The Washington County Department of Business & Economic Development (DBED) is a county agency providing assistance to new and expanding businesses throughout Washington County, Maryland. The Department of Business Development collaborates with a vast network of public, private and nonprofit organizations to address the business and economic development needs of the community, as well as attract new companies to the county. We will be happy to coordinate a “one-stop-shop” collaborative meeting to discuss your needs as you work through the site selection or start-up process. The Department of Business Development understands your time is valuable, so let us make it easy for you to choose Washington County to LIVE, WORK, and PLAY!

The City of Hagerstown’s Department of Community & Economic Development serves as a resource to help start, nurture and grow business within the city limits. The Department of Community & Economic Development is committed to partnering with developers, investors and business owners to navigate the planning and development process. The City offers several incentive options to support economic growth in the community, and staff will provide guidance to determine the best opportunities for your business and development needs. Recognizing time is money, the City fast-tracks projects for approval, provides exceptional service and demonstrates flexibility in a changing environment. Click here for more information about the City of Hagerstown Department of Community & Economic Development or call 301-739-8577, ext. 111.

The Maryland Department of Commerce is here to help. As the state’s primary economic development agency, we stimulate private investment and create jobs by attracting new businesses, encouraging the expansion and retention of existing companies, and providing workforce training and financial assistance to Maryland companies. Commerce also promotes the state’s many commercial advantages and its outstanding quality of life to spur economic development, international investment, trade and tourism. Please visit their website or contact our Western Maryland Representative at (410)767-6300.

CHIEF is Washington County’s partner organization which helps to develop real estate for the purpose of enhancing economic and community development for business and industrial expansion in Washington County. CHIEF was established in 1963 as a not-for-profit economic development organization. Their mission is to assist with the revitalization of downtown Hagerstown in order to provide a better quality of life for all. Please call the CHIEF office for more information at 301-739-2015.

The Chamber is a small business whose products and services help other businesses be more successful. The goal is to help your business increase sales and reduces costs and we have many ways to do just that. First, people want to do business with people they know, and we can introduce you to lots of people, customers and suppliers. Second, we let you know what is going on in the community affecting your business, good and bad.  And third, we advocate on your behalf with local and state government, working to expand your market and reduce the burden of government regulations.  Visit our website or call the Chamber office at 301-739-2015 for more information.

The Greater Hagerstown Committee (GHC), a 501c(3) corporate body, was established in 1987 to bring stakeholders and community leaders together to discuss broad issues of importance in the region. Its membership is composed of CEOs and top officials from corporations and organizations around the community, and its operations are funded solely by member dues. Over the years, GHC has served as a community catalyst — recruiting people, gathering information, identifying resources, and crafting conversation necessary to advance initiatives making our region a better place to live, work and play. GHC works with local economic development partners to connect prospective leadership teams to established corporate leaders in our area. More information can be found here or call 301-733-8811.

Co-located in the Department of Business Development’s office suite, the Small Business Development Center is a partner of choice for start-ups and entrepreneurs. The Maryland Small Business Development Center (MD SBDC) provides confidential business start and growth consulting services at no cost. MD SBDC assists both existing and startups with financial analysis and projections, business planning, pricing and marketing strategies.  For further information, please visit their website or call toll free at 1-888-237-9007, ext. 4.

Volunteer members of SCORE Hagerstown are a group of experienced business persons who want to be your small business counselors for the life of your business. Our services are open to any entrepreneurial spirit with a desire to provide quality services or products and someone who anticipates providing jobs and growth in the community. Willingness to learn and serve others and those with a business idea should contact us. Counselors are available to provide face-to-face business counseling at no cost at your worksite or one of their two conveniently located offices. For more information about SCORE Hagerstown or to schedule an appointment, please visit our website or call 301-766-2043.