Vendors, Sponsors Needed For Veteran-Owned Small Biz Expo In Howard County

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — Vendors and sponsors are needed for Howard County's first Veteran-Owned Small Biz Expo planned for Oct. 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Sponsored by Howard County’s Department of Community Resources and Services’ Office of Veterans and Military Families, the event will be held at the Maryland Innovation Center at 6751 Columbia Gateway Drive in Columbia.

“Our veterans are at the heart and soul of America’s freedom and behind every great military member, is the strength, support, resilience and courage of their family,” said Howard County Executive Calvin Ball. “I encourage all our veterans and active duty and military spouses who own a business to take part in this inaugural event. I also invite all our community members to come out on Oct. 28 and show their support for our veterans and military families, and to thank them for all they have done and continue to do to ensure our country’s freedom.”

Veteran, active duty or military spouse-owned businesses who meet the following requirements to vend, sponsor or feature their business at this year’s event are encouraged to apply:

• Veteran/Military Owned – Businesses owned by veterans, active duty or military spouses
• Howard County Based – Businesses located/based in or near Howard County or business owner residing in Howard County
• Direct to Consumer – Businesses offering goods to sell or services (including artwork and books) to feature at the expo

Interested vendors should complete OVMF’s initial interest form. Once approved by OVMF, the registration fee is $25 per table space. Event sponsorship levels are also available.

“A priority of HCEDA is to foster a culture that values and supports veteran entrepreneurship. They not only support the health of our economy but enrich and sustain our local community,” said Jennifer Jones, HCEDA chief executive officer. “Supporting veteran-owned businesses is an investment in our future and an important way to show our appreciation for the veterans who have served our country.”