For Quantum World Congress, first year in Maryland marks jump forward

Prince George’s County is preparing to welcome the Quantum World Congress to College Park for the first time, bringing thousands of industry leaders, researchers, companies and innovators to a community that is increasingly becoming a center of the global quantum economy.

As reported by Mark R. Smith of The Business Monthly, the three-day Quantum World Congress begins September 23 at The Hotel at the University of Maryland after previously being held in Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C. Organizers expect the College Park event to be the best-attended Congress to date, with attendance running approximately 50% ahead of last year’s event, which drew just under 2,000 attendees. The exhibition floor, featuring approximately 50 exhibitors, is also sold out.

The move to Prince George’s County places the conference directly within an ecosystem that has played a significant role in quantum technology’s development. The University of Maryland, federal research institutions and a growing concentration of private-sector companies have helped establish the College Park area as a hub for research, commercialization and entrepreneurship.

That ecosystem includes College Park-based IonQ, as well as Microsoft, which has established a quantum research and development center in the Discovery District. The Business Monthly also highlights the Quantum Startup Foundry as part of the infrastructure available to smaller companies and startups seeking to establish and grow their operations in the area.

For Prince George’s County, hosting the Congress creates an opportunity that extends beyond the event itself. Companies and attendees from more than two dozen countries are expected to participate, giving the County an international platform to showcase its research capabilities, workforce, institutions and business environment to organizations actively looking for connections and opportunities within the quantum industry.

That visibility can translate into longer-term economic opportunities. As quantum companies move from research toward commercialization, proximity to universities, federal agencies, laboratories, talent and other technology companies becomes increasingly valuable. Prince George’s County brings those assets together within a growing innovation corridor.

The Congress also creates immediate opportunities for the local economy as thousands of attendees travel to College Park, supporting hotels, restaurants, transportation providers and other businesses while engaging with the County’s broader innovation community.

The bigger opportunity, however, is positioning Prince George’s County as a place where quantum companies can remain after the conference ends. With established industry players, startups, research institutions and additional companies reportedly in the pipeline for the Discovery District, the County has an opportunity to turn increased global attention into business attraction, investment and job creation.

Read the original reporting: The Business Monthly — “For Quantum World Congress, first year in Maryland marks jump forward”

PGC: Largo Station Project Moves Forward After Multi-Year Pause (269 Units)

A long-planned development near the Downtown Largo Metro station is moving forward again, signaling renewed investment around one of Prince George’s County’s key transit-oriented development areas.

As reported by Three | E 60 News, Gateway Merchant Banking is advancing plans for a six-story development featuring 269 apartments and approximately 2,000 square feet of ground-floor commercial space. The roughly 3.7-acre project is planned near Largo Drive West and Harry S. Truman Drive along Metro’s Blue Line.

The project was initially submitted in 2022 but was placed on hold amid rising construction costs and challenging financing conditions. After the original development approval expired in 2025, Gateway returned to the entitlement process, and the Prince George’s County Planning Board approved the project again in June 2026. The developer is now targeting a groundbreaking within six months, according to Three | E 60 News.

From an economic development perspective, the project’s return is significant because residential growth near transit can help create the customer density necessary to support restaurants, retailers, professional services and other neighborhood businesses.

Adding hundreds of households within walking distance of Metro also strengthens the broader vision for Downtown Largo as a mixed-use, transit-connected economic center. New residents can translate into increased daily foot traffic and consumer spending, while ground-floor commercial space creates additional opportunities for businesses to become part of the area’s growth.

The project's revival also provides a useful indicator of changing development conditions. Its earlier pause reflected pressures affecting projects throughout the region, including elevated construction costs and financing challenges. Moving forward again suggests that developers continue to see long-term value in Prince George’s County and in transit-oriented locations such as Downtown Largo.

For existing and prospective County businesses, development activity around Downtown Largo is worth watching. As residential density increases, so can demand for goods, services and amenities—creating opportunities for entrepreneurs and established companies to position themselves alongside the community's continued growth.

Read the original reporting: Three | E 60 News — “PGC: Largo Station Project Moves Forward After Multi-Year Pause (269 Units)”

The prince of the US Open is from Prince George’s County

Prince George’s County continues to demonstrate that its greatest assets include the people and institutions that develop world-class talent.

Frances Tiafoe’s latest run at the U.S. Open has once again put an international spotlight on a story that began in Prince George’s County. As reported by Hayes Gardner of The Baltimore Banner, the Hyattsville native grew up around the Junior Tennis Champions Center in College Park, where his father worked after helping construct the facility. Tiafoe has maintained his connection to the center even as his professional career has taken him to the highest levels of international tennis.

That connection carries an important economic development message for Prince George’s County. Sports facilities and youth development organizations are more than recreational amenities. They can become talent-development infrastructure—places where access, mentorship, training and opportunity intersect.

Tiafoe’s global visibility also contributes to the County’s brand. Every national broadcast, profile and major tournament that connects his success to Hyattsville and College Park introduces audiences to Prince George’s County through a story of talent, perseverance and opportunity.

For County businesses and institutions, stories like Tiafoe’s reinforce the value of investing in ecosystems that develop people locally. Quality facilities, youth programs, educational institutions, businesses and community partnerships can have impacts extending far beyond their immediate neighborhoods.

The long-term opportunity is larger than sports. Prince George’s County’s ability to cultivate talent in athletics, technology, entrepreneurship, arts and other industries strengthens its reputation as a place where people can begin, build and ultimately compete on a national or global stage.

Read the original reporting: The Baltimore Banner — “The prince of the US Open is from Prince George’s County”

Native Prince Georgian Promotes Pursuing Passions With Afro Plus Fest

Prince George’s County’s growing role as a destination for culture, entertainment and entrepreneurship was on full display with Afro Plus Fest, a three-day celebration at Northwest Stadium that brought together music, culture, local vendors and members of the African diaspora.

