What it is

The Maryland Tech Council (MTC) describes itself as a collaborative community that supports the growth of technology and life science companies in Maryland, and as the largest technology and life sciences trade association in the state. Its stated vision is to make Maryland the leading innovation economy for life sciences and technology in the country. MTC is based at 9808 Medical Center Drive in Rockville.

What it offers founders

  • Mentorship at MTC: MTC Venture Mentoring Services pairs leaders at emerging companies with industry mentors who give unbiased advice on strategy, funding, market entry and sector specific challenges, at no cost.
  • Events and networking: a member events calendar, regional happy hours, the annual Bio Innovation Conference with One2One partnering, the Maryland Data Center Summit and the ICON Awards.
  • Cost savings: a Savings and Rewards Program and member to member B2B discounts on items such as lab supplies and shipping.
  • Advocacy: representation with policymakers and education on local, state and federal incentives, tax credits and funding programs, plus a Bills of Interest tracker.
  • Peer groups: committees and roundtables for C level executives, members under 40 and sector leaders.
  • Talent: workforce resources and a job board.

BioHub Maryland and regional networks

BioHub Maryland is an MTC workforce initiative focused on biopharma manufacturing talent. Its Training and Education Center at Montgomery County, an 8,200 square foot facility in Rockville that opened in October 2024, provides hands on training in areas such as aseptic technique, GMP and GDP. MTC also runs a Rural Technology Network for the Eastern Shore and Western Maryland, Regional Networks, the Data Center Alliance of Maryland and the Prescription Access Alliance of Maryland.

Membership and pricing

Companies join by category. Technology and Life Sciences companies pay annual dues based on employee count in MD, VA and DC, starting at $700 per year for 1 to 10 employees and rising to $9,200 for 701 or more. Associate members (service providers such as legal, financial and consulting firms) start at $900. Flat rates apply to Academic Institutions ($1,400), Affiliates such as nonprofits ($875), Government Institutions ($875) and Incubators ($1,000). The membership year runs July 1 to June 30 and dues are prorated. See the membership page for the calculator.

Why it matters in the DMV ecosystem

For a founder building a tech or life sciences company in Maryland, MTC is a direct route into the state's industry network, policy conversations and investor facing events. Early stage teams can start with the free mentorship program, attend the Bio Innovation Conference, or read more about MTC.