Business Startup, Small Business & Entrepreneurship Assistance and Grants for Single Mothers in Maryland

Last updated: September 2025

Audience: Maryland single mothers who want to start, fund, or grow a small business

Emergency help first

If you’re in crisis or at risk of losing housing, utilities, or child care, use these lines now so you have breathing room to work on your business plan.

• Emergency referral line: Dial 211 from any phone in Maryland for 24/7 help with shelter, food, utilities, child care, legal aid, and mental health. If 211 doesn’t connect on your phone, use backup regional numbers — 1-866-770-1910 (Southern/Capital), 1-866-406-8156 (Central), 1-866-231-7101 (Eastern Shore), 1-866-411-6803 (Western MD). Learn more at 211 Maryland. (211md.org)
• Energy shutoff or huge arrears: Maryland’s Office of Home Energy Programs can help. Income limits for FY26 start at monthly $2,608\ast \ast forahouseholdof1and\ast \ast$3,525 for 2; arrearage grants can be up to $2,000\ast \ast forelectricand\ast \ast$1,000 for gas if you owe $300+. Find your local office and apply online. OHEP overview, income/arrearage details, local office directory. (dhs.maryland.gov)
• Child care costs while you launch: Maryland’s Child Care Scholarship is temporarily frozen for new enrollments as of May 1, 2025. You can still apply; approved families are placed on a Frozen Status List and notified when funding opens. Call 877-227-0125 for questions. Details and updates here: MSDE announcement, program page. (news.maryland.gov, earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)

Quick help box

• File your LLC now: Use Maryland Business Express to file online; Articles of Organization fee is typically $100\ast \ast .Rushoptionsexist—onlinerushreviewfeecommonly\ast \ast$325; in‑person 2‑hour rush review remains $425 for certain filings. Verify current fees and timelines before paying. (egov.maryland.gov, bizmonthly.com)
• **Avoid the annual $300\ast \ast feeifeligible\ast \ast :EnrollyourbusinessinthestateretirementprogramMarylandSavesorcertifyaqualifiedplanby\ast \ast December31\ast \ast torequesta\ast \ast$300 Annual Report fee waiver for the next year. Form and rules here: MarylandSaves fee waiver. (marylandsaves.org)
• Talk to a free advisor: The Maryland Small Business Development Center lead office is at UMD. Call 301-403-8300 to be routed to your region, or pick your region at Maryland SBDC. (2025mdmanual.msa.maryland.gov)
• Find working‑capital loans and microgrants: DHCD’s Neighborhood BusinessWorks lends up to $5,000,000\ast \ast ;BusinessBoostmicrograntshaveranged\ast \ast$20,000–$50,000 (rounds open and close). Start at DHCD Business Lending. (dhcd.maryland.gov)
• Child care provider or center owner: No‑interest capital loans available through the Child Care Capital Support Revolving Loan Fund. (commerce.maryland.gov)
• Government contracts fast‑track: Get free MBE/DBE certification (average 3–4 months), register in the Small Business Reserve, and sign up in eMaryland Marketplace Advantage to see bid notices. Contacts below. (mdotombe.mattstraffin.com, marylandtaxes.gov, mdprocurement.freshdesk.com)

Quick reference cheat sheet

The fastest path to legal, fundable, and contract‑ready

Start with the highest‑impact steps. Each step includes exact Maryland links, fees, contacts, and a fallback plan.

Step 1 — Register your business and secure your name

• Action: File online at Maryland Business Express. The Articles of Organization fee is generally $100\ast \ast .Rushreviewonlineisoften\ast \ast$325; in‑person 2‑hour rush review is $425 for certain paper filings. Online filings update fastest; paper can take weeks. (egov.maryland.gov, bizmonthly.com)
• Tip: If you will sell retail goods, you’ll likely need a Trader’s License (see Step 3). You can still form the LLC first.
• Plan B: If you can’t afford rush, file standard and use the confirmation email to start opening vendor accounts while it processes. Check SDAT processing options and contact SDAT at 410-767-1330 for status if needed. (dat.maryland.gov)

Step 2 — Get tax accounts and a free sales & use license

• Action: Apply for the Maryland Combined Registration online to obtain a Sales & Use Tax account, employer withholding (if hiring), and more. Start at the Comptroller’s portal and select “Register a Business in Maryland.” Phone help: 410-767-1543. (interactive.marylandtaxes.gov, marylandtaxes.gov)
• Documents: EIN (unless sole proprietor with sales‑only), owner ID, business address, NAICS, expected start date.
• Plan B: One‑time event sellers can request a temporary license by phone at the same numbers if you’re testing your concept first. (marylandtaxes.gov)

