Diverse Industry Base

As the capital city of Maryland, Annapolis’ unique blend of history, environment and innovation creates a flourishing ecosystem for diverse businesses and entrepreneurs.

Ideal Location
The area’s diverse industry base of maritime, cybersecurity, advanced technology, professional and business services, and tourism is a stable generator of job creation and business opportunities. Situated as the eastern anchor of Anne Arundel County, Annapolis’ proximity to Washington DC, Baltimore MD, and transportation assets provides an ideal business location. While proximity to these metropolitan areas is a benefit to businesses and residents alike, Annapolis is just distant enough to maintain a small town atmosphere with a vibrant historic downtown, walkable streets and neighborhoods, and a collaborative business environment.

Fertile Ground
Culture and environment have strongly influenced the development of industry in Annapolis. From the creation of the nation’s first theater to the founding of numerous tech companies, our community remains at the forefront of innovation and creativity. Creative professionals naturally gravitate to the area, fostering an economy focused on technological innovation, artistic expression, artisanal foods, and hand-crafted goods. The ecological wonders of the Chesapeake Bay have provided fertile ground for the development of our leading water sports, tourism, and marine businesses. Our extraordinary lifestyle is ideal for your business and workforce.

Distinctly Different
Annapolis has created a market that is distinctly different from nearby Baltimore MD and Washington DC. The natural features and small-town appeal encourage a boutique market for entrepreneurs and business owners who seek a high quality lifestyle that really has it all, a community eager to support local businesses, and a constant talent pool that flows down from the wide range of Maryland’s renowned educational, research and military institutions.

Major Industries Across the City’s Six Commercial Neighborhoods

• Accommodation and Food Services
• Healthcare and Social Assistance
• Management, Finance, Insurance, and Real Estate Services
• Manufacturing
• Maritime
• Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
• Retail Trade
• Transportation and Warehousing
• Wholesale Trade

“We are dedicated to helping our diverse spectrum of industries and businesses access the resources they need to grow and thrive.”

To access in-depth data on the diverse industries in Annapolis, visit the Explore Communities tool on the Maryland Department of Commerce website.