As reported by Micha Green of The Washington Informer, Afro Plus Fest founder and Prince George’s County native Michael “Legendary Mike” Awasonya brought the festival to the County after hosting a one-day event at RFK Stadium in 2025. Awasonya described Prince George’s County as home to one of the nation’s most vibrant African diaspora communities and emphasized the importance of creating opportunities for local vendors, artists and creators as the festival grew.

For Prince George’s County, large-scale cultural events represent more than entertainment. They can serve as economic development engines by bringing visitors into the County, creating opportunities for local entrepreneurs and vendors, increasing visibility for the region and demonstrating the capacity of County venues to host major experiences.

The festival also illustrates the economic potential of the County’s diversity. Prince George’s is home to entrepreneurs, creatives and communities with connections across the globe. Events that turn those cultural assets into businesses, experiences and visitor activity can help strengthen the County’s broader creative economy while providing platforms for homegrown entrepreneurs.

County Executive Aisha Braveboy told The Washington Informer that supporting the festival also sends a message that Prince George’s County welcomes new ideas and encourages young Prince Georgians to pursue their entrepreneurial and creative ambitions.

For the business community, that is an important takeaway: locally generated ideas can grow into regional attractions capable of creating opportunities across multiple sectors. Supporting that pipeline—from entrepreneur to enterprise to major destination event—can help keep more economic activity, talent and opportunity rooted in Prince George’s County.

Read the original reporting: The Washington Informer — “Native Prince Georgian Promotes Pursuing Passions With Afro Plus Fest”

Prince George’s Places A Major Bet On The Quantum Future

Microsoft, IonQ, And The University of Maryland Are Helping Transform College Park Into A Global Center For A Technology That Could Reshape Business, Medicine, Education, And National Security

Although the countdown began long before the upcoming September 23–25 Quantum World Congress comes to the county, that fact won’t make the new Capital of Quantum any less awe-inspiring for the hundreds of world economic planners, scientists and visionaries who are expected to be here.

Starting with innovative work at the University of Maryland some 30 years ago and then successfully transitioning into a commercial hub, the county and state are now fully invested in the potential power of quantum computing to be a game changer not only for the local economy but for health, education and other industries that it will touch.

But what does that mean? What does quantum computing mean, for that matter?

Quantum Computing is a computer’s computer, working faster than regular computers and providing optimal solutions.

“What quantum does is give you multiple possibilities [to lead to a better outcome],” says Sam Braden IV, the Information & Technology Officer at the Prince George’s Economic Development Corporation. PGCEDC is a partner in the Quantum World Congress. “It will do what takes a regular computer weeks to do.”

Imagine this working on cancer cells or tackling accounting issues for a massive budget, and quantum computing’s speed, greater accuracy, and multiple potential solutions to choose from become a very compelling industry to embrace.

A Revolution at the Atomic Scale

The next great technology revolution may be taking shape inside laboratories in Prince George’s County—at temperatures colder than deep space and on a scale far smaller than the human eye can see.

Quantum computing remains unfamiliar to much of the public, but Maryland leaders are treating it as a serious economic-development opportunity. With the University of Maryland, College Park at its center, the county has assembled a rare concentration of scientists, research institutes, federal partners, startup companies and technology giants. It is becoming what state leaders increasingly call the “Capital of Quantum.”

Traditional computers process information in bits, represented as either a zero or a one. Quantum computers use quantum bits, or qubits, which can exploit unusual properties of matter—particularly superposition and entanglement—to represent and analyze information differently. The goal is not to replace laptops or conventional supercomputers. It is to solve certain extraordinarily complicated problems that can overwhelm even today’s fastest machines.

Those problems could include modeling molecules for new medicines, designing advanced materials and batteries, optimizing transportation networks, strengthening national security, and confronting encryption systems that currently protect financial and personal information.

Read the full article by Raoul Dennis for PG Suite Magazine

Steve Proctor: Built by Community, Driven to Give Back

Steve Proctor’s journey from a young student entrusted with his elementary school store to president and CEO of G.S. Proctor and Associates demonstrates how community investment can shape the next generation of business leaders. In a contributed article published by the Washington Business Journal, Junior Achievement of Greater Washington highlighted Proctor’s lifelong connection to Prince George’s County and his belief that professional success carries a responsibility to create opportunities for others.

That commitment is reflected in Proctor’s business and development work throughout the County. One significant example is Brandywine Crossing, where his involvement grew from representing the developer to receiving an equity stake in the project. The development brought new retail options, employment opportunities and tax revenue to an underserved area of Prince George’s County—illustrating how inclusive partnerships can expand local ownership while generating broader economic benefits.

Now recognized as a Junior Achievement Washington Business Hall of Fame Laureate, Proctor continues investing in the County’s future through his service on Junior Achievement of Greater Washington’s board and his sponsorship of Junior Achievement Finance Park in Prince George’s County. The program helps students develop practical skills in entrepreneurship, financial literacy and leadership—capabilities that will become increasingly important as the region works to diversify its economy and reduce its reliance on federal employment.

Proctor’s career offers a powerful model for community-centered economic development. When established leaders mentor young people, support emerging entrepreneurs and ensure local stakeholders have a place in major developments, individual success becomes a foundation for shared prosperity. For Prince George’s County, cultivating that cycle can help build a stronger pipeline of entrepreneurs, business owners and civic leaders prepared to reinvest in the communities that supported them.

Read the original article from the Washington Business Journal.

Gov. Wes Moore Launches AI Tool to Provide Business Insight into Maryland Communities

Maryland entrepreneurs, developers and community organizations now have access to an expanded, AI-powered platform designed to make business and development decisions easier. As reported by The Diamondback, Governor Wes Moore recently announced the relaunch of the Maryland Community Business Compass as the Maryland Community Compass, a free digital resource offering business, neighborhood, property and funding insights.

