Major Milestone Reached with Tech Park Incubator

County Secures $1.2M State Grant

Dorchester County Council President Jay L. Newcomb applauded Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley and the Board of Public Works (BPW) for approving a $1.2 million for construction of Innovation Crossroads, the Eastern Shore’s first, full-service incubator and anchor tenant of the new Regional Technology Park. Funds were authorized by the Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development (DBED) and approved last month by the BPW in a unanimous vote.

“On behalf of my fellow council county residents and our business community, I applaud Governor O’Malley, BPW and DBED for joining Dorchester County in developing a 21^st century economy to create jobs for today, and jobs for tomorrow, by investing in Innovation Crossroads. Their actions validate the years of planning and preparation our community has devoted to this critical initiative and paves the way for entrepreneurs here – and throughout the region – to realize their business dreams in Dorchester.

Originally proposed in 2007 following a comprehensive study of the needs and opportunities for a stand-alone incubator, plans were suspended due to the recession. After improving market conditions demonstrated both viability and need for a comprehensive incubator program serving Eastern Shore, the county requested the State’s assistance to release targeted economic development funds originally designated, but unused, for Phase I.

Keasha Haythe, Dorchester’s Economic Development Director, initiated work on the Tech Park shortly after her appointment in 2008. She worked with elected officials to advocate for awarding the original funds for Phase II construction.  “Dorchester County is a hub of new economy ideas and opportunities. From food science and environmental restoration to supply chain management for technology companies, we want entrepreneurs to create their economic future in the heart of the Chesapeake,” Haythe said.

For information on Innovation Crossroads, or to obtain a copy of the new tech park sales brochure, contact Haythe at 410-228-0155.