July Newsletter

Ever Thought About Starting a Podcast? Now's Your Time!

Our podcast studio is booking up fast — and if launching a podcast has been on your someday list, this is your sign to make it happen. Whether you're looking to build your brand, connect with customers, or share your expertise with the world, we've got the space and equipment to get you started.

$15/hour for members | $30/hour for non-members

Slots are limited, so reach out today to reserve your time.

👉 Access our Rental Request Form Here

Principles of Entrepreneurship Class

Enrolling Now

Thinking about starting a business, or want to strengthen the one you've already got? HCC's Principles of Entrepreneurship class covers the fundamentals you need to turn your idea into a real, sustainable business.

When: September 9 – December 16

Days: Monday & Wednesday, 5:00 – 8:00 PM

Scholarships are available, so don't let cost hold you back from investing in your business.

For more information or to enroll, reach out to Rebecca Powers at rkpowers@hagerstowncc.edu.

👉 Learn more and register here

Welcome to Our Newest Members

Serving fast smash sliders, fries and dips- build for sports fields, concessions, and high-volume game days.

Owner: Quinton Barr

Stories Matter.

Get your one of a kind brand video advertising and share your story with the world.

Owner: Andrew Gehman

Welcome to Our Newest

Industry Advisor

Heather Hughes, PMP, is the founder of Wisteria Marketing Solutions, where she empowers entrepreneurs and lean teams to scale their impact. With more than 25 years of experience in marketing, communications, and event planning, Heather specializes in translating ambitious goals into clear, practical strategies that drive sustainable growth. Her career spans nonprofit, corporate, and agency settings, giving her a unique perspective on how organizations of all sizes can authentically connect with their communities. A recipient of national awards for customer engagement and program development, Heather simplifies complex marketing concepts, helping business owners focus their energy where it makes the greatest impact. Deeply rooted in the Maryland business community through her work with the Washington County Chamber of Commerce, Heather is dedicated to helping local businesses thrive. She is passionate about providing the tools and insights entrepreneurs need to confidently attract their ideal customers, build loyal memberships, and achieve their professional milestones.

Save the Date

New Exclusive Member Benefit:

Independent Business Circle

We’re excited to introduce a new exclusive opportunity for HCC Incubator members through our partnership with The Venture Project—the Incubator Business Circle.

This members-only experience is designed for business owners who are ready to grow with intention, clarity, and support.

This is not your typical networking group. It’s a professionally facilitated, monthly advisory circle where you’ll engage in real conversations, work through challenges, and gain valuable perspective from fellow business owners.

Each session is designed to help you:

Work through real business challenges
Gain insight from experienced peers
Strengthen your decision-making and strategy
Stay accountable to your goals

The Circle meets the third Tuesday of every month in a focused, supportive environment built around thoughtful leadership and sustainable growth—because running a business shouldn’t feel like something you have to figure out alone. Next session is July 21.

RSVP to Makolb@hagerstowncc.edu

Pricing Your Product

Here's What You Need to Know

One of the toughest decisions any business owner faces is figuring out the right price for their product or service. Price too low, and you may be leaving profit on the table — or worse, signaling to customers that your product isn't worth much. Price too high, and you risk scaring away buyers before they ever give you a chance.

Capital One's latest guide breaks down the pricing strategies every small business owner should have in their toolkit, including:

Cost-plus pricing — calculating your production costs and adding a markup to ensure profitability
Competitive pricing — setting your price based on what similar businesses in your market are charging
Value-based pricing — pricing according to what customers believe your product or service is truly worth
Penetration pricing — entering the market with a lower price to attract customers quickly, then adjusting later
Price skimming — launching high and gradually lowering the price as the market evolves

The guide also walks through how to weigh your costs, your competition, and your customers together to land on a strategy that fits your unique business — not a one-size-fits-all formula.

Whether you're setting prices for the first time or reevaluating what you charge, this is a worthwhile read for any entrepreneur looking to build a stronger, more sustainable pricing plan.

👉 Read the full guide here