The platform allows users to explore economic trends, evaluate individual properties, review permitted land uses, identify environmental considerations and search more than 2,600 public and private funding programs. Powered by Anthropic’s Claude technology, the tool brings together information previously spread across numerous zoning, property, environmental and funding databases.

For Prince George’s County businesses, the Maryland Community Compass could reduce the time and expense involved in researching potential locations, understanding neighborhood demand and identifying grants, loans, tax credits and other financial resources. Local entrepreneurs may use the platform to compare communities, evaluate expansion opportunities and make more informed decisions before investing in a property or launching a new venture.

The platform also creates opportunities for community developers and nonprofit organizations working to bring affordable housing, retail, childcare, fresh-food businesses and community spaces to underserved areas. By making sophisticated market and development data more widely accessible, the Maryland Community Compass can help Prince George’s County stakeholders move promising projects forward and direct investment toward the communities where it can create the greatest economic impact.

Read the original story from The Diamondback.

Prince George’s County to Host Permit Palooza Event in Largo

Prince George’s County is helping residents, property owners and aspiring entrepreneurs better understand the permitting process through its upcoming Permit Palooza in Largo. As reported by Kendra Mann of 7News/WJLA, the County’s Department of Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement will host the event on Saturday, September 12, from 10 a.m. to noon at DPIE Headquarters, located at 9400 Peppercorn Place.

During the event, attendees will have direct access to representatives from permitting and licensing, inspections, building plan review, and site and road plan review. County staff will help participants begin permit applications, check the status of pending submissions and prepare for inspections. Workshops and tours of the Permit Center will also be available.

For County-based entrepreneurs and property owners, easier access to permitting guidance can help reduce uncertainty, prevent avoidable application delays and keep commercial projects moving forward. By offering assistance outside regular weekday hours, Prince George’s County is making an essential government process more accessible to residents who may be balancing work, business and family obligations.

Initiatives such as Permit Palooza support a stronger local business environment by helping entrepreneurs navigate regulatory requirements, safely open or expand their operations and move development projects closer to completion. A more informed business community is better positioned to invest, grow and contribute to Prince George’s County’s long-term economic vitality.

Read the original report from 7News/WJLA.

Governor Moore Announces New Maryland Headquarters for Founding Farmers

Governor Wes Moore today announced that Founding Farmers – a farmer-owned restaurant, full-service catering, and distilling business – has expanded operations in Prince George’s County. In 2024, Founding Farmers purchased 8100 Cryden Way in District Heights to grow its commercial kitchen; since then, the company has moved its D.C. headquarters into the 17,000 square-foot facility, here in Maryland. 

The Prince George’s County space is now fully operational, producing scratch-made food and drink – including house-roasted coffee, handcrafted chocolates, fresh-baked pastries, and more – for Founding Farmers restaurants and its catering and events company. By the end of 2027, Founding Farmers expects to have created more than 90 new full-time jobs, making it a welcome addition to the Prince George’s County community.

“Here in Maryland, we’re welcoming businesses and building a competitive, dynamic economy that brings prosperity to our communities,” said Gov. Moore. “We are excited to welcome the Founding Farmers headquarters to our state, as they continue to expand on Maryland’s world-class cuisine, champion our local farmers and bring high-quality food industry jobs to our people.” 

Founding Farmers employs more than 1,400 employees throughout the Mid-Atlantic, including its catering company and eight restaurant locations. As a farmer-owned establishment, the business has thrived on making its products from scratch, utilizing ingredients from trusted farmers, while continuing to send a greater portion of the food dollar back to its farmer-owners. The facility centralizes pieces of their production and administration in one space, including catering operations, some of its food and drink, holiday offerings, culinary classes, contact center, and more. Looking ahead, the space will support the future launch of a direct-to-consumer online shop, bringing Founding Farmers scratch-made products directly to customers nationwide.

“We’re all-in for Maryland, and we’re thrilled to have our District Heights headquarters,” said Co-founder of Founding Farmers and long-time Maryland resident Dan Simons. “The employee base is strong, the long-term investment thesis in the area is compelling, and the proximity to the Beltway is an essential ingredient for our expansion recipe that helps us better serve our restaurants, diners, and customers.” 

The concept of Founding Farmers was originally conceived in 2005 and is majority owned by American family farmers, including the 70,000 members of the North Dakota Farmers Union. The group established its first restaurant in 2008 in Washington, D.C., expanding to eight restaurant locations across the Mid-Atlantic, and opening its Founding Spirits distillery in 2016 in Washington, D.C. Each location upholds the Founding Farmers mission: delicious, sustainable food and drink made from scratch with high-quality ingredients sourced from family-owned farms, ranches, and producers across the nation. In 2023, the group launched Founding Farmers Co. Catering & Events, now competing directly with the top ten caterers in the trade area.

The Moore-Miller administration is committed to supporting all businesses that call Maryland home. To assist with project costs, the company is eligible for a $375,000 conditional loan through Advantage Maryland, administered by the Maryland Department of Commerce, and a matching $375,000 conditional loan through Prince George’s County’s Economic Development Incentive Fund. 

“We are thrilled to partner with Founding Farmers as it continues to grow in Maryland. This farmer-owned enterprise is set to enrich Prince George’s County by bringing new jobs and a strong commitment to the agriculture industry to the region,” said Maryland Department of Commerce Secretary Harry Coker, Jr. “We look forward to celebrating this exciting achievement with the company."

