Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Awards Over $900,000 in Business Boost Microgrants To Expand Businesses

Awards given to 22 businesses across eight counties and Baltimore City

New Carrollton, MD. – (March 28, 2025) – Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Secretary Jake Day today announced more than $900,000 in Business Boost microgrants to 22 businesses across the state as part of its continued focus to serve as a catalyst for economic development.

“Small businesses are the backbone of Maryland’s economy and these Business Boost grants provide an opportunity for a local enterprise to grow,” said Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Secretary Jake Day. “Successful businesses lead to thriving communities and ensure that Maryland continues on a path of sustained economic prosperity. Congratulations to each of the awardees, and thank you for all you do for communities across our state.”

Business Boost awards are offered through DHCD’s Neighborhood BusinessWorks program and provides applicants with microgrants ranging from $20,000 to $50,000 to support small businesses who need capital for growth and/or expansion opportunities. Grantees are subject to a 45-day local approval process before awards are distributed.

The department will provide $908,162 to 22 businesses across eight counties and Baltimore City that have a well-defined plan to expand operations and positively impact Maryland’s local communities.

Some of these awardees include:

• BGlam Hair in Baltimore City, which will use funds to expand its salon to include 25 suites for local entrepreneurs, a classroom for teaching financial literacy, podcast opportunities, and community events.
• La Patrona Market and Carry Out in Prince George’s County, which will expand from a current food truck into its first brick-and-mortar commercial space to bring much needed fresh food options to the community via a food market and carry-out that will highlight local Hispanic and Black-owned brands.
• Mountain City Center for the Arts in Allegany County, where funding will help with new operating costs to help increase enrollment, provide more opportunities for quality arts education, and to provide more job opportunities for local professional artists and educators.
• Sublime Soul in Charles County. The award will assist with renovations, buy equipment, and hire new employees.
• The Night Watch Childcare in Wicomico County. Funding will support childcare services for parents looking to advance their career with online college, GED/High School, or apprenticeship. The funds would pay for computers, staff, and coaches to support academics or career navigation.

More information about Neighborhood BusinessWorks programs and how we support local businesses can be found on DHCD’s website.

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