State, university officials tout opening of new quantum research center

Prince George’s County continues to strengthen its position in the rapidly expanding quantum technology sector with the opening of the Microsoft Quantum Research Center in the University of Maryland’s Discovery District in College Park.

As reported by Pera Onal of Maryland Matters, state officials, University of Maryland leaders and quantum research representatives celebrated the opening of the new facility on September 22. The center represents another major step in Maryland’s Capital of Quantum initiative, a public-private effort launched in 2025 to accelerate investment in quantum computing research and commercialization.

Microsoft’s presence adds to a growing concentration of quantum companies establishing operations in and around College Park. Maryland Matters reports that IQM, Quantum Motion and Riverlane have also established or announced facilities in the Discovery District since Microsoft announced its plans for the research center.

For Prince George’s County, this concentration of advanced technology companies creates an economic development opportunity that extends beyond the quantum industry itself. Continued investment can generate demand for highly skilled workers while creating opportunities for County businesses that provide construction, engineering, cybersecurity, information technology, professional services, facilities support and other services needed by a growing technology ecosystem.

The location also strengthens the connection between research, workforce development and private-sector growth. Microsoft representatives cited the University of Maryland’s research capabilities, available talent and proximity to Washington, D.C., as factors supporting the company’s investment in College Park.

The broader Capital of Quantum initiative has already generated more than $500 million in pledged investments toward a $1 billion goal, according to the Governor’s Office, as reported by Maryland Matters. As the initiative develops, Prince George’s County businesses have an opportunity to position themselves alongside an emerging industry with potential applications ranging from pharmaceuticals and advanced materials to national security and computing.

The opening of the Microsoft Quantum Research Center further reinforces College Park and Prince George’s County as a growing destination for research-driven companies, talent and investment—and creates new possibilities for local businesses prepared to participate in the ecosystem.

Original Article:
Maryland Matters — Pera Onal, September 23, 2026

https://marylandmatters.org/2026/09/23/state-university-officials-tout-opening-of-new-quantum-research-center/

Laurel’s 2027 business support grants open for applications on October 2

Businesses in Laurel will soon have access to new funding opportunities designed to support storefront investment, business expansion and employment as the City prepares to open applications for its Fiscal Year 2027 business support grants.

As reported by The Business Monthly, applications open at 3 p.m. on Friday, October 2, for three programs: the Main Street Business Relocation Grant, Main Street Façade Improvement Grant and Returning Citizens Employment Grant.

For businesses operating within Prince George’s County, these programs demonstrate how targeted local investment can help reduce some of the costs associated with opening, improving and growing a business.

The Main Street Business Relocation Grant provides reimbursements of up to $10,000 to help businesses relocate or establish operations in vacant storefronts within Laurel’s Main Street area. By encouraging businesses to occupy available commercial space, the program can support both individual entrepreneurs and the continued economic activity of the surrounding business district.

The Main Street Façade Improvement Grant provides qualifying businesses with reimbursement ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 for approved exterior improvements. The program has a total grant fund of $50,000, with qualifying projects funded on a first-come, first-served basis.

Laurel’s Returning Citizens Employment Grant provides up to $10,000 to eligible businesses that hire a returning citizen. In addition to supporting employment opportunities, the initiative provides participating employers with resources that can help offset costs associated with expanding their workforce.

Together, these programs illustrate the role that strategic economic development investments can play in strengthening commercial corridors, encouraging business occupancy, improving the physical appearance of business districts and connecting residents with employment.

For Prince George’s County entrepreneurs, particularly those considering Laurel’s Main Street area, the upcoming application period represents an opportunity to explore resources that could support their next stage of growth.

Original Article:
The Business Monthly, September 30, 2026

https://bizmonthly.com/news/business/2026/09/laurels-2027-business-support-grants-open-for-applications-on-october-2/

Andrews Federal Credit Union develops Andrews in Action partnership, brings summer fun and community building to Prince George’s County

A partnership between Andrews Federal Credit Union and Prince George’s County is demonstrating how private-sector organizations can support community development while expanding access to financial resources for residents and businesses.

According to a press release published by CUInsight, Andrews Federal Credit Union contributed $50,000 to support County Executive Aisha Braveboy’s 311 On the Go initiative and increase access to resources, including financial education, for people who live and work throughout Prince George’s County.