“The arrival of Founding Farmers represents a powerful investment in both our local workforce and importance for the future of sustainable agriculture. Their growth strengthens our commitment to supporting Prince George’s County producers, expanding our workforce, and building a resilient, community-centered economy,” said Prince George’s County Executive Aisha N. Braveboy. “We are proud to welcome Founding Farmers as they continue to innovate, lead, and contribute to the vibrant fabric of Prince George’s County.” 

“Prince George's County is proud to support Founding Farmers’ relocation to District Heights and the company’s impact on the local economy,” said President and CEO of Prince George's County Economic Development Corporation Ingrid Watson. “This project is a significant contribution – the company is investing in the area’s development while also supporting manufacturing industry sectors that align with the county’s strategic economic plan.”

$15 Million Gift to UMD Strengthens Prince George’s County’s Sports, Education and Talent Pipeline

A major philanthropic investment at the University of Maryland could further strengthen College Park’s role as a center for education, athletics and workforce development while creating new opportunities within Prince George’s County’s growing sports and business ecosystem.

As reported by Rachel Schlueter of the Washington Business Journal, University of Maryland alumnus and longtime sports executive Stephen M. Schanwald has committed $15 million to the university. The investment will support the development of a new golf performance center and expansion of the Stephen M. Schanwald Sports Management Program at the Robert H. Smith School of Business.

The latest contribution follows Schanwald’s $18 million commitment in 2024 and brings his total commitment associated with UMD’s Forward campaign to at least $33 million.

Investing in Prince George’s County’s Talent Pipeline

For Prince George’s County, the investment demonstrates how higher education, athletics and business development can work together to build a stronger regional economy.

A portion of the funding will expand UMD’s sports management program, allowing the university to develop both a major and minor, hire additional faculty and staff, and expand experiential and career-development opportunities for students. The program already connects students with sports industry leaders and organizations, including visits to NFL, NBA and MLB headquarters.

That expansion has implications beyond the classroom. Developing more graduates with expertise in marketing, management, analytics, operations and other areas of the sports industry adds to the skilled workforce available to businesses and organizations throughout Prince George’s County and the Greater Washington region.

New Investment in College Park

The gift will also support construction of an approximately 5,000-square-foot golf performance center for UMD’s men's and women's golf programs. University officials expect the facility to incorporate advanced technology, including indoor and outdoor hitting bays, a dynamic putting lab, high-speed cameras, sensors and Doppler radar.

While primarily an athletics investment, projects that enhance UMD’s facilities also contribute to College Park’s broader competitiveness. World-class academic and athletic amenities can strengthen the university’s ability to attract students, faculty, visitors and investment—all of which contribute to economic activity in the surrounding community.

The Broader Economic Opportunity

For County-based businesses, UMD’s continued growth reinforces the value of having a major research university and nationally recognized institution anchored in Prince George’s County.

Investments in new facilities and academic programs can generate demand for professional services, technology, construction and other supporting industries while developing talent that local employers can recruit. They also strengthen College Park’s ability to attract partnerships and organizations interested in locating near the university.

The sports industry itself presents a significant intersection of business, technology, media, marketing and entrepreneurship. By preparing students to become future leaders in that industry, UMD is building another pathway for talent development within the County.

Schanwald’s investment is therefore about more than golf or athletics. It demonstrates how private investment in education can help create the infrastructure, talent and opportunities that support long-term economic competitiveness.

As Prince George’s County continues to build its reputation as a destination for innovation and business growth, investments that connect education with real-world industries can help ensure that the next generation of talent—and the businesses seeking that talent—see the County as a place to grow.

Read the original Washington Business Journal report

MedStar’s $93 Million Critical Care Expansion Signals Major Investment in Prince George’s County

A proposed $93 million critical care tower at MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center in Clinton could mark the largest expansion in the hospital’s history—bringing significant new health care infrastructure investment to Prince George’s County while strengthening an industry that continues to be an important source of jobs and economic activity across the region.

As reported by Rachel Schlueter of the Washington Business Journal, MedStar plans to construct a four-story critical care tower that would add 32 intensive care unit beds and 16 medical-surgical beds to its Southern Maryland Hospital Center campus. MedStar is seeking $35 million in state funding to support the project.

For Prince George’s County, an investment of this scale represents more than an expansion of medical capacity. It reflects continued private-sector confidence in the County and creates the potential for economic activity extending from construction and skilled trades to health care, professional services, suppliers and other businesses supporting a major medical institution.

Health Care as an Economic Driver

Health care is increasingly important to Greater Washington’s economic outlook. In a recent Washington Business Journal commentary, leaders from the Greater Washington Partnership, MedStar Health and Inova Health System described the sector as an engine for innovation, employment and community stability, noting that regional projections show health care generating more new jobs than any other sector through 2035.

That outlook has particular relevance in Prince George’s County. MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center is already a major health care anchor in Clinton, providing acute and specialty care to residents throughout Prince George’s County and Southern Maryland.

Expanding that footprint can create opportunities throughout the local economy. Large health care construction projects require architects, engineers, contractors, skilled trades and suppliers, while expanded facilities can generate longer-term demand for clinical professionals, administrative staff, technology providers and other support services.

For County-based businesses, particularly firms positioned to participate in construction, procurement and professional services, major institutional investments are also a reminder of the opportunities that can emerge when established employers expand locally.

Investing in Quality of Life and Economic Competitiveness

The benefits of stronger health care infrastructure also extend beyond direct business opportunities.

Access to high-quality medical care is an important component of a community’s overall economic competitiveness. Businesses considering where to locate or expand evaluate not only real estate and workforce availability, but also the quality-of-life infrastructure available to their employees and families.

MedStar Southern Maryland already provides a broad range of services, including cancer care, cardiology, neurosciences, orthopedics and women’s health. The hospital reports tens of thousands of emergency visits and thousands of admissions annually, demonstrating its significant role in serving the region.

