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DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

FUNCTIONS


[photo, World Trade Center Baltimore, at Inner Harbor, 401 East Pratt St, Baltimore, Maryland] To stimulate the economy and generate jobs in Maryland, the Department promotes biotechnology, attracts new businesses, encourages the expansion and retention of existing facilities, and provides financial assistance and training. The Department publicizes Maryland's attributes, and markets local products at home and abroad to stimulate economic development, international trade, and tourism. The Department also invests in the arts and promotes film production in Maryland.


World Trade Center Baltimore, at Inner Harbor, 401 East Pratt St., Baltimore, Maryland, November 2009. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.


The Department's objectives are carried out by three divisions: Business and Enterprise Development; Marketing and Communications; and Tourism, Film, and the Arts. The Department also is aided by the Maryland Economic Development Commission, the Federal Facilities Advisory Board, the International Advisory Council, and the Maryland Life Sciences Advisory Board. Further assistance is provided by the the Maryland Biotechnology Center.

In January 2009, the Department moved from Redwood Tower, 217 East Redwood St., to the World Trade Center Baltimore, at 401 East Pratt St., Baltimore.

OFFICE OF SECRETARY

World Trade Center Baltimore, 9th floor, 401 East Pratt St., Baltimore, MD 21202

As the chief executive officer of the Department, the Secretary of Business and Economic Development sets policy, promulgates rules and regulations, and determines the strategies necessary to fulfill the Department's mandate. Appointed by the Governor with Senate advice and consent, the Secretary is responsible for the budget of the Department, its boards, commissions, and offices. The Secretary is assisted by the Deputy Secretary who is appointed by the Secretary with the approval of the Governor.

The Secretary serves on the Governor's Executive Council; the Governor's Subcabinet for International Affairs; and the Smart Growth Subcabinet. The Secretary also chairs the Maryland Military Installation Council, and serves on the Board of Directors of the Maryland Agricultural and Resource-Based Industry Development Corporation; the Maryland Agricultural Education and Rural Development Assistance Board; the Animal Waste Technology Fund Advisory Committee; the Bainbridge Development Corporation; and the Maryland Workforce Corporation. The Secretary is a member of the Governor's Intergovernmental Commission for Agriculture; the Maryland Aviation Commission; the Critical Area Commission for the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays; the Coast Smart Council; the Interagency Disabilities Board; Maryland E-Nnovation Initiative Fund Authority; the Maryland Economic Development Assistance Authority; the Maryland Economic Development Commission; the Education and Workforce Training Coordinating Council for Correctional Institutions; the Maryland Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Council; the Commission on Environmental Justice and Sustainable Communities; the Maryland Green Purchasing Committee; the Maryland Heritage Areas Authority; the State Highway Access Valuation Board; the Governor's Commission on Hispanic Affairs; the Maryland Industrial Development Financing Authority; the Maryland Innovation Initiative; the Maryland Life Sciences Advisory Board; the Maryland Advisory Commission on Manufacturing Competitiveness; the Maryland Integrated Map Executive Committee; the Interdepartmental Advisory Committee for Minority Affairs; the Notheastern Maryland Additive Manufacturing Innovation Authority; the Maryland Offshore Wind Business Development Advisory Committee; the Council on Open Data; the Board of Directors, PenMar Development Corporation; the P-20 Leadership Council of Maryland; the Maryland Port Commission; the Renewable Fuels Incentive Board; the Task Force to Ensure Retirement Security for All Marylanders; the Rural Maryland Council; the Governor's Commission on Small Business; the Maryland Small Business Development Financing Authority; the State Center Executive Committee; the Maryland Sustainable Growth Commission; the Board of Directors of the Maryland Technology Development Corporation; the Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland; the Maryland War of 1812 Bicentennial Commission; the Governor's Warrior to Worker Council; the Maryland Wine and Grape Promotion Council; and the Governor's Workforce Investment Board.

