Queen Anne’s County Economic & Tourism Development, in partnership with the Maryland Small Business Development Center (SBDC), has launched two business accelerator programs designed to equip entrepreneurs and business owners with the tools, strategies, and mentorship needed to scale their businesses. The Ignite Business Accelerator is designed for startups and early-stage businesses, and the Elevate Business Accelerator is for scaling and established businesses.
Both programs will be led by internationally certified business coach Russell Teeter and will take place at the Queen Anne’s County Family YMCA. The accelerators will incorporate group coaching, peer-to-peer advising, access to exclusive resources, and one-on-one mentoring opportunities.
“We are thrilled to bring this program to Queen Anne’s County and offer our entrepreneurs and business owners this incredible resource,” says Heather Tinelli, Director of Queen Anne’s County Economic & Tourism Development.
The Ignite Business Accelerator begins April 1st and concludes May 20th. Sessions will be held for 8 weeks on Tuesday evenings from 5:30pm-8:30pm. This program is designed for entrepreneurs in the early stages of business development or those contemplating starting a business. Participants will develop and refine their entrepreneurial vision into a comprehensive launch plan, draft a financing proposal for access to capital, and create a 4-minute pitch to secure funding through loans, grants, or investors. The investment for participants is $45 for this program.
The Elevate Business Accelerator consists of two six-hour weekday sessions on May 6th and May 13th. This accelerator is designed for business owners generating $50,000+ in annual revenue who are looking to scale their operations, increase profitability, and build long-term equity. Participants will work towards creating strategic improvements that drive sustainable growth. Business owners will develop effective financial and operational processes to increase revenue, enhance efficiency, and prepare for future expansion or exit strategies. The investment for the Elevate Business Accelerator is $85 per participant.
Businesses based in Queen Anne’s County will receive priority consideration for the programs, though businesses located outside of the county who are interested in relocating or expanding to QAC are also invited to apply.
Space in the program is limited, and applications will be considered on a competitive basis. The deadline to apply for the Business Accelerators is March 10th, 2025.
For more information on the program, please visit choosequeenannes.com/accelerators or contact Rebecca Clark, Economic Development Administrator for QACETD, at [email protected]. The Business Accelerators media kit is available online at choosequeenannes.com/accelerators-media-kit.
This initiative is made possible through grant funding from the Upper Shore Regional Council and the Maryland Department of Commerce with development and implementation led by Queen Anne’s County Economic & Tourism Development in partnership with the Small Business Development Center.
About Queen Anne’s County Economic & Tourism Development:
Queen Anne’s County Economic & Tourism Development (QACETD) is dedicated to fostering economic growth, promoting entrepreneurship, and enhancing the quality of life for residents and businesses within Queen Anne’s County. Through strategic initiatives and partnerships, QACETD strives to create a vibrant and sustainable business ecosystem.
Categories: Press Release