TEDCO, Maryland’s economic engine for technology companies, announces the publication of the Western Maryland Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR) Grant Program Request for Proposals (RFP). The new program reflects TEDCO’s commitment to advancing inclusive innovation and expanding entrepreneurial opportunities across the state.
“TEDCO remains committed to promoting the continued expansion of a diverse, inclusive and sustainable innovation ecosystem across Maryland,” said Troy LeMaile-Stovall, TEDCO CEO. “Through this most recent RFP, we are hoping to provide additional support to up-and-coming founders and entrepreneurs in Western Maryland.”
The entities selected will host experienced entrepreneurs within local organizations, who will collaborate with TEDCO to ensure EIR activities align with ecosystem goals. These goals include outreach, startup engagement, data collection, reporting and more. Qualified organizations based in Western Maryland—specifically in Washington, Allegany, and Garrett counties—are encouraged to apply.
“Through the Entrepreneur-in-Residence program, we are aiming to embed experienced founders in local organizations, thereby supporting enhanced collaboration, support and innovation across the Western Maryland region,” said Terry Rauh, chief finance and operations officer, TEDCO.
Interested applicants should respond to the detailed RFP, published here. The goal of this RFP is to receive proposals from potential firms, evaluate those submittals and select the one best suited to provide the requested services listed throughout the RFP. All questions regarding the RFP must be submitted in writing to kzuccardi@tedcomd.com by October 24, 2025. All applicants must submit a complete response by 5:00 PM, November 7, 2025.
“The Venture Development department is excited to unveil another avenue for entrepreneurs to learn and connect with the ecosystem,” said Graham Dodge, vice president, Venture Development, TEDCO.
TEDCO’s Commitment to Maryland
TEDCO was created in 1998 by the Maryland State Legislature to facilitate the creation of businesses and support their growth in all regions of the State. TEDCO’s role is to be Maryland’s leading source of funding for early-stage, technology-based businesses; to provide other business assistance to entrepreneurs throughout the State; and to foster technology transfer and commercialization from the State’s universities and Federal labs. TEDCO is leading innovation to market in Maryland and contributing to a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem in the State through its various programs and funds.
The organization has an ambitious vision: TEDCO will be the recognized national leader for supporting translational research, and technology-based, economic, and entrepreneurial development, while being the hub of Maryland’s innovation ecosystem.
Working towards this vision, the organization has been leading innovation to market for more than 27 years, creating nearly $2.7 billion in statewide economic activity, as of 2023. To be a part of the continued journey, learn more about the RFP and how to apply here.
About TEDCO
TEDCO, the Maryland Technology Development Corporation, enhances economic empowerment growth through the fostering of an inclusive entrepreneurial innovation ecosystem. TEDCO identifies, invests in, and helps grow technology and life science-based companies in Maryland. Learn more at www.tedcomd.com.
