Flexible, below-market financing designed to help Anne Arundel County technology companies move from early traction to sustained growth within the cybersecurity and national defense ecosystem. The Next Stage Tech Fund supports companies building, supplying, or strengthening the systems that power our nation’s defense and cyber infrastructure.
Ideal For: Technology companies serving the cybersecurity and national defense industries with fewer than 100 employees and less than $5 million in gross revenue that are looking to get started or expand.
Loan Amount: $50,000 – $250,000
Use of Funds: Working capital to cover accounts receivable, leasehold improvements, cybersecurity compliance certifications, technology equipment, and operational growth needs available at below market interest rates.
The Next Stage Tech Fund reflects AAEDC’s commitment to strengthening Anne Arundel County’s innovation ecosystem — home to major defense contractors such as Northrop Grumman, Jacobs, and Booz Allen Hamilton, along with key Department of Defense agencies and national security professionals.
This program provides an important lifeline of capital to help technology companies grow, compete for contracts, secure required certifications, and create high-quality jobs.
The loan can be structured with flexible payment terms to accommodate your company’s cash flow and growth trajectory.
If your company is ready to strengthen its role in the cybersecurity and national defense ecosystem, the Next Stage Tech Fund may be the right next step.
AAEDC offers a range of financing tools designed to support businesses at every stage from start-up to expansion. Explore additional loan programs and incentives that may complement or align with your goals.
Ideal For: Small and minority-owned, women-owned, and Veteran-owned businesses in Maryland looking to start, grow, or expand operations.
Loan Amount: $25,000 – $500,000
Use of Funds: Business and commercial real estate acquisition, expansion, leasehold improvements, equipment purchases, and startup expenses available at below market interest rates.
Ideal For: Small and minority-owned, women-owned, and Veteran-owned businesses that have been in business for at least 2 years, graduated a business accelerator program, and are seeking low-cost flexible, expansion capital.
Loan Amount: Up to $50,000
Use of Funds: Expansion capital, business vehicle purchases, equipment, leasehold improvements, and other legitimate business expenses that support revenue growth.
Ideal For: Established local high growth businesses that have developed an innovative product, that is expanding into new markets, increasing sales, and creating jobs.
Loan Amount: Up to $100,000
Use of Funds: Workforce, expansion, equipment and other growth-related investment with flexible long-term repayment options.
Ideal For: Businesses and property owners looking to make improvements to the exterior of a commercial property located in one of Anne Arundel County’s 11 Commercial Revitalization Districts including in the city of Annapolis and select areas in South County.
Loan Amount: Up to $100,000 (0% interest)
Use of Funds: Exterior building renovations, site improvements, façade upgrades, landscaping, and other exterior improvements that strengthen commercial corridors.
Ideal For: Manufacturers, eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, and certain energy projects pursuing large-scale capital investments.
Loan Amount: Based on project size and financing structure
Use of Funds: Fixed-asset financing such as land acquisition, building construction, facility expansion, and major equipment purchases through tax-exempt bonds.
Ideal For: Farm-based businesses and commercial watermen in Anne Arundel County.
Grant Amount: Matching grants up to $10,000 (one-to-one match required).
Use of Funds: Eligible projects include fencing, livestock, plant stock, equipment, and agricultural infrastructure improvements that increase efficiency, revenue, or operational capacity.