Step 3 — Make sure you have the right business license

• Action: Retailers need a Trader’s License issued by the Clerk of the Circuit Court in your county. The fee is based on your wholesale inventory value. Common brackets include $15\ast \ast (upto\ast \ast$1,000), $65\ast \ast (\ast \ast$10,001–$15,000\ast \ast ),and\ast \ast$300 ($100,001–$150,000), plus a $2 issuing fee. See your county clerk page for the full chart. (mdcourts.gov)

Trader’s License fee snapshots

Source: county clerk business license pages (fees are uniform outside Baltimore City). (mdcourts.gov)

• Plan B: If your business is services‑only, you may not need a Trader’s License. Confirm any professional or home‑improvement licensing that applies with your county clerk page. (mdcourts.gov)

Step 4 — Open your funding lanes and line up capital

Maryland has multiple public programs built to serve borrowers who don’t fit big‑bank checklists. Use them in this order if you’re building from a tight budget.

• Neighborhood BusinessWorks (NBW)
  • What to know: Loans for startups/expansion, buildouts, equipment, and even property acquisition in Sustainable Communities and Priority Funding Areas. Typical maximum $5,000,000\ast \ast ;termsupto\ast \ast 30years\ast \ast dependingonuse.\ast \ast Applicationandclosingfeestotal\ast \ast$500 ($250\ast \ast +\ast \ast$250). Contact DHCD Business Lending at 301-429-7408. NBW program page. (dhcd.maryland.gov)
  • Grant option: NBW’s Business Boost microgrants have provided $20,000–$50,000 for growth/expansion; rounds open and close. A recent round required a 45‑day local approval process before release of funds. Track Small Business Grants and DHCD news. (dhcd.maryland.gov, news.maryland.gov)
  • Plan B: If your request is under $350,000, start with CDFIs listed under Maryland’s SSBCI; these lenders can blend private match and move quicker for smaller loans. (dhcd.maryland.gov)
• MSBDFA — Maryland Small Business Development Financing Authority (Commerce)
  • What to know: Built for owners facing credit gaps or who are socially/economically disadvantaged. Tools include Contract Financing (up to $2,000,000\ast \ast ),loanguarantees,suretybonding,andequitythroughEPIP.SSBCIdollarscurrentlysupportEPIPloans\ast \ast$25,000–$1,000,000 with a 1:1 private capital match. Start here: MSBDFA and MMG Capital Group. (commerce.maryland.gov, mmgcapitalgroup.com)
  • Reality check: Expect to show a turn‑down or credit gap, provide a full package (tax returns, bank statements, projections), and meet underwriting. Rates and terms vary by product.
  • Plan B: If you have a contract but need cash to start work, ask specifically about the Contract Financing Program and bonding support limits (bond assistance can go up to $5,000,000 in certain cases). (bpw.maryland.gov)
• VLT Small, Minority & Women‑Owned Business Account (via county fund managers)
  • What to know: Funded by 1.5% of casino video lottery terminal revenue; at least half of allocations target areas around the six casinos, with the rest available statewide. Local programs often lend $50,000–$250,000; Anne Arundel’s VOLT Microloan offers up to $50,000\ast \ast atafixed\ast \ast 2.00$50,000–$250,000. Connect through your local economic development office or the fund managers listed by Commerce. (governor.maryland.gov, aaedc.org, countycouncil.baltimorecountymd.gov)
  • Plan B: If your county’s fund is tapped out, check another participating fund manager serving your area (several lend statewide).
• SBA Microloan (through nonprofit intermediaries)
  • What to know: Up to $50,000, typical interest 8%–13%, up to 7 years. Great for inventory, equipment, launch costs. Find authorized microlenders serving Maryland via the SBA list; examples in Maryland include Baltimore‑based CDFIs with microloan products and LEDC for Montgomery/PG counties. Start at the SBA list and contact the lender that serves your county. (sba.gov)
  • Examples: Baltimore Community Lending posts startup “Emerging” loans $10,000–$50,000 at 7.25%–9.25%; Baltimore Business Lending’s microloans are $10,000–$50,000 at a fixed 9.25%; LEDC lists microloans and small business loans up to $250,000 with terms up to 10 years. Check service areas and current rates. (bclending.org, baltimorebusinesslending.org, ledcmetro.org)
• Child care providers (home day care or centers)
  • What to know: The Child Care Capital Support Revolving Loan Fund offers no‑interest loans for capital improvements if you participate in the Child Care Scholarship program. This can help you open/expand a licensed child‑care business. See eligibility and apply at Commerce. (commerce.maryland.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Try a smaller ask: Under $50,000 requests often move faster with CDFIs.
• Stack programs: Pair NBW with a local VLT fund or SBA Microloan.
• Use procurement cash flow: If you have a signed contract, MSBDFA’s Contract Financing can bridge payroll and materials while you invoice. (mmgcapitalgroup.com)

