Garrett County Business Development has released its Fiscal Year 2026 Annual Report, highlighting the Department’s efforts to support local businesses, encourage investment, promote available resources, and strengthen the County’s economy.
During the fiscal year, the Department conducted 163 business visits to better understand the needs, challenges, and opportunities facing local employers. These conversations help the Department provide responsive assistance, connect businesses with resources, and identify issues affecting business growth and retention.
The Department also continued its business recognition and outreach efforts, celebrating 34 ribbon cuttings and 14 business milestones. In addition, 237 businesses were featured through the Department’s Business Social Spotlight program, and 17 Business B.E.A.R. podcast episodes were produced. Forty-six new business licenses were issued during the fiscal year.
County incentive and reimbursement programs supported continued business investment and marketing activities. Twenty-nine businesses participated in the County Business Property Tax Incentive Program. The Small Business Marketing Grant Program awarded 47 grants totaling $44,261.08, supporting projects with a combined cost of $73,540.14. The Agriculture Marketing Grant Program awarded six grants totaling $5,553.32 toward projects valued at $10,850.80.
The report also highlights several major projects and business expansions, including:
- Garrett County’s purchase of approximately 166 acres along U.S. Route 219 at Keysers Ridge for future business park development
- Completion of the 50,000-square-foot speculative building and access road improvements at Keysers Ridge Business Park
- Completion of CPV Backbone Solar, Maryland’s largest utility-scale solar project
- Continued development of the Hemlock Grove housing project in Grantsville
- Mountain Laurel Medical Center’s expansion into its new Grantsville facility
- Redevelopment of the McHenry Business Park spec building by Stash Properties
Agriculture remained an important part of Garrett County’s economy and community. Local agricultural programs supported food access, farmers markets, community initiatives, and agricultural investment. Reported results included 1,349 produce boxes distributed, $94,663 reinvested locally through the HEART program, more than $585,000 in Mountain Fresh Farmers Market sales, and $516,146 supporting seven active agricultural grants.
“One of Garrett County’s greatest strengths is its people,” said Business Development Manager Kim Durst. “Our businesses are built on trust, collaboration, and a shared commitment to the community. The Department is proud to support that spirit by connecting resources, celebrating milestones, encouraging investment, and helping strengthen the County’s economy for the future.”
The complete Fiscal Year 2026 Annual Report provides additional information about Garrett County’s business assistance programs, economic development projects, major employers, demographics, and agricultural economy.