A substantial expansion of critical care capacity would further strengthen that role while keeping more advanced health care services close to home.

For Prince George’s County, the proposed $93 million investment illustrates the interconnected nature of health, workforce development and economic growth. Strong health care institutions create jobs, support surrounding businesses, attract investment and contribute to the infrastructure necessary for thriving communities.

As Prince George’s County continues working to attract and retain businesses, investments that strengthen essential community assets can help reinforce the County as a place where companies, workers and families can grow together.

Read the original Washington Business Journal report

Aviation Landing Plans Signal New Economic Momentum for College Park and Prince George’s County

A major mixed-use development planned for College Park is moving forward with a renewed vision that could bring new housing, retail activity, jobs and investment to one of Prince George’s County’s most important innovation corridors.

As reported by Hannah Ziegler of the Washington Business Journal, developers recently shared new details about Aviation Landing, a large-scale project near the College Park Airport that was originally announced in 2022 but faced delays related to stormwater management. The development team discussed its updated plans during an August 27 pre-application community meeting.

The latest broader proposal calls for up to 1,400 multifamily residential units, 66,000 square feet of commercial space and 54,000 square feet of retail, according to the City of College Park. An initial phase could include up to 600 residential units and approximately 36,000 square feet of retail and commercial space. Plans remain under review and are subject to change as the project moves through the County development process.

Building Around Prince George’s County’s Innovation Economy

For Prince George’s County, Aviation Landing represents more than a real estate project. Its location places new development near the University of Maryland, College Park Metro, the future Purple Line, College Park Airport and the growing Discovery District—creating the potential for a more connected environment where residents, researchers, entrepreneurs and businesses can live, work and collaborate.

That connectivity is particularly important as College Park continues developing into a regional hub for research, technology and entrepreneurship. Terrapin Development Company describes its broader Greater College Park strategy as creating a walkable community that supports both local economic vitality and a growing research and entrepreneurial ecosystem.

For County businesses, increased residential density and commercial activity can translate into a larger customer base and greater demand for restaurants, retail, professional services and neighborhood amenities. Development at this scale can also create opportunities for local contractors, suppliers and service providers as investment moves from planning into construction and eventually ongoing operations.

Creating a Platform for Long-Term Growth

The economic potential extends beyond the immediate development site. When Aviation Landing was originally announced, the University of Maryland projected that the full development could ultimately support approximately 2,700 permanent jobs and $370 million in annual economic output. While the project has evolved since those initial projections were released, they illustrate the scale of the economic development opportunity envisioned for the area.

Public investment is also helping move the site toward development. In July, Maryland approved $2.5 million for engineering and predevelopment work associated with relocating a storm drain at the Aviation Landing site, addressing infrastructure necessary for future mixed-use development.

For Prince George’s County, projects like Aviation Landing demonstrate how strategic development can connect housing, transportation, research institutions and commercial activity to strengthen an entire business ecosystem. As College Park continues to attract investment and innovation, the opportunity is not simply to build more—it is to create an environment where existing County businesses can grow alongside new companies, residents and industries.

The next phase will be important to watch. If Aviation Landing successfully leverages its proximity to transit, the University of Maryland and the Discovery District, it could become another catalyst for expanding Prince George’s County’s commercial tax base, creating jobs and positioning College Park as an increasingly competitive destination for business and investment.

Read the original Washington Business Journal report

New Grant Opportunities Could Help Prince George’s County Small Businesses Fuel Their Next Stage of Growth

For small businesses in Prince George’s County, access to capital can make the difference between maintaining day-to-day operations and moving forward with plans to hire, expand or invest in new capabilities. A new round of grant opportunities available in September could provide entrepreneurs with another avenue to secure that critical funding.

As reported by Andy Medici, Senior Reporter for The Playbook at The Business Journals, several new grant opportunities are available to small-business owners this month, arriving as small businesses experience what the publication describes as a “mini hiring boom.”

That timing is particularly relevant for Prince George’s County businesses. Grant funding can provide entrepreneurs with capital that does not carry the repayment obligations associated with traditional financing, potentially giving companies greater flexibility to invest in workforce development, equipment, technology, marketing and other activities that support growth.

The opportunities highlighted by The Business Journals include programs connected to companies such as H&R Block, Credibly and Breva, reinforcing a broader trend of private-sector organizations creating funding opportunities aimed at supporting small-business development.

What This Means for Prince George’s County

For County-based entrepreneurs, the larger takeaway goes beyond any single grant program: businesses that consistently identify and pursue alternative sources of capital can put themselves in a stronger position to act when opportunities arise.

Additional funding can help a growing business add employees, strengthen its digital presence, purchase equipment or build the capacity necessary to compete for larger contracts. Those investments can have an impact beyond the individual company. When local businesses expand, they can generate employment, increase commercial activity and contribute to a stronger and more resilient Prince George’s County economy.

Business owners should also approach grants strategically. Competitive programs often have specific eligibility requirements, application windows and intended uses for funding. Preparing basic business information, financial documentation and a clear explanation of how funding would support growth can help entrepreneurs move quickly when the right opportunity becomes available.

With new grant programs continuing to emerge, Prince George’s County businesses should view funding searches as an ongoing part of their growth strategy—not simply something to pursue when capital becomes an immediate need.

As The Business Journals’ September roundup demonstrates, opportunities are available. For local entrepreneurs, staying informed and being prepared to apply could turn those opportunities into the resources needed to take the next step.

Read the original reporting: Small-business grants you can apply for in September 2026 — Washington Business Journal

How PGC Tech Firm PerVista Is Using AI At NFL Stadiums This Year

A Prince George’s County technology company is demonstrating how locally developed artificial intelligence can compete on some of the nation’s biggest stages.

