Economic Development Office plans $75K grant for Annapolis minority businesses

The Economic Matters Committee of Annapolis convened on April 16, 2025, to discuss various initiatives aimed at enhancing the local business environment and addressing ongoing challenges within the city’s economic development framework. The meeting, led by small minority business enterprise liaison Hope Stewart, highlighted several key updates and proposals.

Stewart opened the session by reporting a steady vacancy rate in Annapolis, which remains low compared to national averages. She expressed optimism about new businesses opening in the area, including a ribbon-cutting event for "Vintage by Vintage Vibe Finds" scheduled for the following day. Additionally, she noted a recent opening of "Blowfish Pokey" at City Dock, which she praised for its quality.

A significant focus of the meeting was the approval of a $75,000 grant agreement for the Inclusive Ventures program, managed by the Anne Arundel Economic Development Corporation. Alderman Gaye, who initiated the grant proposal, emphasized the importance of this funding for supporting minority businesses and expressed a desire to collaborate further on economic development initiatives.

The committee also addressed ongoing permitting issues that have hindered business openings in downtown Annapolis. Stewart acknowledged the complexities of the permitting process and the need for clearer communication to assist new business owners. She announced plans for a "small business permitting innovation package" aimed at streamlining the application process and reducing the time it takes for businesses to receive necessary permits.

Alderman Savage raised concerns about the budget and the potential for further investment in the maritime trades apprenticeship program, which has seen initial funding of $50,000. The committee discussed the importance of a skilled workforce to attract maritime businesses to the area.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on the need for improved staffing within the Office of Planning and Zoning, which currently operates with limited personnel. The committee expressed a commitment to addressing these staffing challenges to better support local businesses.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city’s ongoing efforts to foster a supportive environment for economic growth, particularly for minority-owned enterprises and the maritime industry. The committee plans to continue these discussions in future meetings, with a focus on implementing the proposed changes to the permitting process and enhancing collaboration with local business groups.