Reporting directly to the Secretary are the Maryland Biotechnology Center, the Office of Cyber Development, and the Maryland Venture Fund, as well as the Governor's Economic Development and Job Creation Fast-Track-Initiative Coordinating Committee; the Maryland Economic Development Commission; the Federal Facilities Advisory Board; the International Advisory Council; and the Maryland Life Sciences Advisory Board.

BIOMARYLAND CENTER
World Trade Center Baltimore, Suite 700, 401 East Pratt St., Baltimore, MD 21202

As part of the Maryland BIO 2020 Initiative, the BioMaryland Center opened in January 2009 as the Maryland Biotechnology Center. In April 2013, it adopted its present name.

The Center consolidates and coordinates existing initiatives in State government, the University System of Maryland, and the private sector to better support and expand biotechnology innovation and enterprises in Maryland. The Center helps entrepreneurs in the life sciences field develop business plans. Further, it awards funding to innovative companies to accelerate the commercialization of their products. The Maryland Life Sciences Advisory Board guides Center activities.

MARYLAND VENTURE FUND
The Maryland Venture Fund organized as the Investment Financing Group in 1995. Formerly under the Division of Financing Programs, the Maryland Venture Fund transferred to Technology Strategy and Business Development in December 2003, and reformed as Venture Capital under the Deputy Secretary in 2005. It reorganized in July 2009 under the Office of Finance Programs, and in July 2012 moved to the Office of Secretary.

The Fund provides for direct investment in Maryland companies through Challenge Investment; Enterprise Investment; and Enterprise Venture-Capital Limited Partnership (Code Economic Development Article, secs. 6-501 through 6-529).

Challenge Investment Program. The Program initially may invest $50,000 as "seed money" in a technology-driven Maryland company. Matched with $50,000 from a co-investor, the Program provides a new business with $100,000 in capital. As the new business progresses and attains certain milestones, Venture Capital may authorize up to two increments of $25,000. The investment is to be repaid over a ten-year period. A Challenge recipient must keep its principal place of business in Maryland for three years. After two years, the business should have at least the potential to be considered for a direct equity investment from the Enterprise Investment Fund. Since FY1993, the Program has made 80 investments, totalling $4.35 million. Although the Program's investments are all start-up financing with higher risks, 75 percent of recipients are still in business, and ten recipients have qualified for direct equity investment from the Enterprise Investment Fund.

Enterprise Investment Fund. Created in late 1993, the Fund enables the Department to make direct equity investments (i.e., buy stock) in "early-stage" technology-driven businesses in Maryland. Investments range from $150,000 to $500,000. The decision to invest is based on the potential return, the range of economic development, and the number of jobs that will be created. Requiring a three-to-one co-investor match, the Fund has invested $11 million in 32 firms since FY1993.

Enterprise Venture Capital Limited Partnership Fund. Since FY1995, the Enterprise Investment Fund has invested in six private sector Venture Capital Limited Partnerships to encourage private investment in early stage, high technology Maryland-based firms.


DEPUTY SECRETARY

The Deputy Secretary is responsible for three divisions: Business and Enterprise Development; Marketing and Communications; and Tourism, Film, and the Arts. In addition, the Deputy Secretary oversees Internal Audits and three offices: Administration and Technology; Fair Practices; and Policy and Governmental Affairs.

OFFICE OF ADMINISTRATION & TECHNOLOGY
World Trade Center, 10th floor, 401 East Pratt St., Baltimore, MD 21202

In 1987, the Office of Administration and Technology originated as the Division of Administration. It became the Division of Administration and Information Technology in July 1999, and was renamed the Office of Administrative Services in July 2000. In December 2003, it reorganized as the Office of Support Services, and in 2005 resumed its earlier name as Office of Administrative Services. With the addition of Information and Technology Management in July 2007, it became the Division of Administration and Technology, and the Office of Administration and Technology in September 2008.