Government sales that favor certified small, women, and minority‑owned firms

Step 5 — Get certified and get in the state bid system

• MBE/DBE/ACDBE certification (MDOT OMBE)
  • Action: Apply free; processing averages 3–4 months once your file is complete. Help line 410-865-1269 or 1-800-544-6056; email mbe@mdot.maryland.gov. Workshop calendar and documentation checklists are on the MDOT OMBE site. (mdotombe.mattstraffin.com)
  • Why it matters: State law sets an overall MBE participation goal of 29% of contract dollars. Being in the directory makes primes and agencies find you. (mva.maryland.gov)
• Small Business Reserve (SBR)
  • Action: Self‑certify in eMaryland Marketplace Advantage (eMMA). The SBR program directs agencies to spend at least 15% of eligible procurement with SBR‑registered firms. No fee; must re‑certify annually. (marylandtaxes.gov)
• eMMA vendor registration
  • Action: Create your vendor profile, upload W‑9, and choose UNSPSC codes so you get bid alerts that fit your business. Help desk emma.helpdesk@maryland.gov; vendor how‑to guides are published by DGS. Start at eMMA Vendor Registration QRG. (mdprocurement.freshdesk.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask for no‑cost help: The Maryland APEX Accelerator can walk you through certifications and bid responses. (marylandapex.org)
• Start as a subcontractor: Use your MBE certification to win sub work while you build past performance.

Core startup steps, fees, and realistic timelines

Use this table to avoid hidden costs and surprises.

Child care, time, and stability while you build

• Child Care Scholarship status: New enrollments are frozen as of May 1, 2025. You can apply and be placed on a Frozen Status List. Current families keep benefits if they recertify on time. Update page and hotline 877-227-0125. (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org, news.maryland.gov)
• Capital to open or expand licensed child care: No‑interest loans through the Child Care Capital Support Revolving Loan Fund for licensed providers participating in the scholarship program. Good for renovations, equipment, and expansion. Details and application on Commerce’s site. (commerce.maryland.gov)
• If child care is unaffordable right now: Call 211 for local scholarship leads and interim help; use night/weekend hours for customer acquisition and fulfill orders during nap/after‑bed windows until steady revenue can cover paid care. (211md.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask your lender about delayed draws: Many CDFIs can structure interest‑only periods or delayed first payments while you ramp up clients (varies by lender terms).
• Seek energy bill help to free cash: Apply for OHEP; arrearage relief can wipe $1,000–$2,000 in past‑due balances and free working capital. (dhs.maryland.gov)

Where to get no‑cost 1:1 advice, workshops, and pitch‑ready prep

• Maryland SBDC: Free advising statewide; call the lead center 301-403-8300 to be routed to your region or request counseling online. (2025mdmanual.msa.maryland.gov)
• Maryland Women’s Business Center (Montgomery, Prince George’s, Frederick): Counseling, procurement and child‑care business trainings. Start at Maryland WBC. (marylandwbc.org)
• Maryland Capital Enterprises & Women’s Business Center (Eastern Shore/Baltimore): Training, counseling, and loans to WBC clients. See MCE WBC. (womensbusinesscenteratmarylandcapitalenterprises.org)
• Baltimore Community Lending Small Business Center: Classes, coaching, and loans for Baltimore metro counties. See BCL small business loans. (bclending.org)
• American Job Centers (WIOA): Career services, training providers list, and business services in every county. AJC directory at the Maryland Department of Labor. (labor.maryland.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Tech startup? Apply to TEDCO’s Builder Fund for both capital and executive support (pre‑seed, up to $200,000). (tedcomd.com)
• Research‑heavy idea? Look at SBIR/STTR: NIH Phase I caps updated to $314,363\ast \ast andPhaseIIto\ast \ast$2,095,748; DoD follows the same caps for FY25. Start with NIH SEED and Defense SBIR guides. (grants.nih.gov, defensesbirsttr.mil, seed.nih.gov)

