Business Resources

Cyber Howard Accelerator

Building the Future of Cybersecurity in Howard County

The Cyber Howard Accelerator, led by the Howard County Economic Development Authority (HCEDA), is designed to support early-stage cybersecurity companies. This program provides mentorship, funding connections and technical resources to help entrepreneurs refine their products, scale operations and secure investment.

Howard County is neighboring the U.S. Cyber Command, NSA and leading defense contractors, making it one of the most strategic locations for cybersecurity startups. The Cyber Howard Accelerator strengthens the region’s innovation ecosystem by helping companies establish a strong foundation for long-term success.

Key Benefits:

Expert mentorship from experienced cybersecurity, business and investment professionals

Hands-on support in product development, market strategy and scaling operations

Access to industry networks, government agencies and potential investors

Testing environments, compliance guidance and strategic business coaching

Preparation for investor engagement, contract procurement and market expansion

The accelerator is designed for early-stage cybersecurity startups that are ready to transition from concept to commercialization.

Download the 12-Week Milestone guideline

Eligibility Requirements:

Applicants must be U.S.-based companies.
Applicants must have a cybersecurity-focused product (software or hardware) designed and developed by their own company; third-party or resold products are not eligible.
If the product is not yet ready, a demonstrable prototype will be accepted with clear market research and a defined go-to-market timeline.
Applicants must be able to commit to participate at least 10 of the 12 weekly in-person sessions (weekly 2-hour meetings).

Applications are open through March 31, 2026, with cohort activities beginning in April 2026.

Apply Today!

Program Overview

Regardless of business type or stage, the HCEDA and the Maryland Department of Commerce offer equitable funding for your enterprise, whether you’re a growth-oriented small businesses looking for low interest loans or a startup seeking capital to commercialize new technological advancements.

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Who Should Apply

Regardless of business type or stage, the HCEDA and the Maryland Department of Commerce offer equitable funding for your enterprise, whether you’re a growth-oriented small businesses looking for low interest loans or a startup seeking capital to commercialize new technological advancements.

Learn More

Graduation and Next Steps

Regardless of business type or stage, the HCEDA and the Maryland Department of Commerce offer equitable funding for your enterprise, whether you’re a growth-oriented small businesses looking for low interest loans or a startup seeking capital to commercialize new technological advancements.

Learn More

Cyber Howard Accelerator Cohort

Behind every great idea is a strong support system. The Cyber Howard Accelerator brings together experienced mentors, visionary leaders, and talented cohort members who help shape the next generation of cybersecurity companies.

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Bob Zhang

Head of Business Development

bzhang@hceda.org

Areas of Responsibility: Business Engagement, Retention, Cybersecurity/IT, International Initiatives

Bob Zhang leads the business development team at the Howard County Economic Development Authority (HCEDA), focusing on business engagement, retention, and attracting new businesses to the county. He also supports the cybersecurity/IT sector and drives international initiatives by promoting export opportunities and foreign direct investment.

Bob’s professional background includes experience with Fortune 500 companies, IT consulting firms, and the federal government, giving him a deep understanding of various industries. In 2011, he founded his own business to help small and medium-sized enterprises enhance their digital presence. His commitment to public service is evident in his decade-long contributions to Maryland’s diplomacy and international initiatives, recognized by the National Association of Secretaries of State for his outstanding contributions. From 2012 to 2023, Bob served as Commissioner of the Maryland Governor’s Commission on Asian-Pacific American Affairs, where he chaired the business subcommittee. In 2019, he was appointed to the Maryland-Washington DC District Export Council by the U.S. Secretary of Commerce, where he assists local exporters in expanding into global markets.

Bob holds a master’s degree in Applied Information Technology from Towson University and a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Louisiana.

Carey Esslinger

Business Development Lead – Technology and Innovation Initiatives

cesslinger@hceda.org

Areas of Responsibility: Business Retention, Attraction and Expansion, IT, Cybersecurity, Emerging Tech and GovCon/Defense.

Carey Esslinger’s portfolio includes business development, technology and innovation initiatives at the Howard County Economic Development Authority (HCEDA). He also supports the County’s GovCon/Defense, IT/Cybersecurity and Emerging Tech sectors.