Business Monthly
by Mark R. Smith, Senior Writer
July 26, 2024

With Savage Mill nearing 100% occupancy, the Maryland Women’s Business Center has expanded its retail incubator program, MWBC Shop Local, at the destination. The new location reflects MWBC’s commitment to lowering barriers entrepreneurs encounter and will serve as a launchpad for small businesses in the community.

Located on the first level of the New Weave Building at 8600 Foundry Street, MWBC Shop Local will offer two six-month cohorts annually. In partnership with the Mill and the Howard County Economic Development Authority, cohort participants will share a dedicated retail location and receive comprehensive technical assistance with the goal of testing a concept, creating a customer base and scaling up.

Cohort participants will also host “maker” events, providing the public with an opportunity to meet the artisans behind the businesses. These events will feature live demonstrations and interactive sessions, allowing attendees to learn about their processes and gain a deeper knowledge of their craftsmanship and the stories behind their businesses.

The Savage Mill complex features historic buildings that house major collector-quality antique centers, home furnishing stores, craft galleries, artist studios, specialty shops, destination restaurants and banquet facilities. During the past 30 years, the Mill has become synonymous with shopping small and local, which will provide synergies for the new MWBC location.

Launched in 2019 at Rockville Town Square, MWBC Shop Local equips participants with tools and resources including one-on-one consulting, targeted training sessions, peer-to-peer networking, retail management skill development and financial assistance.

For more information, visit mwbcshoplocal.com and follow @mwbcshoplocal and @mwbcshoplocal.howardcounty on Instagram.

Read original press release: https://bizmonthly.com/news/business/retail/2024/07/mwbc-expands-retail-incubator-program-to-savage-mill/

MWBC Shop Local is a retail incubator program of the Maryland Women’s Business Center. Learn more about MWBC Shop Local: https://mwbcshoplocal.com/