Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce News Newswire

The Maryland Department of Service and Civic Innovation (DSCI

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 15:17:50 GMT

"The Maryland Department of Service and Civic Innovation (DSCI) is currently identifying organizations interested in partnering with Governor Wes Moore's flagship Maryland Corps/Service Year Option (MC/SYO) program. Through this subsidized program, DSCI places civic-minded 18-to-24-year-olds into full-time service roles lasting 9+ months.

This year, DSCI is launching a new Tech Corps, a cohort of Members within the MC/SYO program who can:

Help or train your team to integrate new software and digital tools into your work
Build or manage your company's website or IT systems, including hardware support
Modernize your company's workflows by collecting, inputting, and analyzing data or building databases
Familiarize your team with AI tools and/or integrate AI tools into your work

The best part: To help cover the minimum $15/hour wage, DSCI provides a grant of up to $20,000 per hire, meaning you can bring on a full-time professional for only ~$7,450 for an entire year. The state also provides each Member with a dedicated Success Coach, weekly professional development, and a $6000 completion award to support their growth and success.

Want to learn more? Contact Deepika Ramachandran (deepika.ramachandran1@maryland.gov) and Taylor Bloch (taylor.bloch@maryland.gov).

Ready to apply? Start here."

Heros against hunger

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 15:54:44 GMT

Manna Food Center is excited to honor three dedicated Heroes who fight hunger and feed hope in Montgomery County! Please join us at The Music Center at Strathmore on September 24th to celebrate the commitment of these Heroes and our supportive network of volunteers, donors, and partners.

Community Impact at 2026 Annual Dinner

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT:

Sinikka Mondini for MCCC
630-885-8604/sinikka@jrcommunications.com
Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce Celebrates Leadership, Service, and

Community Impact at 2026 Annual Dinner

Chamber Announces 2026–2027 Board of Directors and Recognizes Leaders Making a Difference Across Montgomery County

Rockville, MD (June 11, 2026) - The Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) welcomed business, government, nonprofit, and community leaders to its 2026 Annual Dinner, the Chamber's signature annual gathering that serves as both a celebration of leadership and the organization's annual business meeting.

Each year, the Annual Dinner provides an opportunity to announce and install the incoming Board of Directors, recognize individuals and organizations whose leadership has made a meaningful difference in Montgomery County over the past year, and reflect on the Chamber's
accomplishments and impact on behalf of its members.

During the evening, Chamber leaders reviewed the organization's progress this year by presenting MCCC's Annual Report, highlighting a year of growth, advocacy, and collaboration across Montgomery County's business community. The report showcased achievements
including double-digit membership growth, impactful policy advocacy, expanded workforce initiatives, and cross-sector partnerships that brought together business, nonprofit, education, and government leaders to address some of the County's most pressing challenges.

"The Annual Dinner is an opportunity to celebrate the people and organizations that strengthen our community every day, while also reaffirming our commitment to advancing Montgomery County's business community in the year ahead," said Angela Franco, President and CEO, Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce.

Attendees also heard from keynote speaker Mahan Tavakoli, CEO and Managing Partner of Strategic Leadership Partners, who offered insights on navigating change, embracing innovation, and leading with purpose during times of transformation—reinforcing the Chamber's commitment to preparing leaders and organizations for future success.

The program also recognized the Chamber's volunteer leadership through the ceremonial passing of the gavel from outgoing Board Chair Dr. Anne Khademian of The Universities at Shady Grove to incoming Board Chair William Wiechmann of Kaiser Permanente. In addition,
MCCC inducted its 2026–2027 Board of Directors, whose leadership and service will help guide
the Chamber's work in the coming year.

2026 Annual Award Recipients

Held under the theme "United We Grow," the Annual Dinner awards celebrated organizations and individuals whose contributions continue to strengthen the County’s economy, workforce, and quality of life.

Corporate Partner of the Year - Pepco, an Exelon Company
Recognized for its longstanding partnership with MCCC, commitment to reliable energy service, community engagement, workforce development, and investments that support economic growth throughout the region.

Business Legacy of the Year - The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company
Honored for more than a century of excellence in construction, transformative projects across
Maryland and the nation, and a deep commitment to community service and philanthropy.

Business Advocate of the Year - Andy Chod, Co-President, Minkoff Development
Recognized for his leadership in advancing Montgomery County's economic competitiveness,
workforce development initiatives, and advocacy efforts that support a strong business climate.

Legislator of the Year - Council Vice President Marilyn Balcombe
Honored for her dedication to economic development, workforce advancement, transportation,
and her unwavering support of Montgomery County's business community.

Chairwoman's Award - Tiffany Lukis, Director of STEM and Community Engagement, AstraZeneca
Recognized for her exceptional leadership, strategic vision, and commitment to advancing
education, workforce development, and community engagement throughout the region.

