Rockville Celebrates Economic Development Week with Business Resource and Awards Event

Rockville Economic Development, Inc. (REDI) and over 100 local business owners and leaders filled the Best Western Plus Rockville yesterday to network and honor standout businesses during the 3rd Annual REDI Resource Meetup (R2M). Held during Maryland’s Economic Development Week, the meetup connected businesses and resources at the local, regional, and state levels, who spent the afternoon exchanging valuable insights and opportunities.

“We’re excited to host this event as we celebrate Economic Development Week in the State of Maryland, and couldn’t be more proud of the local companies that we recognized this evening,” said Laurie Boyer, Executive Director of REDI. “This is a great opportunity for us to provide our resources, and our partners’ resources, to the Rockville business community all in one location.”

R2M also serves as the backdrop for the “Rockin’ in Rockville” awards, which are presented to businesses that contribute significantly to the City’s civic and economic vitality. By combining a robust community outreach program with tremendous employment and revenue growth, Apex Home Loans took home the title award. The independent and community-driven mortgage lender employs over 100 professionals and was recognized earlier this year as a top mortgage employer in the Mid-Atlantic. “We’re so honored to receive the “Rockin’ in Rockville” award,” Apex Chairman, Michael Parsons said. “Rockville sets the stage for our sustained growth, and we look forward to continuing our efforts to drive positive change and homeownership in our community.”

New for this year, the “Rockin’ Retailer” award honors the contributions of independent retailers in creating a unique community. Entering their 13th year of business, Thrive Yoga received the award for being a staple in the area’s wellness scene with over 25,000 enthusiasts having enjoyed their “zen-like” studio, while their employees and customers volunteer together in “Adopt the Stream”, Yoga on the Square, and food drives for Manna Food Center. "Thrive Yoga is thrilled to provide a tranquil sanctuary and community gathering place in Rockville and this recognition will certainly entice more neighbors and friends to get healthy and have fun in Rockville!"

Members of REDI were joined by 11 resource partners, including Maryland Women’s Business Center, City of Rockville, Rockville Chamber of Commerce, Maryland Economic Development Association, and Maryland Department of Commerce.

About Rockville Economic Development, Inc.

Rockville Economic Development, Inc. (REDI) is a 501(c)(3) public-private partnership formed in 1997 by the City of Rockville, Maryland to strengthen and broaden the city’s economic base through business entrepreneurship, expansion, retention, and recruitment programs.

REDI offers guidance and support to help businesses at all stages of growth launch, locate and expand in Rockville. For more information, contact 301-315-8096 or visit www.RockvilleREDI.org.