May is recognized nationally as Small Business Month — a time to celebrate the entrepreneurs, innovators, and local businesses that help drive our economy, create jobs, and strengthen our communities. In Charles County, that celebration culminated with Business Appreciation Week 2026, a week dedicated to recognizing the businesses that continue to invest, grow, and thrive here.
Charles County is home to more than 18,000 small businesses employing over 33,000 people, demonstrating the significant role small businesses play in supporting the county’s economy and quality of life. Economic development efforts also continue to deliver measurable impact. According to the Maryland Economic Development Association’s (MEDA) annual study, every dollar invested in county economic development efforts generates an estimated $9.18 in state and local tax revenue, highlighting the strong return on investment these efforts provide for local communities.
Throughout the month and during Business Appreciation Week, the Charles County Economic Development Department (EDD), alongside Circle of Services partners, elected officials, and stakeholders, had the opportunity to celebrate local businesses, strengthen relationships, and provide valuable resources to the business community.
The week included ribbon-cutting celebrations, the Charles County Board of Commissioners’ official proclamation of Business Appreciation Week, EDD’s Business Wellness Workshop at the College of Southern Maryland, Business Ambassador visits across the county, and a networking mixer hosted at The Space by LBI Collective.
Attended by more than 50 business professionals, the Business Wellness Workshop focused on practical tools, expert insights, and networking opportunities for entrepreneurs and business leaders. The event featured presentations on financing, federal contracting, business networking, automation, and technology adoption, along with a fireside chat featuring Jim Chandler, CEcD, Director of EDD, and James Vasquez, Regional Director of the Maryland SBDC Southern Region.
One of the highlights of the week was the Business Ambassador visits, where EDD staff, elected officials, Circle of Services partners, and stakeholders visited businesses throughout Charles County to personally thank owners and employees, learn more about their operations, and better understand the opportunities and challenges facing local businesses today.
Business Ambassador teams visited:
This year’s visits also provided an opportunity to celebrate important milestones within the local business community, including Modern Door & Equipment celebrating 40 years in business. Their continued growth and long-standing investment in Charles County reflect the strength, resilience, and commitment of the businesses that help shape our local economy.
As National Small Business Month comes to a close, EDD encourages residents, partners, and businesses to continue supporting local businesses year-round. From small startups and family-owned businesses to expanding companies and regional employers, these businesses help drive innovation, create jobs, and strengthen the Charles County community every day.
Looking for more ways to support local businesses in Charles County? Visit With Love From Charles to discover and shop local businesses, restaurants, experiences, and makers throughout the county.
EDD remains committed to fostering partnerships and supporting the businesses that make Charles County a great place to live, work, and thrive.