Karla, a Fed to Founder, sitting in the MIC working on her laptop.
Business Resources

From Federal Service to Founder Success

Empowering Federal Workers to Build What’s Next

Howard County has long been home to federal talent—and now, it’s where that experience evolves into innovation.

 

Through the Fed to Founder initiative, the Howard County Economic Development Authority (HCEDA) and the Maryland Innovation Center (MIC) help former federal employees and contractors transition from public service to private enterprise. Whether you’ve retired, faced downsizing, or are simply ready for your next chapter, this program connects you with the mentorship, training, and ecosystem support you need to succeed.

 

To date, more than a dozen MIC members have made the leap from clearance to CEO—building new companies that strengthen Howard County’s economy and drive innovation across Maryland.
Quick Links

 

Why Howard County

As the heart of the nation’s cybersecurity corridor and a hub for federal expertise, Howard County provides a unique launchpad for professionals ready to build their own path.

Participants gain access to:

  • One-on-one mentorship with experienced entrepreneurs and industry leaders
  • Training in startup development, business strategy, and commercialization
  • Connections to funding, accelerators, and strategic partners
  • A supportive innovation community that helps ideas grow into thriving businesses

 

Initiatives and Impact

We support transitioning federal workers through a continuum of programs designed to turn experience into entrepreneurship.

Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programs:

  • Fed to Founder: Mentorship and resources that help transitioning federal employees turn their experience into entrepreneurship.
  • Career Fairs and Networking: Opportunities to connect with employers, investors, and peers to expand your professional network.
  • Cyber Howard Accelerator: Empowering cybersecurity founders and startups, including those with federal and defense backgrounds.
  • Pitch & Mingle Series: A high-energy showcase for entrepreneurs to present their ideas and compete for funding and recognition.
  • Market Pulse Pitch Series: Connecting startups with investors and partners in key sectors such as digital health, tech, and innovation.
  • MIC Membership: Access to a collaborative community, mentorship, and resources to help your business grow and scale.
  • BRITE Program: Hands-on training that helps entrepreneurs build a comprehensive and actionable business strategy.
  • Business Resource Expo: Bringing together county agencies, lenders, and business partners to connect entrepreneurs with funding and support.
  • Financial Assistance: Providing access to key funding opportunities such as Catalyst Fund, LIFT Loan, and FLEX Line of Credit, helping businesses at every stage access the capital needed to grow and thrive.

 

Start Your Next Mission

Ready to put your experience to work in a new way? Join the Fed to Founder initiative and take the first step toward launching your own business in one of the most dynamic innovation communities in the country.

Bob Zhang