The Office develops departmental budget proposals and projections, and advises Department agencies and senior program directors on fund accounts, personnel, and purchasing. Requests for proposals and contract awards are reviewed by the Office for compliance with State purchasing regulations. The Office also provides mailroom services, monitors the use of departmental motor vehicles, and maintains liaison with building management.

Under the Office are five units: Budget and Finance; Contracts and Procurement; General Services; Human Resources; and Information and Technology Management.

OFFICE OF POLICY & GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS
World Trade Center Baltimore, 9th floor, 401 East Pratt St., Baltimore, MD 21202

The Office of Policy and Government Affairs began as Economic Development Policy in 1995. At that time, the Assistant Secretary for Economic Development Policy also served as the Governor's Ombudsman. In 1998, Economic Development Policy was renamed the Office of Economic Policy and Legislation, and in October 2003, it reorganized as the Division of Economic Policy, Research, and Legislative Affairs. In September 2008, Division legislative function transferred to the Office of Business Relations, and the Division reformed as the Office of Policy and Research. In March 2009, it reorganized as the Office of Policy, Planning, and Research, and in May 2009 under its present name. In July 2011, the Office transferred to the Division of Marketing and Communications, and in July 2012 it was placed under the Chief Operating Officer.

Progressive economic development policies for the State are developed, evaluated, and advocated by the Office. The Office advises the Secretary of Business and Economic Development on how changes in State and federal regulations effect Maryland's economy, and on the effectiveness of economic development policies and programs. To the Governor, the General Assembly, and the private technology sector, the Office acts as a liaison.

The Office oversees Government Relations, and Local Economic Development.


[photo, World Trade Center Baltimore,
401 East Pratt St, Baltimore, Maryland]

DIVISION OF BUSINESS & ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT

World Trade Center Baltimore, 15th floor, 401 East Pratt St., Baltimore, MD 21202

The Division of Business and Enterprise Development originated in 1959 when the Department of Economic Development was created to encourage businesses to locate in Maryland and to retain and expand existing enterprises (Chapter 185, Acts of 1959). These functions later devolved on the Division of Business Development. In 1995, the Division was renamed Division of Marketing and resumed its former name as the Division of Business Development in 1999. The Division reorganized in December 2003 into three regional components: Business Development-Baltimore Region; Business Development-Capital Region; and Business Development-Rural Region. In February 2007, Business Development-Rural Region was discontinued. In September 2008, Regional Development reformed as the Division of Economic Development, and in July 2009 under its present name.

World Trade Center Baltimore, 401 East Pratt St., Baltimore, Maryland, July 2008. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.


By attracting new and expanding businesses, the Division helps create jobs and improve the State's economy. It assists domestic and international firms in finding attractive locations in Maryland, produces market data and economic studies, and promotes international trade opportunities to Maryland firms.

The Division of Business and Enterprise Development oversees five offices: Business Development; Finance Programs; International Investment and Trade; Military Affairs; and Strategic Industries and Innovation. In addition, the Divison is responsible for the Maryland Industrial Training Program.

OFFICE OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

In July 2009, the Office of Business Development began its work of promoting Maryland as a site for new and existing business and industrial facilities.

The Office functions through three offices: Business Attraction; Regional Growth and Retention; and Small Business Resources.

OFFICE OF SMALL BUSINESS RESOURCES
Functions of the Office of Small Business Resources started in 1993 when the Office of Regulatory and Environmental Assistance began to focus on the needs of small and minority businesses. Within the Division of Regional Development, the Office reorganized as the Governor's Office of Business Advocacy in January 1997. In 1999, the Office transferred to the Office of Secretary and, in December 2000 was renamed the Governor's Office of Business Advocacy and Small Business Assistance. In February 2007, the Office reorganized as the Division of Small Business. In September 2008, the Division became Small Business Development under the Office of Economic Development and, in July 2009, restructured as the Office of Small Business under the Office of Business Services. In July 2012, it reformed as the Office of Small Business Resources.