Annual Dinner sponsors included:
? Pepco (Presenting Sponsor)
? Kaiser Permanente (Award)
? M&T Bank (Award)
? Montgomery College (Award)
? The Universities at Shady Grove (Award)
? CareFirst (Board Recognition)
? AstraZeneca (General Recognition)
? Young Artists of America (Entertainment
Sponsor)
? CohnReznick (Welcome Toast)
? Montgomery County Economic Development
Corporation (Welcome Toast)
? Greenberg Traurig (Bar Sponsor)
? Verizon (Dessert Bar)
? Contemporaries, Inc. (Platinum)
? Information Systems Solutions (Platinum)
? Marriott International (Platinum)
? River Falls (Platinum)
? Total Wine & More (Platinum)
? Whiting-Turner (Platinum)

For more information about the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce, please visit www.mcccmd.com.

About Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce
The Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce (MCCC), on behalf of its members, champions the growth of business opportunities, strategic infrastructure investments, and a strong workforce to position Metro Maryland as a premier regional, national, and global business location. Established in 1959, MCCC is an independent, non-profit membership organization.
For more information, visit https://www.mcccmd.com or follow the Chamber at https://www.facebook.com/MCCCMD.

###

Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind - 125 Year Anniversary!

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 14:21:10 GMT

Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind has spent 125 years proving that independence is possible for anyone, at any stage of vision loss. This October, we are celebrating that legacy. And we would love for you to be part of it.

The CLB 125^th Anniversary Celebration takes place on Thursday, October 1, 2026, at the National Industries for the Blind headquarters in Alexandria, Virginia. It will be an evening of reflection, inspiration, and community. Beyond celebrating our legacy, the event will also serve as a launch point for the next chapter of CLB's mission.

There are several meaningful ways to participate:

• Event Sponsorships - Partner with CLB and receive recognition across all event materials, digital platforms, and more

• Monetary Donations - Contribute to our 125 for 125 Campaign, with a goal of raising $125,000 ($1,000 for every year of service)

• Silent Auction Contributions - Donate an experience, service, or item to our curated silent auction

The attached prospectus outlines all sponsorship levels, recognition opportunities, and event details. Every level of support makes a difference, and every partner becomes part of a story 125 years in the making.

If you have any questions or would like to discuss how you can get involved, please do not hesitate to reach out. We would be honored to have you with us.

Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce Announces Annual Business Award Winners

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 06:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Sinikka Mondini for MCCC

630-885-8604/sinikka@jrcommunications.com

Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce Announces Annual

Business Award Winners

The 2025 Business Awards Dinner Celebrates the Best in the Montgomery

County Business Community

Rockville, MD (October 7, 2025) – The Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce its 2025 Business Award winners that will be celebrated during the annual Business Awards Dinner on November 12, 2025. This event showcases the best of the Montgomery County business community, with 600 guests expected to attend.

“Each year, the Business Awards Dinner is a reminder of the incredible innovation, resilience, and impact of Montgomery County’s business community across a variety of sectors, including biotech, construction, energy, entertainment, finance, government, and retail industries,” said Angela Franco, President & CEO, Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce. “This year’s honorees represent the very best of what it means to lead with vision and to give back to our community. We look forward to celebrating their achievements and the lasting contributions they make both locally and throughout the region.”

The Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce 2025 Business Award winners include:

Business Partner of the Year: Aprio

The Business Partner of the Year award recognizes a business or individual that demonstrates excellence in subcontracting and/or supports small businesses to accelerate their success, and meets the mission of GovConNet. MCCC and the GovConNet Council are proud to recognize Aprio for its steadfast support for the Council and the government contracting community in our region and beyond. Aprio is a business advisory, tax, and accounting firm for innovators, business leaders, and entrepreneurs.

Community Impact: Giant Food of Maryland, LLC

The Community Impact Award honors an individual or organization that has reshaped business in Metro Maryland through years of sustained service and deep community commitment. The Chamber proudly recognizes Giant Food of Maryland, LLC, for its longstanding and measurable impact across the region. Headquartered in Landover and operating 163 stores and 153 pharmacies, Giant has supported Metro Maryland for over 89 years. Through its “Better Neighbor” initiative, Giant tackles food insecurity, supports military families, funds pediatric cancer research, and promotes social equality. In 2024, it donated over 5.1 million meals and raised millions for local nonprofits. Giant Pharmacy’s outreach clinics have served nearly 200,000 residents with vaccinations, health screenings, and in-home care—bringing vital services directly to schools, businesses, and community organizations.

Corporation of the Year: F.O. Day Co.

The Corporation of the Year award is presented to an individual or company that demonstrates leadership, innovation, commitment, and good corporate citizenship in Metro Maryland and beyond. The awardee has set consistently high standards for financial performance, sound management, and sustained growth over a period of many years. It has made significant and lasting contributions to the local economy and the community. The Chamber is pleased to recognize F.O. Day Co., which for over 80 years has been Maryland’s premier site work contractor and asphalt production and service provider, earning a reputation as a regional leader in paving, structures, and site development.

