ELLICOTT CITY, MD – Howard County Executive Calvin Ball today helped officially open Howard County Economic Development Authority (HCEDA) and Technology Advancement Center’s (TAC) new Cyber Howard Accelerator program. Aimed at cybersecurity focused startups, this program will assist new companies transition from product development to market expansion, and connect them with key industry leaders, investors, and government partners.
“By supporting and fostering the next generation of cutting-edge cyber companies, our Cyber Howard Accelerator program further strengthens Howard County’s position as the premier hub for cybersecurity innovation and entrepreneurship,” said Ball. “In addition to cultivating promising cybersecurity companies, this program also strengthens our local innovation ecosystem, attracts top talent, and fosters connections to key national assets, such as the U.S. Cyber Command and NSA. I want to thank Jennifer Jones, her HCEDA staff, our partners at the Technology Advancement Center, and all our industry leaders, government partners, and entrepreneurs who made this possible.”
Hosted in partnership between HCEDA and the TAC, the Cyber Howard Accelerator is a 12-week intensive initiative designed to target and support early-stage, product-focused cybersecurity companies as they scale their businesses, refine their technologies, and establish a strong market presence. Participating companies may be transitioning from ideation to commercialization or preparing for their next growth phase, whether through sales expansion, product refinement, or investor engagement. Target markets for participants may include DefenseTech, GovCon, dual-use, and commercial industries.
“The Cyber Howard Accelerator is more than a business development program—it is a strategic investment in Howard County’s economic future,” said Jennifer Jones, CEO of the Howard County Economic Development Authority. “By helping early-stage cybersecurity companies scale and succeed, we are fostering job creation, attracting investment and solidifying Howard County as a national destination for cyber innovation and growth.”
“The Technology Advancement Center is proud to serve as the home base for the Cyber Howard Accelerator,” said Gregg Smith, CEO of the TAC. “This program brings together high-potential cybersecurity startups, experienced mentors and industry access in one place. It is designed to accelerate meaningful progress—from product validation to market readiness—and ensure these companies are equipped to succeed in competitive government and commercial environments.”
During the program, each participating company will be split into a cohort consisting of six to eight companies, supported by a dedicated Entrepreneur-in-Residence with expertise in cybersecurity. Participants will receive hands-on support in key areas, including: 1) Product Readiness and Market Validation; 2) Go-to-Market and Business Growth; 3) Investment and Scaling; and 4) Operational Readiness and Business Infrastructure. With access to mentorship, testing environments, and networking opportunities, the program’s goal is to have startup emerge stronger and more competitive in the marketplace.
“I commend Howard County for launching this vital cyber accelerator. By providing startups with critical resources—from procurement support to executive mentorship—the Cyber Howard Accelerator further solidifies the county’s reputation as a premier hub for cybersecurity excellence,” said Kelly Schulz, Chief Executive Officer, Maryland Tech Council. “I look forward to seeing the groundbreaking advancements that emerge from this program and the lasting impact it will have on Maryland’s cyber ecosystem.”
Upon completion of the program, participants will be equipped to sustain operations and may transition to the Howard County’s worldclass Maryland Innovation Center as resident members for further incubation. Program graduates are expected to remain in the county, create jobs, and drive economic growth, further solidifying Howard County’s reputation as a center of cybersecurity excellence.
“Participants in the Cyber Howard Accelerator will gain targeted support to help them refine their products, build real market traction and connect with the resources they need to grow,” said Bob Zhang, Head of Business Development at the Howard County Economic Development Authority. “Whether a company chooses to continue its journey at the Maryland Innovation Center, establish a presence at the Technology Advancement Center or launch independently in Howard County, this program is designed to give them the tools, connections and confidence to take that next step.”
Learn more about the Cyber Howard Accelerator program. For questions about the program, contact Bob Zhang at 410-313-0720 or email bzhang@hceda.org.
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