Garrett County, MD Business News

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Connor Norman Graduates From Appalachian Leadership Institute

Garrett County Business Development Specialist Connor Norman has graduated as a member of the Appalachian Regional Commission's Appalachian Leadership Institute Class of 2026. Over the past eight months, Norman joined leaders from across Appalachia in an intensive leadership program focused on economic development, regional collaboration, workforce development, and community growth. Through the program, he gained valuable knowledge, expanded his professional network, and explored innovative strategies to strengthen local economies. Read more.

Photo: Melissa Bolyard, Garrett County Business Development's Agriculture Business Specialist accepts a NourishMD grant award from the MD Department of Housing and Community Development.

Appalachian Food and Farm Alliance Received NourishMD Grant

Congratulations to the Appalachian Farm and Food Alliance! The organization has been awarded a NourishMD Grant to transform the Mountain Fresh Farmers Market pavilion in Oakland into a year-round fresh food hub, expanding access to fresh, local food for Garrett County residents. This investment strengthens our local food system and supports healthier communities. The program is offered by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development's Division of Business Development in partnership with the Maryland Department of Agriculture and the Maryland Department of Health. Read more.

Garrett County Launches Initiative to Map Local Roadside Stands

Do you operate a roadside stand in Garrett County? Garrett County Business Development, in partnership with the Garrett County Extension Office, is creating a FREE interactive Garrett County Roadside Stand Map to help residents and visitors find fresh, local products. Whether you sell fresh produce, flowers, eggs, honey, baked goods, meats, maple syrup, or other locally made products, we'd love to feature your roadside stand! Learn more.

Photo: Schoolhouse Earth is presented with a 40th anniversary proclamation by the Garrett County Commissioners.

Schoolhouse Earth Presented with 40th Anniversary Proclamation

Garrett County Commissioners Paul Edwards and Larry Tichnell recently recognized Schoolhouse Earth with a county proclamation celebrating the business's 40th anniversary and its longstanding contributions to Garrett County's economy and tourism industry. The proclamation was presented during a celebration hosted by the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the Garrett County Department of Business Development. Established in 1986, Schoolhouse Earth continues to be a beloved destination for residents and visitors alike. Photo courtesy of the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce. Read more.

Photo: O.M.G. Relax received milestone recognition.

O.M.G. Relax Receives Garrett County Milestone Recognition

The Garrett County Commissioners recently issued a proclamation recognizing O.M.G. Relax for five years of business through the Garrett County Milestone Recognition Program. Owned by Randy and Christine Anderson, the locally owned wellness business was The Commissioners' proclamation recognized the Andersons' entrepreneurial vision, dedication to exceptional customer service, and ongoing commitment to enhancing the visitor experience and quality of life throughout Garrett County. Read more.

Photo: Ribbon cutting ceremony for Play Out Loud in downtown Oaklad.

Play Out Loud Opens in Downtown Oakland

Garrett County Business Development, the Mayor and Town Council of Oakland, and the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce recently celebrated the grand opening of Play Out Loud, a year-round, indoor space featuring interactive exhibits and engaging play experiences designed to inspire creativity, imagination, and hands-on learning for children. We welcome Play Out Loud to the business community and look forward to the positive impact Play Out Loud will have on families, visitors, and the continued vitality of downtown Oakland. Learn more.

Photo: The Lazy Minnow ribbon cutting in McHenry, MD

Ribbon Cutting Celebrates Launch of the Lazy Minnow

The Garrett County Chamber of Commerce and Garrett County Department of Business Development recently celebrated the grand opening of Lazy Minnow, a new family-owned business serving the Deep Creek Lake area. Located at 23250 Garrett Highway in McHenry, Lazy Minnow offers guided fishing charters, scenic boat rides, and a fully stocked 24/7 bait and tackle shop with live bait, fishing gear, ice, and firewood. We welcome Lazy Minnow to Garrett County's business community and wish them continued success! Learn more.

