Saturday, November 26 is Small Business Saturday and the entrepreneurs at MWBC Shop Local, the Maryland Women’s Business Center (MWBC) Retail Incubator Program, are preparing for the busiest shopping season for small businesses.

Created in 2018, Shop Local reduces the obstacles that often prevent entrepreneurs from creating successful and sustainable small businesses. The program offers access to mentors and investors, hands-on experience in visual merchandising, and the ability to set up a brick-and-mortar location for six months in Rockville Town Center at 36D Maryland Avenue.

“We are thrilled to support women and minority entrepreneurs of the Shop Local program through MWBC,” said Bridget Newton, Mayor of the City of Rockville. “The MWBC, a program of Rockville Economic Development Inc. (REDI), is representative of our City’s desire to provide entrepreneurs with the resources they need to start a business. I encourage everyone to shop local this holiday season and support the businesses that call Rockville home.”

“Participating in MWBC Shop Local has been invaluable for growing and defining my business,” said Carly Cottone, Owner of Acid Jayne. “I’ve been able to connect with and form real relationships with community members, get direct product feedback from customers, and experience the unique opportunities and challenges that come with running a brick-and-mortar storefront—all within the supportive environment of the incubator.”

MWBC Shop Local currently features four women entrepreneurs: Acid Jayne, Great Glass Creations, Peacenikco, and Refinished Nest. The unique product offerings from the entrepreneurs at MWBC Shop Local include home décor, wearable and usable art, and handcrafted glass works, ensuring customers find that one-of-a-kind holiday gift. 

For more information about MWBC Shop Local, visit mwbcshoplocal.com, follow @mwbcshoplocal on Instagram, and watch our video about the great items available from this year’s cohort.