text: Governor's Office of Small, Minority & Women Business Affairs sent this bulletin at 11/01/2019 09:15 AM EDT
  Small Biz Bulletin - November 2019
  Are you creating great products and services? You can dramatically increase your chances of success if you start by identifying a problem. Your evaluation of the problem needs to determine several factors. Is the problem prevalent to a sizeable customer group, is the issue growing in intensity, does a sense of urgency exist?, Would it be expensive if you don't address it, and is the issues mandated by polices or regulations. Does it occur with frequency? As you go through the process of innovation, design, and development, examine each of these factors thoroughly. Customer choice has never been greater. The best way to differentiate yourself is by building products and offering services that effectively solve problems. That's the reason customers will choose you.
  LG Rutherford Receives the Legacy in Leadership Award
  Congratulations to Lt. Governor Boyd K. Rutherford, recipient of the 2019 Legacy in Leadership Award. The award was presented by Special Secretary Jimmy Rhee during the 38th Annual Leaders & Legends Awards Ceremony hosted by the Capital Region Minority Supplier Development Council. The program celebrates individuals and companies who are committed to minority economic development, and recognized the Top 100 Minority Business Enterprises that inspire communities through entrepreneurial accomplishments.
  Legacy in Leadership Award
  Small Businesses Incentivized to be Cyber Secure
  According to the U.S. National Cyber Security Alliance, the average cost for a small business to clean up from a cyber attack is nearly $700,000. Prevention is the best strategy. In 2018, Maryland launched a program to help small businesses protect themselves. The Buy Maryland Cybersecurity Tax Credit encourages small businesses to purchase cybersecurity technologies and services from qualified Maryland companies, and offers a tax credit for 50 percent of the purchases price. Visit the Maryland Department of Commerce to learn more.
  Ready, Set, GROW! Visits Allegany County
  Congratulations to Greyeyes Supply Company, LLC, Firefly Farm, and Full Circle Solutions, recent recipients of a Governor's Citation for their outstanding contributions to Maryland's small business community. The citations were presented during the Ready, Set, GROW! Procurement Connections Workshop held at Rocky Gap Casino Resort. Participants met with buyers from seven state agencies and learned tips for navigating the procurement process.
  Most training and business development programs take place outside the office. We maintain a robust calendar of events on our website. It's updated regularly, so be sure to check back often. Here are just a few upcoming events: