TEDCO (Maryland Technology Development Corporation) is an independent instrumentality of the State of Maryland. The Maryland General Assembly established it in 1998 to help create new businesses and support their growth in all regions of the state. Its tagline sums up the job: leading innovation to market.
TEDCO provides the funding, resources and connections that early-stage technology and life sciences companies need to thrive in Maryland. Its stated aim is to be Maryland's leading source of funding for early-stage, technology-based businesses, and to act as the hub of the state's innovation ecosystem.
Mission and vision
TEDCO's mission is to enhance economic empowerment by fostering an inclusive and entrepreneurial innovation ecosystem, and to identify, invest in and help grow technology companies in Maryland. Its vision is to be the recognized national leader in supporting translational research and technology-based economic and entrepreneurial development.
How TEDCO invests
On the investment side, TEDCO runs seed funds, venture funds and social impact funds, and administers part of Maryland's State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI). Alongside equity investment it offers grant and funding programs for specific stages and sectors, from early proof of concept work to federal lab technology transfer, defense technology, stem cell research and SBIR/STTR matching funds.
Beyond capital
TEDCO also supports founders with business resources, guidance on the Maryland ecosystem, an events calendar and a portfolio of companies it has backed. Founders apply for funding and manage their engagement through the MyTEDCO portal. Each year TEDCO hosts an Entrepreneur Expo that brings Maryland founders, investors and support organizations together.
For DMV founders, TEDCO is often one of the first institutional funders to talk to when a technology company is based in, or relocating to, Maryland.