The partnership was carried out through Andrews Federal’s Andrews in Action community engagement initiative. During the summer, credit union volunteers participated in free community events across the County that combined recreational activities with opportunities for residents to access financial resources and connect with neighbors and local business partners.

For Prince George’s County’s business community, partnerships of this kind can contribute to a stronger economic ecosystem by connecting financial institutions directly with the communities they serve. Greater access to financial education and trusted financial resources can help residents and entrepreneurs make informed financial decisions, while community events can create additional opportunities for businesses and institutions to build relationships at the neighborhood level.

The initiative also highlights the broader role financial institutions can play in economic development beyond traditional banking services. Collaboration among businesses, financial institutions, government agencies and community organizations can help make resources more accessible while strengthening connections between residents and the organizations investing in Prince George’s County.

Andrews Federal’s investment provides another example of how public-private partnerships can support community engagement and financial empowerment while helping create conditions for broader economic participation across the County.

Original Article:
CUInsight, September 28, 2026

https://www.cuinsight.com/press-release/andrews-federal-credit-union-develops-andrews-in-action-partnership-brings-summer-fun-and-community-building-to-prince-georges-county/

Falls Church firm snags light industrial building in Pr. George's for $15M

Falls Church firm snags light industrial building in Pr. George's for $15M

A $15 million industrial real estate acquisition in Capitol Heights is bringing a new investor into Prince George’s County and underscoring continued private-sector interest in the County’s industrial market.

As reported by Hannah Ziegler of the Washington Business Journal, 1788 Holdings LLC acquired a 103,000-square-foot light industrial property at 51 Ritchie Road in Capitol Heights. The acquisition marks the Falls Church-based company’s first property in Prince George’s County and its ninth in Maryland.

The transaction is significant for the County because industrial properties play an important role in supporting businesses across construction, logistics, distribution, manufacturing, contracting and other sectors that require flexible operational space and access to the broader Washington metropolitan market.

For Prince George’s County-based businesses, continued investment in industrial real estate can help maintain a pipeline of commercial properties capable of accommodating companies at different stages of growth. Industrial facilities can also support business-to-business activity by bringing property owners, tenants, contractors, suppliers and service providers into the same local economic ecosystem.

Capitol Heights’ position within the Washington metropolitan region makes the area particularly relevant for businesses that depend on regional connectivity. Investment from a company entering Prince George’s County for the first time also provides another indication of the County’s ability to attract capital from firms already active elsewhere in Maryland and the greater Washington region.

As investors continue to evaluate industrial opportunities throughout the region, transactions such as the 51 Ritchie Road acquisition highlight Prince George’s County’s role as a location where commercial real estate investment and business growth can intersect.

Original Article:
Washington Business Journal — Hannah Ziegler, September 28, 2026

https://www.bizjournals.com/washington/news/2026/09/28/1788-holdings-capitol-heights-industrial-purchase.html

State officials, quantum leaders celebrate new research center opening at UMD

Prince George’s County’s growing quantum technology ecosystem has gained another major research asset with the opening of a Microsoft-backed quantum research center at the University of Maryland. As reported by The Diamondback, Maryland officials, University of Maryland leadership, Microsoft executives and representatives from the quantum industry gathered to mark the center’s opening, strengthening the connection between academic research and one of the region’s fastest-emerging technology sectors.

The center adds to a growing concentration of quantum activity in and around College Park. For Prince George’s County, that concentration has the potential to translate scientific research into broader economic opportunity by attracting researchers, entrepreneurs, established technology companies and investment. Proximity between university researchers and private-sector companies can also accelerate collaboration and help move emerging technologies from laboratories toward practical commercial applications.

For County-based businesses, the opportunity extends beyond companies directly developing quantum technology. A growing innovation cluster requires a much larger support ecosystem that can include cybersecurity firms, government contractors, professional service providers, construction and facilities companies, workforce training organizations and other businesses capable of supporting expanding technology companies. The opening of the new research center further strengthens College Park’s role as a place where research, talent, entrepreneurship and commercialization can converge. As the quantum industry develops, Prince George’s County’s ability to connect its existing business community with that growth will be an important part of turning technological innovation into long-term local economic impact.

Read the original article: The Diamondback

Little Blue Menu Reopened in College Park

The reopening of Little Blue Menu in College Park highlights the importance of continued reinvestment in the restaurants and small businesses that contribute to Prince George’s County’s commercial corridors. According to College Park Life, the restaurant has reopened following updates that include streamlined kitchen operations, expanded menu offerings, additional ordering options and a dining room with approximately 100 seats.