County and regional funding snapshots

• Anne Arundel County: VOLT Microloan up to $50,000 at 2.00% fixed (must meet criteria including accelerator completion). See AAEDC VOLT. (aaedc.org)
• Baltimore County: Boost Fund loans $50,000–$250,000 for startups, improvements, and real estate. See Boost Fund. (countycouncil.baltimorecountymd.gov)
• Howard County: LIFT Microloan $10,000–$30,000 and Catalyst Fund loans; collateral assistance up to $100,000 available for Catalyst borrowers. Start at HCEDA financing options. (howardcountyeda.org)
• Baltimore City: CDFIs like Baltimore Community Lending and Baltimore Business Lending offer microloans ($10,000–$50,000; sample fixed 9.25%). (bclending.org, baltimorebusinesslending.org)
• Montgomery & Prince George’s Counties: LEDC lends and coaches small businesses; loans up to $250,000 posted. Contact LEDC Montgomery team at (202) 540‑7425 or (202) 540‑7430. (ledcmetro.org)

Reality checks, warnings, and timelines

• Grant reality: State and federal startup grants are rare; DHCD’s Business Boost is one of the few and it’s competitive with limited rounds. Prior round closed October 2024. Watch the DHCD page and sign up for alerts. (dhcd.maryland.gov)
• Time to money: Bank loans can take weeks; CDFIs can be faster but still require full documentation; state loans often require environmental, site, and underwriting reviews. NBW microgrant awards have had 45‑day local review before disbursement. (news.maryland.gov)
• Procurement ramp: MBE certification averages 3–4 months after a complete file. Registering in SBR/eMMA is same‑day if your Tax ID passes checks. Set aside weekly time to scan eMMA for bids. (mdotombe.mattstraffin.com, mdprocurement.freshdesk.com)

Common mistakes to avoid

• Missing the Trader’s License: Retailers who formed their LLC but forgot the clerk‑issued license risk fines. Confirm your inventory bracket and budget $15–$800 plus the $2 issuing fee. (mdcourts.gov)
• Overstating revenue on funding apps: Don’t guess. Lenders will pull bank statements and tax transcripts.
• Ignoring payroll or retirement setup: If you hire, register withholding; if you want the $300 SDAT fee waiver, enroll in MarylandSaves or certify a qualified plan by year‑end. (marylandsaves.org)
• Applying for the wrong program size: If you need ≤$50,000, start with microloan/CDFI options. Many state programs want larger projects or match capital.
• Incomplete MBE files: Missing tax returns or bank signatory proof delays certification. Use MDOT’s checklist and consider the free application‑assistance workshops. (mdotombe.mattstraffin.com)

Application checklist

Use this list for state loans, CDFIs, and SBA microloans.

• Photo ID and SSN/EIN: All owners with 20%+.
• Business plan and 12‑month cash flow: Include break‑even and realistic sales ramp.
• 3–12 months of business bank statements: If pre‑revenue, provide personal statements.
• Last 2 years of personal tax returns: If in business, add business returns.
• Entity documents: Articles, Operating Agreement, SDAT good standing.
• Proof of licenses: Sales & Use Tax number and, if retail, Trader’s License.
• Quotes for use of funds: Equipment invoices, contractor bids, or lease LOI.
• Personal financial statement: Assets, liabilities, and monthly obligations.
• Optional: MarylandSaves enrollment proof to reduce annual fee burden. (marylandsaves.org)

Diverse communities

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: FreeState Justice provides legal clinics and advocacy for LGBTQ+ Marylanders (name changes, expungements). This support can help with ID and business bank setup. See FreeState Justice news. (freestate-justice.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: The Division of Rehabilitation Services’ RISE self‑employment program can fund essential tools/assistive tech and provide intensive planning; DORS notes typical direct business support is limited and targeted (often not exceeding $15,000 for specific items, per policy), but counseling and technical assistance are extensive. Start at DORS self‑employment policy. (dors.maryland.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: Register in SBR and ask APEX about VSBE opportunities; pair with MBE if applicable. See SBR basics and APEX coaching links above. (marylandtaxes.gov, marylandapex.org)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: LEDC serves many immigrant entrepreneurs in Montgomery/PG with lending and multilingual technical assistance. Contact (202) 540‑7425 or (202) 540‑7430. (ledcmetro.org)
• Tribal citizens: Use SBDC and AJC networks for training and WIOA funding; watch for federal grant opportunities via SBIR/STTR if pursuing tech.
• Rural single moms: NBW and MSBDFA serve rural counties; check Opportunity Zone microgrant pages for rural targeting and use your regional SBDC (Eastern or Western regions). (dhcd.maryland.gov)
• Single fathers: All programs above are gender‑inclusive; WBCs welcome all at many events. Confirm participation details on each event page.
• Language access: 211, Maryland Health Connection, and many state portals offer language support; use interpreter services if needed. (211md.org, marylandhealthconnection.gov)

