Members’ Corner: Rachael Kalinyak
Name, Title, Organization:
Rachael Kalinyak, Content Marketing and Communications Coordinator, Maryland Technology Development Corporation (TEDCO)
What are your key priorities within your current position?
As the Content Marketing and Communications Coordinator, I work closely with the Development and Marketing team at TEDCO to support outreach and marketing initiatives. This support includes the creation of internal and external messaging—from the creation of social media posts to creating original and engaging articles to press releases and website content—promoting the company and staff members, building and maintaining relationships, attending events, and more. Through this process, I assist in TEDCO’s mission—to provide funding, resources, and connections to early-stage technology companies in Maryland, supporting their growth and, in turn, assisting in the growth and sustainability of the State’s economy.
Does one particular project spark your excitement? If so, describe it below.
There are so many exciting projects at TEDCO it’s difficult to choose just one. A recent project that I’m very excited for is the recently unveiled Cultivate Maryland initiative. Through this initiative, we can expect Maryland’s competitiveness as an innovation economy to increase, allowing the state to be recognized as a national innovation competitor. The Cultivate project seeks to create an inclusive technology and startup ecosystem throughout Maryland, inevitably causing more of the talented Maryland populace to create and maintain businesses in the State. This initiative is essential not only to promote the growth of Maryland’s economic development but toward creating a successful and sustainable future.
What attributes are unique to your community?
TEDCO’s community encompasses the entirety of Maryland—we are fortunate to be a part of such a diverse, innovative entrepreneurial ecosystem.
What are your locality’s top three “selling points” for future growth?
The locality of TEDCO encompasses the entire state of Maryland, making it difficult to choose just three “selling points” about the area. However, if I had to choose, I would say the top points include diverse populations, innovative minds, and entrepreneurial spirits.
If you could wave a magic wand, what would you want to work with MEDA on to move Maryland forward?
Increasing efforts in diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout the state and ensuring individuals from all backgrounds have access to resources that can help their businesses, themselves, and Maryland thrive.
Please include any personal background information that you’d like to share (Alma mater, Military Service, hobbies, etc):
I grew up in Frederick County and, as a lifelong writer, inevitably graduated with my bachelor’s in writing from Towson University. I enjoy traveling, learning, gaming, and creating (from photography to storytelling to music and anything in between). In my free time, I’m continuously looking for new things to learn about, volunteering to help at archaeological dig sites, and looking for new ways to make a difference in the community. Currently, I’m a member of MEDA and the MEDA Young Leaders, where I look forward to learning more about new projects and initiatives throughout the state, connecting with other professionals, and learning more about economic development in Maryland.