As reported by journalist John Domen of WTOP News and highlighted by Three | E 60 News, Prince George’s County-based PerVista AI is deploying its AI-powered security technology at Northwest Stadium in Landover and Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. The technology is designed to detect potential firearm threats in areas outside stadium entrances, including parking lots and tailgating areas, adding another layer of security for large-scale events.

PerVista’s system uses artificial intelligence to analyze video for potential firearms and then sends detected threats to a 24/7 operations center for human verification. CEO Vennard Wright emphasized to WTOP that the technology is focused on identifying weapons rather than people, with the goal of strengthening public safety while addressing privacy concerns.

For Prince George’s County, PerVista’s growing reach represents more than a technology success story. It illustrates the potential for County-based companies to develop solutions locally, demonstrate them in their own communities, and scale those solutions into larger regional and national markets. The company’s technology is also being used at Bowie State University, where Maryland’s FY2026 capital budget included $200,000 for an AI PerVista security system.

That trajectory is particularly significant as Prince George’s County continues building momentum within the artificial intelligence and emerging technology sectors. Cloudforce, another County-based technology company, recently announced plans to expand its National Harbor headquarters, retain more than 130 employees, and create 250 new Maryland jobs over five years as it scales its AI platform. Together, these developments demonstrate how Prince George’s County companies are moving from simply adopting emerging technologies to creating and commercializing them.

The economic opportunity extends beyond individual technology firms. As companies like PerVista secure high-profile deployments, they can generate demand for technical talent, cybersecurity expertise, systems integration, professional services, partnerships, and other specialized support. Successful deployments also give local innovators valuable proof points that can strengthen their competitiveness when pursuing future contracts in government, education, transportation, entertainment, and other industries.

PerVista’s presence at NFL stadiums offers a powerful example of what the County’s innovation economy can become: technology developed in Prince George’s County, proven in Prince George’s County, and positioned to serve customers far beyond its borders.

For County-based entrepreneurs and technology firms, the larger takeaway is that innovation does not have to leave Prince George’s County to scale. With the right combination of technology, talent, partnerships, and market access, local companies can build solutions here—and compete nationally.

Read the full article here: https://threee60.com/how-pgc-tech-firm-pervista-is-using-ai-at-nfl-stadiums-this-year/

Clark Construction Subsidiary C3M Inks 141,000-Square-Foot Lease Bringing New Activity To PGC Logistics Hub

Prince George’s County continues to demonstrate its value as a strategic location for companies seeking room to grow, consolidate operations, and connect to the greater Washington metropolitan market.

As reported by Three | E 60 News, C3M Power Systems, a subsidiary of Clark Construction Group, has secured more than 141,000 square feet at the Capital Interstate Logistics Center in Forestville, bringing a significant new industrial presence to Prince George’s County. The company plans to consolidate operations currently located at two separate Maryland facilities in Capitol Heights and North Englewood into the expanded Forestville property.

The move is also breathing new life into an existing commercial property. According to Three | E 60 News, Silverman Group purchased the former furniture showroom site for $25 million earlier this year and is redeveloping it into a modern industrial and logistics facility. Approximately 66,000 square feet will be added, bringing the completed property to roughly 176,000 square feet, including a new 34,000-square-foot office area specifically designed for C3M.

For Prince George’s County, the project represents more than a major commercial lease. It demonstrates how the adaptive reuse of existing properties can attract growing companies, generate new investment, and strengthen commercial corridors while making better use of established real estate assets.

C3M’s decision also highlights one of the County’s strongest competitive advantages: location. The company specializes in electrical infrastructure and systems supporting railways, airports, and highways, and cited accessibility to the Capital Beltway as one of the factors behind its decision to locate in Forestville.

That connectivity can create opportunities extending beyond C3M itself. Large-scale infrastructure and industrial operations require networks of contractors, suppliers, professional service providers, transportation companies, and other businesses to support their growth. For Prince George’s County-based small and minority-owned businesses, continued investment in sectors such as construction, electrical infrastructure, transportation, and logistics can expand the potential pipeline for partnerships and contracting opportunities.

The C3M expansion is another indication that Prince George’s County is increasingly positioned not simply as a place to do business, but as a place where companies can scale. By combining access to major transportation networks with redevelopment opportunities and proximity to the broader DMV economy, the County continues to strengthen its appeal to businesses looking for their next stage of growth.

For local businesses, the takeaway is equally important: when major companies expand in Prince George’s County, the opportunity extends beyond the walls of a new facility. The broader economic value comes from the ecosystem of businesses, workers, contractors, and communities that can grow alongside them.

Read original article here : https://threee60.com/clark-construction-subsidiary-c3m-inks-141000-square-foot-lease-bringing-new-activity-to-pgc-logistics-hub/

Amazon Highlights $20 Billion Maryland Investment

Amazon’s growing investment in Maryland is more than a headline—it is a signal of the expanding economic opportunities available to businesses, entrepreneurs, and workers across Prince George’s County.

As reported by THREEE60, Amazon has highlighted more than $20 billion invested in Maryland since 2010, reflecting the company’s expanding footprint across infrastructure, logistics, technology, workforce development, and small business commerce. Amazon reports that its investments have contributed more than $20 billion to Maryland’s economy, while the company now employs more than 23,000 people across the state and supports more than 10,000 additional indirect jobs in industries including construction, logistics, and professional services.

For Prince George’s County, those numbers point to an important opportunity. The County has already established itself as a strategic location for Amazon’s last-mile distribution operations, with more than one million square feet of distribution space previously purchased or leased within the County. That presence demonstrates how major corporate investment can create opportunities that extend beyond one company to local contractors, suppliers, transportation providers, professional service firms, and workers.

