As 2026 approaches, Charles County is preparing for a year filled with new opportunities for businesses, residents, and community partners. Charles County’s Circle of Services—a support system of local, regional, and state partners—ensures businesses have access to the resources, support, and connections they need to thrive. As we prepare for the new year, we’re highlighting the key partners that This list represents just a few of the many partners supporting our business community.
Charles County Chamber of Commerce
The Charles County Chamber of Commerce brings together businesses, industries, nonprofits, and professionals to enhance the county’s economic, civic, and cultural climate. The Chamber serves as a credible voice for the local business community and provides meaningful opportunities for engagement. Membership connects business leaders to advocacy efforts, leadership development, and one of the most effective networking systems in Charles County.
Charles County Government
Charles County Government is committed to connecting residents and businesses with essential countywide services, including emergency management, environmental resources, health and human services, and much more. The county government works closely through its Economic Development Department to streamline processes and offer guidance that helps businesses navigate regulations and access important programs. This partnership ensures that businesses receive the support they need to operate and grow within Charles County.
College of Southern Maryland
The College of Southern Maryland (CSM) plays a pivotal role in developing the region’s talent pipeline through education, workforce programs, and community partnerships. As the operator of the 13,000-square-foot Velocity Center at Indian Head, CSM provides a collaborative environment for learning, innovation, and professional development supporting STEM education, makerspace access, workforce training, and programs that connect students and entrepreneurs with opportunities. Through its ongoing commitment to education and workforce development, CSM is helping shape the future of Charles County’s workforce and supporting continued economic growth.
Maryland Department of Commerce
The Maryland Department of Commerce is focused on helping businesses start, expand, and thrive across the State of Maryland. The Maryland Department of Commerce provides Charles County businesses with vital support that includes site selection, expansion guidance, financial assistance programs, tax credits, workforce training resources, business consulting, and international trade services. Partnerships with the Maryland Department of Commerce can help businesses strengthen their competitiveness, explore global markets, and access opportunities that foster both job creation and long-term economic development.
Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD)
The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) strengthens communities through investments in placemaking, housing, small business development, infrastructure, and broadband. Working with local governments, nonprofits, and private-sector partners, DHCD works to provide safe and affordable housing and create connected places. In Charles County, this work supports a variety of housing options from village-style communities and family-friendly neighborhoods to rural relaxation and waterfront homes, so residents of all ages and stages can find a place to call home in Charles County.
Maryland Department of Labor
The Maryland Department of Labor provides programs and training to help residents gain the skills needed for Maryland’s evolving economy. The Department of Labor supports Charles County by connecting residents to good jobs, protecting workers and consumers, assisting businesses, and fostering economic growth and competitiveness.
Maryland APEX Accelerator
The Maryland APEX Accelerator (formerly the Maryland Procurement Technical Assistance Center) helps businesses navigate government contracting at the federal, state, and local levels. Funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the Department of Defense, the Maryland APEX Accelerator provides the knowledge and support companies need to obtain and successfully perform government contracts. Located within a 40-minute drive of key federal labs and military installations, Charles County offers businesses easy access to clients, suppliers, and government agencies. This strategic location, combined with the Western Charles County Technology Corridor, highlights the county’s commitment to innovation and its thriving defense, technology, research and development, and energetics sectors.
Maryland Small Business Development Center, Southern Region
The Maryland Small Business Development Center (SBDC), Southern Region, provides no-cost training and confidential business consulting to support entrepreneurs and existing businesses. Serving Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s Counties, the SBDC helps local companies to launch, grow, and succeed. Charles County businesses are encouraged to connect with the SBDC to access these valuable resources and services.
Maryland Technology Development Corporation (TEDCO)
The Maryland Technology Development Corporation (TEDCO) provides funding, resources, and connections to help early-stage technology and life sciences companies thrive. Technology businesses are central to the Western Charles County Technology Corridor, a hub for innovation and collaboration that fosters growth, advances cutting-edge solutions, and strengthens the region’s technology sector. TEDCO supports economic empowerment by investing in and growing Maryland’s technology companies, bolstering Charles County’s critical industry sector.
Military Alliance Council (MAC)
The Military Alliance Council (MAC) creates connections between the Town of Indian Head, the greater Southern Maryland community, and the military community at Naval Support Facility Indian Head. They work with leaders from local government and business communities, as well as base leadership to forge a strong and mutually beneficial relationship.
Southern Maryland Minority Chamber of Commerce
The Southern Maryland Minority Chamber of Commerce (SMMCOC) unites community-based organizations across the southern region to support minority business owners. In collaboration with the CCMBA, SMMCOC created the Southern Maryland Virtual Business and Resources Center (SMVBRC) to educate and empower local businesses in the Southern Maryland region.
The Patuxent Partnership
The Patuxent Partnership brings together government, industry, and academia to advance education, technology, and workforce development. Through STEM initiatives, speaker programs, networking, and technology transfer, the Partnership supports the region’s innovation ecosystem. Charles County Public Schools complements these efforts by offering a future-focused curriculum emphasizing STEM, cybersecurity, robotics, and coding, preparing students to meet the workforce demands of nearby federal and military installations, including Naval Support Facility Indian Head.
Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland - Southern Maryland JobSource
The Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland - Southern Maryland JobSource provides job seekers with the tools and resources they need to connect with employment opportunities. Through its four Southern Maryland American Job Centers and the Mobile Career Center, JobSource delivers career services in Charles County, helping residents access training, technology, and guidance to prepare for and secure good jobs.
As Charles County prepares for the year ahead, our Circle of Services partners continue to be a powerful network dedicated to business success, talent development, and the advancement of Charles County’s community. These partners strengthen the county’s economic landscape and ensure that businesses and residents have the support they need to thrive in 2026 and beyond.
