Howard County is buzzing with excitement as it celebrates the latest group of entrepreneurial graduates from the HoCo Higher program. This initiative, often referred to as an entrepreneurial “bootcamp,” has reached another milestone with the graduation of its 7th cohort. The event, marked by enthusiasm and applause, showcases the county’s commitment to fostering local business growth and supporting underrepresented entrepreneurs.
Celebrating Entrepreneurship: HoCo Higher’s Latest Graduates
HoCo Higher is a transformative programme designed to equip aspiring business owners with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive. The 8-10 week programme is a free resource for local entrepreneurs, supported by Howard County, M&T Bank, and the Small Business Development Center (SBDC). The graduation ceremony was a testament to the hard work and determination of these new business leaders.
Key Highlights of the Graduation Ceremony
- Graduates’ Achievements: This year’s cohort displayed their refined skills in a competitive setting reminiscent of “Shark Tank,” vying for cash prizes and recognition.
- Top Performers:
- Craig A. McKenzie of Engineered Design Services LLC clinched the top prize of $2,000.
- Nysia Wilhite from Dance Solutions earned second place with a $1,000 prize and charmed the audience to win the Crowd Favorite award.
- Irfan Khan of CrewThrive secured third place with a $750 prize.
The Impact of HoCo Higher on Local Businesses
Howard County Executive Calvin Ball highlighted the significance of the programme: “Congratulations to everyone who took the initiative to learn how to become a better entrepreneur. Not only should you be proud of surviving this ‘bootcamp,’ but you should also be proud of the invaluable information you’ve gained that will undoubtedly help you in your entrepreneurial journey.”
The HoCo Higher programme is more than just a training course; it’s a catalyst for economic growth. By providing education in business planning, digital communication, and financial management, the programme empowers local entrepreneurs to turn their business ideas into successful ventures.
Why HoCo Higher Matters
- Supporting Underrepresented Groups: Since its inception in September 2021, HoCo Higher has assisted over 120 entrepreneurs from historically underrepresented backgrounds.
- Economic Investment: Howard County has invested more than $425,000 into supporting these businesses, highlighting the county’s dedication to economic development.
Partners in Success: M&T Bank and SBDC
M&T Bank plays a crucial role in the HoCo Higher programme. As the leading SBA lender in the area, M&T Bank’s support underscores its commitment to nurturing small businesses. James W. Peterson, Jr., VP of the Multicultural Banking Team and Small Business Ambassador at M&T Bank, stated, “We know that small businesses are the lifeblood of our communities. Accelerators like HoCo Higher are essential for fostering economic growth and building resilient communities.”
The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) also contributes valuable resources and expertise, ensuring that entrepreneurs receive comprehensive support throughout their business journey.
What’s Next for HoCo Higher Graduates?
As these new entrepreneurs step into the business world, they are armed with enhanced skills and a network of support. The HoCo Higher programme not only provides practical knowledge but also instills confidence and resilience in its participants.
Graduates will now use their newly acquired expertise to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship, supported by the foundation laid during their time in the programme.
Conclusion: Howard County’s Commitment to Entrepreneurship
The graduation of the 7th cohort of HoCo Higher is a celebration of Howard County’s ongoing efforts to foster local business development and support underrepresented entrepreneurs. With a track record of success and strong community partnerships, the programme continues to be a vital resource for aspiring business owners.