The potential is especially significant for small businesses. According to Amazon, Maryland-based independent sellers sold more than 37 million products through its marketplace, with the average seller generating more than $250,000 in annual sales. For Prince George’s County entrepreneurs, access to digital marketplaces, logistics infrastructure, cloud technology, and a growing regional customer base can provide new pathways to scale beyond the County while continuing to create jobs and economic activity locally.

Amazon’s investment also arrives as Prince George’s County strengthens its position in the technology economy. Cloudforce recently announced an expansion of its National Harbor headquarters that is expected to add 250 Maryland jobs over five years, while retaining more than 130 employees. Together, developments in AI, cloud computing, logistics, and other emerging technologies point toward a broader shift in the region’s economy—and an opportunity for County businesses to position themselves within the supply chains and services supporting that growth.

At the same time, growth in digital infrastructure requires thoughtful planning. Prince George’s County currently has a temporary moratorium on certain new data center applications while County leaders consider comprehensive policies addressing zoning, siting, infrastructure, environmental concerns, and community benefits. That discussion is particularly relevant as Maryland continues attracting investment in cloud and data infrastructure.

The larger takeaway for Prince George’s County businesses is clear: major investment creates the greatest local impact when businesses are prepared to participate in it. Building technical capacity, pursuing procurement opportunities, developing strategic partnerships, strengthening workforce skills, and adopting emerging technologies can help local companies become part of Maryland’s next chapter of economic growth.

For Prince George’s County, the question is not simply how much investment is coming to Maryland, but how effectively local businesses can position themselves to capture the opportunities it creates.

Read original article: https://threee60.com/amazon-highlights-20-billion-maryland-investment/

Honeygrow Fast Casual Restaurant Opening Soon in Hyattsville

Fast-casual restaurant honeygrow is opening soon at the Mall at Prince George’s in Hyattsville.

Founded in Philadelphia in 2012, the chain specializes in customizable made-to-order stir-fries, salads, and its signature “honeybar” dessert of fruits, toppings, and a drizzle of local honey or maple syrup.

It will open in the spot formerly occupied by Mezeh Mediterranean Grill in the mall’s interior food court on Monday, Aug. 24.

This will be the 82nd location and 15th in Maryland for honeygrow, which was recently named to a list of the 10 best fast casual restaurants by readers of USA Today.

“Maryland continues to be an important part of honeygrow’s growth, and Hyattsville is a community we’re really excited to join,” said Todd Miller, honeygrow senior vice president.

The restaurant will be open from 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.

Read the original article on The Hyattsville Wire

Quantum World Congress 2026 Brings the Global Quantum Economy to Prince George’s County

This September, Prince George’s County will welcome leaders from around the world as Quantum World Congress 2026 brings the global quantum ecosystem to College Park for three days of innovation, investment, commercialization, and international collaboration.

Taking place September 23–25, 2026, at The Hotel at the University of Maryland, Quantum World Congress will convene leaders from science, industry, academia, investment, and government to explore the technologies and partnerships shaping the rapidly emerging quantum economy. After debuting in Washington, D.C., and spending three years in Tysons, Virginia, the international gathering is moving to College Park and the heart of Prince George’s County’s growing quantum innovation ecosystem.

The move represents another important milestone for Prince George’s County as it continues establishing itself as a destination for advanced technology, research, commercialization, and next-generation industries.

The Global Quantum Community Comes to College Park

Quantum World Congress is designed to connect breakthrough research with real-world applications and commercialization. The 2026 program will include global keynotes, startup showcases, workshops, networking, investment conversations, and cross-sector partnerships focused on moving quantum technologies from research into the marketplace.

College Park provides a fitting backdrop.

The University of Maryland anchors a significant concentration of quantum research through assets including the Joint Quantum Institute, Joint Center for Quantum Information and Computer Science, and Quantum Technology Center. The surrounding Discovery District is also home to quantum computing company IonQ, while Microsoft is establishing a new quantum research center in the district and DARPA has partnered with Maryland to establish the Capital Quantum Benchmarking Hub in College Park.

Bringing Quantum World Congress to this ecosystem creates an opportunity for global visitors to experience firsthand the research, companies, talent, infrastructure, and partnerships developing in Prince George’s County.

International Collaboration Begins Before the Congress

The global reach of Quantum World Congress will be evident even before the main conference begins.

On September 22, the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), G-QuAT, Q-STAR, and NEDO will host the Japan-U.S. Quantum Innovation Exchange at The Hotel at the University of Maryland as an official side event of Quantum World Congress 2026.

The exchange will bring Japanese and American quantum stakeholders together for company pitches, networking, and pre-arranged one-on-one business matchmaking meetings. Participants are expected to include startups, corporations, investors, research organizations, and quantum ecosystem partners.

Japanese companies currently scheduled to participate represent technologies ranging from quantum communications and photonic quantum computing to neutral-atom hardware, optimization, quantum networking, and quantum computer control systems. The program is specifically designed to encourage R&D partnerships, investment, joint development, pilot projects, and commercialization opportunities between Japanese and U.S. organizations.

That international business activity is significant for Prince George’s County.

For several days, College Park will become a meeting place where international companies can connect with American technology leaders, investors, researchers, government representatives, and potential partners—creating the kinds of relationships that can ultimately lead to investment, business expansion, commercialization, and new economic opportunities.

From Quantum Research to Quantum Economy

Quantum World Congress arriving in Prince George’s County also reinforces a larger economic development story: quantum technology is increasingly moving beyond scientific research toward commercialization.

The 2026 Congress will focus on areas including workforce development, entrepreneurship, investment access, applied innovation, cybersecurity, commercialization, and industry collaboration.

For Prince George’s County, hosting an international event of this caliber provides more than visibility. It creates an opportunity to demonstrate how the County’s combination of university research, federal proximity, private-sector innovation, transportation access, talent, and available business infrastructure can support companies working at the frontier of emerging technology.

