dedicated Entrepreneur‑in‑Residence (EIR) right here in Washington County! This grant allows us to support innovators who are developing technology that can drive our region forward.

If you’re working on—or even just beginning to explore—an idea in any area of technology, we want to hear from you! Examples include:

Software & App Development (mobile apps, SaaS platforms, AI‑powered tools)
Biotechnology & Life Sciences (medical devices, diagnostics, health tech solutions)
Advanced Manufacturing & Engineering Technology
Cybersecurity & Data Protection Solutions
Agricultural Technology (AgTech)
Energy, Sustainability & Climate Tech
Robotics, Automation & Sensors
Virtual Reality / Augmented Reality (VR/AR)
Any emerging or innovation‑driven technology concept

Through this partnership, we can connect you directly with Laurie Brewer, our TEDCO Entrepreneur‑in‑Residence. Laurie brings deep expertise in helping founders refine their ideas, validate markets, build strategies, and access Maryland’s powerful entrepreneurial ecosystem.

If you have a tech idea—big, small, early‑stage, or still on the back of a napkin—reach out to us. We’d love to connect you with Laurie and help you take your next step.

*You do not need to be a member of the incubator

to take advantage of this opportunity!

Download the Incubator App Now!

It can be found on both the AppStore and GooglePlay

The Incubator is leveling up its support with the launch of the HCC Incubator App! This new platform is the digital control center for every member, featuring:

Networking: A directory of mentors and business professionals
Logistics: Easy rent tracking
Growth: A dashboard to monitor member progress and an integrated event calendar.

Even if you had downloaded it before, you will need to again!

Spotlight Your Business

Did you know your membership includes discounted access to our in‑house podcast studio? It’s an easy, professional way to share your story, highlight your expertise, or promote new products and services. Whether you’re launching a show, recording interviews, or creating short audio content for your website and social media, the studio is here to help you amplify your voice and reach new audiences. Book a session and start creating content that puts your business in the spotlight!

Don't know how to use the equipment? No problem!

HCC's Learning Technology Department is here to help.

Learn more about our podcast studio here.