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Here is a list of upcoming events hosted by the Chesapeake Ag. Innovation Center. We are excited to invite you to participate and join us.
The Edge Accelerator is an industry-agnostic program that is open to all entrepreneurs and industries. The 2023 cohort will include a special focus on businesses in AgTech, AgBio, AquaTech, CleanTech and the like industries!
The Edge Accelerator drives start-up formation, entrepreneurial development, and small business expansion. This 12-week program is an intensive, boot-camp style course aimed at revving the start-up learning curve.
Entrepreneurs who step up to the Edge get access to weekly classes covering all aspects of business development, community business leader mentors, focus groups, and an online portal packed with additional educational resources. All classes are led by local business leaders and entrepreneurs and cover important business skills including pitching, creating a solid business model, understanding customer segmentation, and go-to-market strategy.
FITCI is proud to support our fellow citizens in Frederick County and across Maryland. To make economic inroads that strengthen this greater ecosystem, we have teamed up with Eastern Shore Entrepreneurship Center (ESEC) to create Viaduct, a channel for Reinforcing Pathways to Commercialization Across Maryland. Viaduct supports the next generation of industry-leading companies by increasing connectivity and resources to drive entrepreneurs and their businesses toward commercialization.
Mini-Grants up to $5,000 are available for:
– Market Research and Validation of Target Market
– Customer Acquisition
– Product Development Initiatives
– Food Safety Classes
Eligibility
Value-added producers and companies with traction ($20,000 or more in yearly revenue) in Maryland and Delaware are eligible to apply for Mini-Grants. Participants may apply once for each of the categories. Applicants must demonstrate that they have a unique and differentiated product or service that incorporates an aspect of innovation or technology in its production, processing, distribution, or other element of the food supply system.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Award decisions will be made and funds will be available no later than three weeks following the receipt of a completed application.
Application Process
Applicants must submit Mini-Grant proposals by filling out the form at this link. Copy(ies) of quote(s), proposal(s), estimate(s), or any other supporting documents.
CAIC offers access to Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) who can offer authoritative advice based on their deep knowledge and experience in a specific area. See the ADVISORS page of this Web site to learn more about the SMEs who are available to CAIC participants.