Good afternoon!

This is it...the 2026 Howard County Small Business Summit is NEXT WEEK! 🚨

The Howard County Chamber, in partnership with the Howard County Economic Development Authority and the Howard County Executive’s Office, is bringing together entrepreneurs, business owners, and community leaders for one powerful, energizing morning and you still have time to be part of it.

To make sure you do not miss out, we are offering a flash sale: 25% off registration for a limited time. Use code 10SUMMIT at checkout to save $10 on your ticket! If you have been thinking about registering, this is your sign.

This is not just another event. It is a fast-paced, idea-packed morning designed to help you actually move your business forward. Whether you are growing, pivoting, or planning your next big step, you will walk away with real strategies you can use immediately. From building stronger relationships that drive business, to securing funding, protecting your company, sharpening your brand, and planning for long-term success, this summit is built for business owners who are ready to do more, grow faster, and stay ahead of what is next.

And of course, we are kicking things off right with a complimentary breakfast, great coffee, and the chance to connect with fellow business owners and experts who truly understand what it takes to run and grow a business today.

We can't wait to see you there!

Keynote: The Connection Code: Unlocking Stronger Relationships in Business

Kashonna Marrow

Simply Kashonna | SK Leading Forward

Success in business starts with people. In this engaging keynote, Kashonna Marrow will explore how understanding communication styles, personality differences, and human behavior can help you build stronger relationships with clients, colleagues, prospects, and partners.

Learn how to connect more effectively, create trust, and strengthen your influence in every interaction.

Session 1A: Prep and Secure: The Path to Business Funding

Kartik Shah

Pinnacle Financial

Vashti Pyatt

Small Business Administration

April Davis-Hurtt

TEDCO

Darshni Patel

Howard County Economic Development Authority

Moderator

Access to capital can be one of the biggest challenges for growing businesses.

Learn what traditional lenders, government entities, and venture capital firms look for as the panel discusses funding options available in today's marketplace and how to position your business for success when seeking financing.

Session 1B: The Cyber Playbook: Outsmarting Threats with Confidence

Ricky Brooks

Brooks Development

Ron Connelly

DP Solutions

Matt Anderson

World Insurance

Tasha Cornish

BCR Cyber

Moderator

Cyber threats continue to evolve, and small businesses remain a prime target.

This expert panel will discuss practical strategies to protect your business, reduce risk, prepare for cyber incidents, and understand the role cybersecurity and cyber insurance play in safeguarding your operations.

Session 2A: Your Story is the Strategy 

Liz Sanchez Rasking

Looking Glass Strategies

Jared Wells

Looking Glass Strategies

In a crowded marketplace, your story is often what sets you apart. This session will explore how authentic storytelling can help you build a stronger brand, create deeper connections with customers, and communicate your value more effectively. Learn how to uncover the core narrative behind your business and use it as the foundation for your marketing, messaging, and customer relationships.

Session 2B: Next Up! Crafting a Succession Plan That Works

Joshua Campbell

Merrill Lynch

Steve Lewicky

Lewicky, O'Connor, Hunt & Meiser, LLC

Katie Fortwengler

KatzAbosch

Kristy Mumma

Stewart Technologies

Moderator

Every business owner should have a plan for the future. Whether retirement is years away or right around the corner, succession planning is critical to protecting your legacy, employees, customers, and business value.

Hear from legal, financial, and accounting professionals on how to prepare for a successful transition.