Photo: Klotz Corn Shack. Photo Credit: Claudia Reynolds

Klotz Corn Shack Celebrates 50 Years in Business

Congratulations to the Klotz family on celebrating 50 years of Klotz Corn Shack. What began in 1976 as a picnic table under an oak tree selling homegrown sweet corn has grown into one of Garrett County's most beloved seasonal destinations. Today, the family-owned business continues to offer its famous sweet corn along with fresh local produce, pumpkins, mums, and locally produced maple syrup. Through generations of hard work, family dedication, and a commitment to serving the community, Klotz Corn Shack has become a true Garrett County tradition. We congratulate the Klotz family on this remarkable milestone and wish them continued success for years to come. Photo credit: Claudia Reynolds. Read more.

Photo: 30th Anniversary commendations presented to the owners of the Deer Park Inn

Historic Deer Park Inn Celebrates Three Decades of Hospitality

The Garrett County Department of Business Development recently joined the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce, community leaders, and elected officials in celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Deer Park Inn. Owned and operated by Pascal and Nadine "Sandy" Fontaine since 1996, the Inn has become a premier destination for exceptional French cuisine and hospitality while preserving the historic Pennington Cottage, a National Register of Historic Places landmark dating to 1889. During the celebration, the Fontaine family was recognized for three decades of business success and their commitment to preserving one of Garrett County's most treasured historic assets. Looking ahead, the Fontaines are pursuing restoration projects that will help ensure the Deer Park Inn continues to welcome visitors and preserve its rich history for generations to come. Read more.

WVU Medicine Garrett Regional Medical Center Ranked #1 For Patient Satisfaction

WVU Medicine Garrett Regional Medical Center (GRMC) has been recognized among the nation’s top hospitals for social responsibility, earning outstanding marks on the 2026 Lown Institute Hospitals Index, including being ranked number one for patient satisfaction in the state of Maryland. Garrett Regional Medical Center also received ‘A’ grades in Health Equity, Patient Satisfaction, Community Benefit, and Avoiding Overuse. The Lown Institute Hospitals Index is the nation's only independent ranking focused on social responsibility in healthcare. The index evaluates hospitals on more than 50 measures, examining how equitably care is delivered, how well hospitals invest in their communities, whether patients receive high-value care that avoids unnecessary services, and overall clinical outcomes. Read more.

Photo: Taylor Crabtree, FNP & Jessica Myers, MSN, NP-C of Headwaters Family Medicine

Headwaters Restoration Therapy Transitions to WVU Headwaters Family Medicine

WVU Medicine Garrett Regional Medical Center is pleased to announce that Headwaters Restoration Therapy will transition to WVU Headwaters Family Medicine on July 1, 2026, and officially join Garrett Regional Medical Center, further expanding access to comprehensive primary care services for residents throughout Garrett County and the surrounding region. Family nurse practitioners Taylor Crabtree, FNP, and Jessica Myers, MSN, NP-C, who jointly owned and operated Headwaters Restoration Therapy, along with their staff, will join WVU Medicine and Garrett Regional Medical Center’s growing network of primary care practices. Read more.

Sprinkles & Sourdough Rising in Downtown Oakland

A passion for baking has grown into a thriving local business for Jen Thomas, owner of Sprinkles & Sourdough. What started as a love for creating homemade sourdough bread quickly became an opportunity to share her handcrafted baked goods with the community. After finding success at the Mountain Fresh Farmers Market, Thomas is preparing to open her storefront at 204 Alder Street in Oakland this August. The shop will feature freshly baked sourdough breads, sweet treats, specialty kitchen items, and custom gift baskets, while continuing to serve customers at the farmers market. Sprinkles & Sourdough is a wonderful example of local entrepreneurship, dedication, and the power of turning a passion into a business. Read more.

Blair's By the Lake: Bringing Fresh Style to Deep Creek Lake

Blair’s By the Lake is quickly becoming a favorite shopping destination in the Deep Creek Lake area. After moving to a new, more visible location, owner Blair Glass has expanded the boutique’s offerings to include quality men’s and women’s apparel, custom suits, formalwear, accessories, and more. With a focus on personalized service and carefully selected brands, the store provides locals and visitors with stylish options for lake days, special events, and everyday wear. Combining great fashion with a welcoming shopping experience, Blair’s By the Lake continues to strengthen its place in the local business community. Read more.

