CSM And Calvert County To Host Open House For Southern Maryland's First Business Incubator

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md., -- June 13, 2001 -- The Calvert County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) and the College of Southern Maryland (CSM) will host an open house to launch Southern Maryland’s first business incubator on July 10, 2001 at 1:30 p.m. at the Calvert County Telecommuting Center, Prince Frederick. Operations at the incubator will commence on July 1, 2001. The BOCC approved $49,900 to CSM last May in start up operating costs.

Both CSM and Calvert County will recruit, develop and graduate economically viable companies into the community. Day-to-day management will be provided by CSM. A technology and business start-up counselor will provide mentoring services, business plan development and review services, investor/financial advice, marketing advice, management team development, and new product assessments as needed.

Tenants will be charged a monthly rental fee based on square footage occupied and at a rate significantly lower than the market rate lease in Prince Frederick. Additionally, separate fees will be assessed for Internet access, telephone service, copy and fax services, and miscellaneous office supply charges.

“Calvert County is excited to partner with CSM, “ said David Hale, president, BOCC. “The partnership with CSM is a win-win situation. It reduces the need for a significant capital investment while serving the needs of our business community. Further, the incubator creates a strong link between economic development and the development of a successful entrepreneurial community in Calvert County”

“Calvert County is on the forefront of expanding small business opportunities within the community,” said Alan Kutz, vice president, Entrepreneur and Leadership Center, CSM. “The college is thrilled to partner with the County, helping them foster entrepreneurial growth within the community.”

Information will be available through CSM regarding entry and exit policies. CSM and Calvert County will solicit applicants from the community.

The College of Southern Maryland is a regionally-accredited community college that provides programs and services with a special focus on local workforce development to maintain and grow a healthy economy and community.

For more information, please contact the Calvert County Department of Economic Development, 410.535.4583, or CSM, 301-934-7766, 301-870-3008 or 301-884-8131, Ext. 7766 or visit www.csmd.edu

For more information on the Calvert County, Maryland Department of Economic Development, our visitor sites and attractions and the services available to assist County businesses, call 410.535.4583, 800.331.9771 or 301.855.1880; or send an e-mail to info@ecalvert.com