Real‑world mini‑scenarios

• Baltimore home baker: Files LLC online (100**), secures Sales & Use Tax account, gets a Trader’s License at her county clerk based on small starting inventory (**15–$65\ast \ast bracket).Shesecuresa\ast \ast$25,000 microloan from a Baltimore CDFI at 8–10% for equipment and packaging, using the SBDC to refine pricing. She then registers in SBR to target state agency events. (mdcourts.gov, bclending.org)
• Prince George’s mobile cleaning service: Owner with limited credit asks MSBDFA for Contract Financing to start a janitorial contract and checks VLT fund managers for a $75,000 working‑capital loan. She also self‑certifies SBR and starts the MBE application to position as a subcontractor. (mmgcapitalgroup.com, governor.maryland.gov)
• Howard County child care expansion: A licensed provider uses the no‑interest Child Care Capital Support loan to build out two new classrooms; because CCS for families is frozen for new applicants, she plans a phased opening and markets to private‑pay families while tracking scholarship update postings. (commerce.maryland.gov, earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)

Quick reference cheat sheet — procurement and certifications

FAQs — Maryland‑specific, with straight answers

How do I reduce the annual SDAT cost while my business is still small?

Answer: Enroll in MarylandSaves or certify you offer another qualified retirement plan by December 31 to get a $300 Annual Report fee waiver for the following year. Submit the waiver form if you use a private plan. Check your waiver status on Maryland Business Express after December 10 each year. (marylandsaves.org)

What’s the fastest path to a real check in hand for equipment or buildout?

Answer: For ≤**$50,000\ast \ast ,applytoalocalCDFImicroloan(e.g.,BaltimoreCommunityLendingorLEDC).Forlargerprojects,NBWcanfinancebuildoutsandproperty,butunderwritingandclosingtakelonger;watchforBusinessBoostmicrograntwindowsfornon‑debtcapital\ast \ast$20,000–$50,000**. (bclending.org, ledcmetro.org, dhcd.maryland.gov)

Is there a Maryland startup grant just for single mothers?

Answer: There isn’t a permanent, statewide grant tied to parenting status. Target broader options: Business Boost microgrants (when open), local VLT funds, and procurement set‑asides (SBR, MBE). (dhcd.maryland.gov, governor.maryland.gov)

What’s the simplest certification sequence for getting state work?

Answer: Register in eMMA, self‑certify SBR, then file your MBE application (free; typical 3–4 months). Use APEX Accelerator coaching if you get stuck. (mdprocurement.freshdesk.com, marylandtaxes.gov, mdotombe.mattstraffin.com)

I sell retail at pop‑ups — do I still need a license?

Answer: You’ll need a Sales & Use Tax account and may need a Trader’s License if you regularly sell goods. One‑time events can sometimes use temporary licensing via the Comptroller. Check your county clerk for Trader’s License rules and fees ($15–$800 plus $2 issuing fee). (marylandtaxes.gov, mdcourts.gov)

Where can I see loan amounts and terms in writing for MSBDFA?

Answer: MSBDFA’s Contract Financing Program posts direct loan limits up to $2,000,000\ast \ast ;SSBCIEPIPloanslist\ast \ast$25,000–$1,000,000 with a required 1:1 match. See Commerce’s MSBDFA page and MMG’s program summaries. (mmgcapitalgroup.com, dhcd.maryland.gov)

I’m building a tech product. Is there non‑dilutive federal money?

Answer: Yes — SBIR/STTR. NIH updated Phase caps to $314,363\ast \ast (PhaseI)and\ast \ast$2,095,748 (Phase II) for FY25; DoD uses the same caps. Start with NIH SEED and Defense SBIR guides. (grants.nih.gov, defensesbirsttr.mil, seed.nih.gov)

Can I still get help paying for child care while I start up?

