ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Governor Wes Moore announced the launch of the Maryland Business Ready Sites Program on May 3, 2025, aimed at spurring economic growth by developing shovel-ready business sites across the state. Backed by $3.5 million in matching grants, the initiative supports site characterization and infrastructure improvements to attract investment and create jobs.
“Since Day One, we’ve worked to make Maryland more competitive,” said Gov. Moore. “I want to thank the Maryland Economic Development Corporation and partners from across the state for building on that foundation through the Maryland Business Ready Sites Program. Together, we will attract business growth to the state, create new jobs, and position Maryland to win the decade.”
The program, established under the governor’s December 2024 economic competitiveness executive order, is managed by the Maryland Economic Development Corporation (MEDCO) in collaboration with state, county, and municipal economic development agencies. It offers two grant types: site characterization grants, which fund professional evaluations of a site’s development status and potential, and site improvement grants, which cover costs for infrastructure upgrades, environmental remediation, and other development needs [medco-corp.com/programs].
“We believe the Maryland Business Ready Sites Program will be a powerful catalyst for economic growth and investment throughout our state,” said Maryland Economic Development Corporation Executive Director Tom Sadowski. “By preparing sites for immediate development, we’re creating opportunities for both public and private partners to attract employers, facilitate business expansion, and revitalize underutilized properties across Maryland.”
Eligible sites must be at least five acres, in pre-development, and intended for industrial or commercial use by private sector companies in designated industries. Public and private entities owning or controlling the land and meeting program conditions can apply. Applications are open, with a priority review deadline of May 31 for fiscal year 2026 funding. Details on eligibility and the application process are available at medco-corp.com/programs.
The initiative targets underutilized properties to transform them into viable business locations, supporting Maryland’s broader economic strategy. By preparing sites for immediate development, the program aims to reduce barriers for businesses seeking to establish or expand operations in the state. This effort builds on MEDCO’s mission to foster economic development through strategic partnerships and investments.
Maryland’s economic development agencies will work closely with applicants to ensure sites meet program standards and align with local growth priorities. The grants are designed to accelerate project timelines, making Maryland more attractive to industries seeking ready-to-build locations. The program is expected to enhance the state’s competitiveness in attracting high-value employers, particularly in the manufacturing, technology, and logistics sectors.
Governor Moore’s executive order emphasizes a proactive approach to economic development, with the Business Ready Sites Program as a key component. By investing in site readiness, Maryland aims to position itself as a leader in business attraction over the next decade. Interested parties are encouraged to explore the program’s guidelines and submit applications promptly to utilize the available funding.