Global Impact:?X-energy

The Global Impact award recognizes an organization or individual headquartered in Montgomery County that has had a sustained and significant positive impact on national and global economic opportunity and well-being. The Chamber is pleased to honor X-energy for its global impact. X-energy is a private American nuclear reactor and fuel design engineering company that is developing a Generation IV high-temperature gas-cooled pebble-bed nuclear reactor design. X-energy is delivering the next generation of carbon-free energy by reinventing nuclear power.

Government Partner of the Year: MD Department of Labor

The Government Partner of the Year award recognizes a public partner who supports the mission of GovConNet, "to promote the economic impact of the federal government presence and to advocate on behalf of the contracting community for business opportunities." MCCC and GovConNet would like to highlight the Maryland Department of Labor for its swift and impactful leadership in supporting federal employees transitioning out of federal service. MD Labor mobilized its full suite of resources—including critical career exploration and reskilling tools and support for new ventures—to ensure the Capital Region retains this strong and talented pool of workers as they quickly pivot to new jobs and careers.

Innovator of the Year: Olney Theatre Center for the Arts

The Innovator of the Year award recognizes an individual or organization for its innovation and tremendous contributions to the County and beyond. The Chamber is pleased to recognize the Olney Theatre Center for the Arts for their ongoing commitment to the region. The Olney Theatre Center has raised $33 million of a $36.5 million goal to create innovative new performance, production, and education spaces. With improved performance, production, and education facilities, Olney Theatre Center will produce a new generation of transformative productions, artists, technicians, and arts leaders - turning the Olney Theatre into a world-class home for artists, a cultural hub for our community, and a teaching theater unlike any other in the United States.

Small Business Leader of the Year: David McNairy, Dabos, Inc.

The Chamber is proud to present the Small Business Leader of the Year award to David McNairy, an accomplished entrepreneur, attorney, and Founder & President of DABOS, Inc., based in Rockville, Maryland. This prestigious award honors a small business owner or manager with 500 or fewer employees whose enterprise has demonstrated significant growth and whose leadership has made a meaningful impact on the business community. Under David’s visionary leadership, DABOS has evolved into a cutting-edge technology platform with the largest and most diverse scientific catalog in the world. Originally designed to distribute biotech, medical, biochemical, chemical, and pharmacological supplies and equipment, the platform has expanded to serve a wide range of industries—including retail, restaurants, and manufacturing—through custom solutions in manufacturing, importing, warehousing, and distribution. DABOS is now uniquely positioned to harness the power of artificial intelligence and emerging logistics technologies to deliver seamless, automated supply chain solutions to some of the world’s largest enterprises.

Verl Zanders Emerging Business: Liatris

The Verl Landers Emerging Business award is presented to an emerging company on the leading edge of innovation by creating milestones in technology and/or business that has achieved enhanced earnings and contributed to Montgomery County’s reputation as an outstanding place to do business. The Chamber continues this award tradition by honoring Liatris, which is delivering the cleanest and fastest energy savings for businesses and consumers by producing high-performance thermal insulation for buildings that is easy to install, eco-friendly, and resilient. Liatris Inc. is expanding its “Super Insulation Prototype Center” in the Twinbrook neighborhood of Rockville to scale up these next-generation materials for future deployment and manufacturing with corporate partners, including the highest-performance insulation prototypes in the industry at R-11/inch.

This event is made possible through the generous support of our sponsors, including:

Award Winner Reception - Shapiro & Duncan, Inc.
General Reception Sponsor - Roberts Oxygen
Award Sponsors - Aprio, BuildWithin, CohnReznick LLP, Kaiser Foundation Health Plan of the Mid-Atlantic States, Inc., Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC), PNC Bank, and M&T Bank
Platinum Sponsors - Contemporaries, F.O. Day, Kaiser Permanente, Lantian Development, M&T Bank, Marriott International, Montgomery College, The Universities at Shady Grove, Total Wine & More, and Whiting-Turner
Silver - AT&T, Boland, Comcast, MCB Real Estate, Olney Theatre Center for the Arts, Stockbridge, Visit Montgomery - Montgomery County Conference & Visitors Bureau, and Verizon
For a complete list of sponsors, please visit: mcccmd.com/businesawards

The Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce 2025 Business Awards Dinner will take place on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, from 5:00-8:30 p.m. at the Bethesda North Marriott Hotel and Conference Center. For more information, sponsorship opportunities, and to register, please visit www.mcccmd.com/businessawards.

About Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce

The Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce (MCCC), on behalf of its members, champions the growth of business opportunities, strategic infrastructure investments, and a strong workforce to position Metro Maryland as a premier regional, national, and global business location. Established in 1959, MCCC is an independent, non-profit membership organization. For more information, visit https://www.mcccmd.com or follow the Chamber at https://www.facebook.com/MCCCMD.

###