It also brings international decision-makers directly into the County rather than requiring Prince George’s County to tell its innovation story from afar.

Prince George’s County on the Global Innovation Stage

The Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation continues working to position the County as a destination where innovative companies can start, grow, invest, and commercialize new technologies.

Quantum World Congress 2026 provides an international platform for that message.

As researchers, entrepreneurs, investors, corporations, government leaders, and international delegations converge in College Park this September, they will not simply be attending a global technology conference.

They will be experiencing firsthand an innovation ecosystem that is helping build the future of the quantum economy, right here in Prince George’s County.

Quantum World Congress 2026
September 23–25, 2026
The Hotel at the University of Maryland
College Park, Maryland

Registration and program information are available through the Quantum World Congress 2026 website.

The Japan-U.S. Quantum Innovation Exchange will take place September 22, 2026. Additional information is available through JETRO.

Star Chef, Author & Content Creator Olivia Tiedemann Joins Voltaggio Brothers for "House Guest" Series at MGM National Harbor, September 17

Prince George’s County’s dining and entertainment scene will take center stage on Thursday, September 17, when star chef, author, and content creator Olivia Tiedemann joins acclaimed chefs Michael and Bryan Voltaggio for a special edition of the “House Guest” dinner series at Voltaggio Brothers Steak House at MGM National Harbor.

The one-night-only culinary collaboration will feature an innovative five-course menu inspired by Tiedemann’s new cookbook, Eat (Like) the Rich. The three chefs will combine their distinctive culinary styles, techniques, and creativity to deliver an interactive dining experience for guests.

Throughout the evening, diners will have an opportunity to watch the chefs at work and hear the inspiration behind each course. Guests will also receive a signed copy of Tiedemann’s cookbook as a keepsake from the experience.

A Culinary Reunion at National Harbor

The September dinner reunites longtime culinary friends Tiedemann and the Voltaggio brothers, who previously worked together as part of the star-studded culinary lineup at the Bellagio Fountain Club during the Las Vegas Grand Prix. The experience resulted in the trio getting matching racing tattoos, which can now be seen on the cover of Tiedemann’s new cookbook.

“We are so excited to team up with Olivia at our Maryland ‘home’ to create an evening that will wow our guests,” said Chef Michael Voltaggio. “Chef Tiedemann’s bold style and culinary prowess offer unlimited possibilities for what we can create together.”

Tiedemann said returning to Maryland to collaborate with the brothers makes the experience particularly meaningful.

“I’m thrilled to partner with Michael and Bryan for this special event at MGM National Harbor,” Tiedemann said. “They have always been so supportive of my culinary journey, so it’s an honor to be part of their ‘House Guest’ series to cook alongside them in this unique setting.”

Chef Bryan Voltaggio added, “Olivia is a true star in every sense of the word with the culinary chops to back it up. We cannot wait to put our brains together and put on a show our guests will always remember.”

A Destination for Culinary Experiences

Special events such as the “House Guest” series further strengthen National Harbor’s position as a regional destination for dining, hospitality, entertainment, and tourism while bringing nationally recognized culinary talent to Prince George’s County.

MGM National Harbor represents a significant component of the County’s hospitality economy. The $1.4 billion LEED Gold Certified resort features 308 guest rooms, more than 50,000 square feet of meeting space, an entertainment theater with flexible seating for up to 3,000 guests, retail, gaming, and restaurants featuring acclaimed local, national, and international chefs.

Experiences that bring together culinary talent, hospitality, entertainment, and visitors demonstrate the continued importance of Prince George’s County’s restaurant and tourism sectors to the broader economic ecosystem.

Event Details

House Guest: Olivia Tiedemann with Michael & Bryan Voltaggio
Date: Thursday, September 17, 2026
Location: Voltaggio Brothers Steak House at MGM National Harbor
Five-Course Dinner: $225 per person, plus tax and gratuity
Optional Wine Pairing: $55 per person

Reservations open Monday, August 17 at 12:00 p.m. ET through MGM National Harbor.

Guests will receive a signed copy of Olivia Tiedemann’s Eat (Like) the Rich as part of the experience.

Wonder’s Bowie Expansion Brings New Opportunities for Prince George’s County’s Restaurant Economy

Prince George’s County’s growing food and hospitality sector continues to gain momentum with the opening of Wonder’s newest digital food hall in Bowie, further strengthening the County’s reputation as a destination for innovative dining experiences and business investment.

Wonder officially opened its Bowie location on July 30, offering customers access to more than 20 chef-driven restaurant concepts through a single ordering platform for dine-in, pickup, and delivery. As reported by Kristin Danley-Greiner for Patch, the Bowie location is Wonder’s second in Prince George’s County, joining its College Park location, with a third County location already planned for Largo Plaza.

For Prince George’s County businesses, the expansion reflects growing confidence in the local market and highlights continued demand for convenient, technology-driven dining experiences. Investments like Wonder support the County’s retail and hospitality sectors by increasing consumer traffic, creating employment opportunities, and attracting additional commercial investment to key business corridors.

The Bowie location also reinforces Prince George’s County’s appeal as a strategic destination for companies seeking access to a diverse and growing customer base. As the food service industry continues to evolve, innovative concepts that combine multiple restaurant brands under one roof help meet changing consumer preferences while creating new opportunities for restaurant operators, delivery partners, and local suppliers.

Wonder's continued expansion throughout Prince George’s County signals a positive outlook for the County’s restaurant ecosystem. New dining destinations not only enhance the quality of life for residents but also strengthen the County’s ability to attract visitors, support surrounding businesses, and drive long-term economic growth.

As Prince George’s County continues to invest in vibrant commercial districts, developments like Wonder demonstrate how innovative retail concepts can contribute to a dynamic local economy while expanding consumer choice and supporting a thriving business community.

Read Full Article Here