Farming icon with a barn, trees, and fields. Green on a white background.

Take Your Farm Business to the Next Level - For Free!

Farmers and food entrepreneurs are invited to apply for the University of Maryland Extension's free, 8-week Maryland Agribusiness Coaching Level 2 Program. Designed for those launching a new product, expanding into new markets, or seeking financing opportunities, the program helps participants develop a comprehensive business plan with guidance from University of Maryland Extension faculty and feedback from a professional business consultant. The next session begins September 28th. Learn more.

Tri County Council for Western MD Revolving Loan Fund - What to Know

Tri County Council for Western Maryland’s Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) strengthens the economic foundation of the region by empowering businesses that might lack access to the capital they need. By providing adaptable gap financing on reasonable terms, the RLF builds community wealth, creates and retains jobs and fuels a more robust economy. When each repaid loan revolves back into the fund, every dollar invested multiplies its impact, supporting more businesses and creating a stronger Western Maryland for years to come. Learn more.

Town of Oakland Launches New Commercial Facade Improvement Grant

The Town of Oakland is pleased to announce the launch of its FY 2027 Commercial Façade Improvement Grant Program, a locally funded initiative designed to encourage investment in downtown and commercial properties while enhancing the community's appearance and economic vitality. This is a competitive grant. Applications will be evaluated based on project quality, community impact, readiness, and compliance with program guidelines. Application Deadline: August 15, 2026. Learn more.

August 3: MD Manufacturing 4.0 Grant Program: Applications Open

The Maryland Manufacturing 4.0 Grant Program returns this summer with $2 million in funding to help small and mid-sized manufacturers invest in advanced technologies that improve productivity, competitiveness, and operational resilience. Eligible projects include investments in automation, robotics, artificial intelligence, Industrial IoT, cybersecurity, advanced software, additive manufacturing, and other Industry 4.0 solutions. Application Deadline: August 31, 2026. Learn more.

August 20: SBA's Mid-Atlantic Matchmaker Prep Series Begins

Opening doors to federal agency decision-makers is easier when you have an effective capability statement. Join the US Small Business Administration (SBA)’s Baltimore, Delaware & Washington Metro District Offices and the Department of War’s Maryland APEX Accelerator for its upcoming Matchmaking Preparation Series. Participate in any or all sessions to gain special access to Session 4, offering a chance to practice your pitch and get feedback on your capability statement. All sessions are free; but advance registration is required. Learn more.

September 2 - October 28: Legacy Planning for Your Business Series

Business owners are encouraged to plan ahead for the future of their companies by participating in the Legacy Planning for Your Business virtual training series, beginning September 2, 2026. Hosted by the Maryland Small Business Development Center (SBDC), and sponsored by the Tri County Council for Western Maryland, the eight-session program provides expert guidance on succession planning, exit strategies, estate planning, retirement, and other key topics to help ensure a successful business transition. Businesses in Garrett, Allegany, and Washington counties that complete the series may also be eligible for up to $500 in technical assistance funding. Registration for the full series is $79. Learn more.

Job search workshops: magnifying glass on a yellow background

August: Free Online Workshops for Job Seekers

The Maryland Department of Labor, in partnership with the American Job Centers, will host a series of free online workshops throughout August to support job seekers across the state. These workshops are designed to help individuals enhance their employment prospects by building essential skills and gaining practical guidance for today’s job market. Learn more and view the schedule .

August: Free SBDC Webinars for Entrepreneurs and Small Businesses

The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is offering a series of webinars this August aimed at helping entrepreneurs and business owners strengthen their skills and grow their operations. The sessions are designed to provide practical insights, expert guidance, and actionable strategies for businesses at all stages. Interested participants are encouraged to review the August schedule and reserve a spot in advance. Learn more and view the schedule.