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In an effort to accelerate growth in rural Maryland’s technology ecosystem, the Maryland Tech Council has launched the Rural Technology Network, MTC officials announced Wednesday.
The new network is designed to boost networking, partnerships and innovation on the Eastern Shore and in Western Maryland – two regions that are home to large concentrations of the state’s rural residents.
Through strategic business development and offering companies enhanced access to networking, cost savings, education, mentorship and other resources, the Rural Technology Network’s ultimate objective is to strengthen economic growth in rural Maryland.
According to MTC, the initiative seeks to foster partnerships between the private sector, educational institutions and local governments to enhance commercialization while bolstering the pipeline of local businesses.
“Rural Maryland has all the assets needed to be a top technology ecosystem – a deep pool of industry talent, low cost of doing business, and strong research base,” MTC CEO Kelly Schulz said.
“We created the Rural Technology Network to build a unified voice for the rural technology ecosystem, strengthen ties between industry and research institutions, and enable entrepreneurs to achieve their biggest ambitions right here in Maryland.”
The Rural Technology Network will host inaugural events over the summer, according to MTC, a nonprofit that is among the largest technology and life sciences trade associations in the state.
“As a physician who has conducted research, I understand the benefits innovation can bring to patients while also promoting startup formation and growing our economy,” said Congressman Andy Harris (R-Md.), whose jurisdiction covers much of the Eastern Shore.
“The Rural Technology Network will give the most innovative entrepreneurs in rural Maryland a new way to connect, grow, and create good-paying jobs for Marylanders.”