For College Park, businesses like Little Blue Menu operate within a unique economic environment shaped by the University of Maryland, nearby employment centers, residents, students and an expanding technology and innovation community. Restaurants and retail establishments help turn that activity into a more complete commercial ecosystem by providing places for people to dine, meet, work and spend locally. Improvements that help established businesses adapt to changing customer preferences can therefore have an impact beyond an individual storefront.

From an economic development perspective, retaining and reinvesting in existing businesses is just as important as attracting new ones. Successful commercial corridors require a mix of businesses capable of serving residents while also capturing spending from students, employees and visitors. As College Park continues to experience investment connected to the University of Maryland and the Discovery District, a strong restaurant and retail environment can help support that growth, contribute to the community’s overall appeal and keep more economic activity within Prince George’s County.

Read the original article: College Park Life

THIS YEAR'S QUANTUM WORLD CONGRESS

This Year's Quantum World Congress

Quantum World Congress returns to College Park September 23–25, bringing leaders from across science, industry, government, finance and academia to Prince George’s County for three days focused on the rapidly advancing global quantum economy. Organized by Connected DMV through its Potomac Quantum Innovation Center initiative, the event will convene major technology companies, researchers, startups, investors and policymakers to explore quantum commercialization, cybersecurity, workforce development, investment and real-world applications. As reported by Quantum World Congress, this year’s event features participation from leading quantum companies including IonQ, Microsoft, IBM, Quantinuum, D-Wave, Atom Computing, Classiq and Infleqtion.

The decision to convene the global event in College Park also highlights Prince George’s County’s expanding role in the quantum technology landscape. The area is home to the University of Maryland’s extensive research ecosystem, College Park-based IonQ, Microsoft’s new Quantum Research Center, the Discovery District, the Quantum Startup Foundry and other organizations working across research, commercialization and entrepreneurship. Quantum World Congress describes College Park as representing the full quantum pipeline—from research and engineering to startup formation and commercial deployment.

For Prince George’s County businesses, that concentration of activity presents opportunities that extend well beyond companies developing quantum computers. A growing technology cluster requires cybersecurity expertise, professional and technical services, government contractors, workforce and training partners, facilities and infrastructure support, and businesses capable of serving companies and talent entering the region. Bringing international companies, investors and decision-makers directly into Prince George’s County also provides an opportunity to showcase the County as a destination for business expansion and emerging technology investment.

Quantum World Congress reported that its 2025 gathering attracted participants from more than 30 countries and 33 states, representing more than 500 organizations. Building on that momentum, the 2026 Congress further positions College Park as a meeting point for research, capital, talent, government and industry. For Prince George’s County, hosting an international gathering of this scale provides another opportunity to turn the region’s growing reputation for quantum innovation into new partnerships, business opportunities, investment and long-term economic growth.

Read the original article: Quantum World Congress – This Year's Quantum World Congress

Developer advances plan for 282 affordable multifamily units near New Carrollton Metro

A proposed affordable housing development near the New Carrollton Metro station is advancing plans to bring hundreds of new residences to one of Prince George’s County’s major transit-oriented communities. As reported by Hannah Ziegler of the Washington Business Journal, RST Development is proposing to replace the one-story commercial property at 7591 Annapolis Road with a six-story residential building containing 282 apartments. Nearly all of the units would be designated for households earning up to 60% of the area median income.

The project represents more than an expansion of the County’s housing supply. New residential development near transit can contribute to a stronger local business environment by increasing the number of residents living close to restaurants, retailers, professional services and other neighborhood amenities. New Carrollton’s connections to Metro and regional transportation also make the area an important gateway for workers, residents and businesses throughout Prince George’s County.

For the County’s business community, continued residential investment around New Carrollton can help create the population density needed to support additional commercial activity while improving access to the regional workforce. The development also reflects the broader role that attainable housing can play in economic development. When workers have more opportunities to live near employment centers and transportation, businesses benefit from a more accessible labor pool and communities are better positioned to retain household spending. As Prince George’s County continues to grow around its transit assets, projects that connect housing, transportation and commercial activity can contribute to stronger and more sustainable economic corridors.

Read the original article: Washington Business Journal

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.

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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.

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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