Answer: New Child Care Scholarship awards are frozen; you can apply and be waitlisted. If you operate a child‑care business, you may qualify for a no‑interest capital loan through the Child Care Capital Support fund. (earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org, commerce.maryland.gov)

What’s the VLT program and do I have to be near a casino?

Answer: The state dedicates 1.5% of casino VLT revenue to loans for small, minority, women‑, and veteran‑owned businesses. At least half goes to businesses near the six casinos; the rest is statewide. Local fund managers administer the loans. (governor.maryland.gov)

Who can help me pick the right training or a grant that fits me?

Answer: Call 211 for immediate human services, your regional SBDC for business planning, and the APEX Accelerator for government contracting. If you’re in Baltimore metro, check BCL’s resource center; on the Eastern Shore, contact MCE WBC. (211md.org, 2025mdmanual.msa.maryland.gov, marylandapex.org, bclending.org, womensbusinesscenteratmarylandcapitalenterprises.org)

What to do when money is still tight

• Use MarylandSaves to reduce fixed costs: The $300 SDAT waiver matters when margins are thin. (marylandsaves.org)
• Swap to lower‑cost capital: If you borrowed high‑interest, ask whether you can refinance into NBW or a VLT fund if you hit milestones.
• Consider state tax credits tied to hiring and location: The state’s Enterprise Zone income tax credit can reach $4,500\ast \ast inYear1(economicallydisadvantagedhiresinfocusareas)withadditionalamountsinYears2–3;standardnewhirecreditis\ast \ast$1,000 (or $1,500 in focus areas). See details and work with your local zone administrator. (labor.maryland.gov)

About this guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: This guide uses official sources from Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development, Maryland Department of Commerce, Maryland SDAT, MSDE, USDA/SBA, and established nonprofits/CDFIs. It follows our Editorial Standards — official sources only, links tested at publication, and policy change updates targeted within 48 hours of confirmation. This site is independent and not a government agency.

Last verified: September 2025

Next review: April 2026

Corrections: Found an error or a broken link? Email info@asinglemother.org.

Disclaimer

Scope: Programs, amounts, fees, and eligibility rules change. Always verify on the official websites and with program staff before applying or spending money.

Security: Do not email Social Security numbers, full bank account numbers, or other sensitive data to anyone claiming to be a lender or state agency. Use official portals linked above and verify email domains ending in .gov or established nonprofits you recognize.

Not legal or tax advice: This guide is for general information. For legal, licensing, or tax decisions, consult a qualified professional.

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Source highlights used in this guide

• Neighborhood BusinessWorks loans and fees: DHCD NBW page and SSBCI terms. (dhcd.maryland.gov)
• Business Boost microgrant amounts and processing: DHCD grants page and March 28, 2025 press release noting $20,000–$50,000 grants and 45‑day local approval prior to awards. (dhcd.maryland.gov, news.maryland.gov)
• MSBDFA programs and limits: Commerce MSBDFA summary, MMG Contract Financing up to $2,000,000, and SSBCI EPIP loan sizes and match. (commerce.maryland.gov, mmgcapitalgroup.com, dhcd.maryland.gov)
• VLT program: State overview and county examples (AAEDC VOLT Microloan at 2.00% fixed; Baltimore County Boost $50,000–$250,000). (governor.maryland.gov, aaedc.org, countycouncil.baltimorecountymd.gov)
• SBA Microloan: Official caps ($50,000), rates (8%–13%), and terms (up to 7 years). (sba.gov)
• MBE/SBR/eMMA: MDOT MBE contacts and average processing time 3–4 months; SBR target 15%; eMMA registration steps. (mdotombe.mattstraffin.com, marylandtaxes.gov, mdprocurement.freshdesk.com)
• Child care scholarship freeze: MSDE news release and program page. (news.maryland.gov, earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org)
• 211 Maryland: 24/7 access numbers and regional backups. (211md.org)
• SDAT filing timelines and rush fees: Business Monthly 2025 update and SDAT announcements. (bizmonthly.com, dat.maryland.gov)
• Trader’s License fee chart: Clerk of the Circuit Court pages. (mdcourts.gov)
• Health coverage: MHC consumer support 1-855-642-8572 and small‑biz 1-877-637-6249. (marylandhealthconnection.gov)
• SBIR/STTR caps for FY25: NIH SEED/guide updates and DoD SBIR overview. (grants.nih.gov, defensesbirsttr.mil, seed.nih.gov)

If a link is temporarily unavailable due to state site maintenance, try again later or call the phone numbers listed with each program.

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🏛️More Maryland Resources for Single Mothers

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