The Office of Small Business Resources facilitates communication between the business community and government, and provides a regional ombudsman service to Maryland businesses, guides them through the regulatory and permitting processes, and serves as a source of information about government for them. It works to enhance Maryland's business environment by reviewing proposed legislation and analyzing its impact on economic growth. By identifying any duplicative, excessive or cumbersome regulations at all levels of government, the Office removes obstacles for business. It also advocates for, advises, and assists small and minority-owned businesses. In addition, the Office provides staff support for the Governor's Commission on Small Business.

OFFICE OF FINANCE PROGRAMS

World Trade Center Baltimore, 401 East Pratt St., Baltimore, MD 21202

In 1987, the Office of Finance Programs began as Financing Programs under the Department of Economic and Employment Development. It reformed as the Division of Financing Programs in 1995 under the Department of Business and Economic Development. In September 2008, it restructured as the Finance Team under the Office of Economic Development. In July 2009, it assumed its present name under the Division of Business and Enterprise Development.

The Office of Finance Programs directs and supervises certain State funds used as incentives or seed money for businesses in Maryland. These funds enable the State to retain businesses and attract new ones; foster economic growth; create new jobs; support commercial and industrial redevelopment; and help small, minority and high technology businesses.

The Office is responsible for the Economic Development Opportunities Program (Sunny Day) Fund; the Enterprise Fund (includes Challenge Investment Program); the Maryland Competitive Advantage Financing Fund; the Maryland Economic Adjustment Fund; Maryland Economic Development Assistance Authority and Fund; the Maryland Industrial Development Financing Authority; the Maryland Small Business Development Financing Authority; and the Maryland Venture Fund.

MARYLAND ECONOMIC ADJUSTMENT FUND
From the Maryland Economic Adjustment Fund, loans originally were made to companies in communities adversely affected by reductions in the budget of the U.S. Department of Defense. Beginning in July 2010, the Fund began to authorize loans to companies with fifty or fewer employees. These loans enable Maryland companies to modernize manufacturing operations, develop commercial applications for technology, or enter and compete in new economic markets (Code Economic Development Article, secs. 5-203 through 5-209).

MARYLAND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE AUTHORITY
Under Financing Programs (now Office of Finance Programs), the Maryland Economic Development Assistance Authority was authorized in 1999 (Chapter 301, Acts of 1999).

After Departmental review, the Authority evaluates requests for loans from the Maryland Economic Development Assistance Fund, determines which to approve, and sets the terms and conditions for loans. From the Fund, loans may be used only to finance costs incurred for acquisition or construction of a building or real estate; acquisition, construction, or installation of machinery, equipment, furnishings, fixtures, leasehold improvements, site improvements; or working capital. Loans are intended for projects with a strong potential for expanding or retaining employment in the State.

The Authority's financing is through loans and grants (including conditional loans and grants), and investments (only in conjunction with a loan or grant). These go to specific growth-industry sector businesses which locate or expand in a Priority Funding Area, or to a local jurisdiction on behalf of such a business. Priority Funding Areas include municipalities, land within the Washington, DC or Baltimore Beltways, areas already designated as enterprise zones, neighborhood revitalization areas, heritage areas, industrial land, or other areas where local government wants to encourage development and which meet other criteria.

The Authority consists of the nine members who also serve on the Maryland Industrial Development Financing Authority. Seven are appointed to three-year terms by the Governor, and two serve ex officio (Code Economic Development Article, secs. 5-305 through 5-307).

MARYLAND INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT FINANCING AUTHORITY
In 1965, the Maryland Industrial Development Financing Authority was created (Chapter 714, Acts of 1965). Through consolidation in 2000, the Maryland Industrial Development Fund replaced the Day Care Loan Facilities Loan Guarantee Fund, the Maryland Enterprise Incentive Deposit Fund, and its own Authorized Purpose Fund and Bond Insurance Fund (Chapter 305, Acts of 2000).

The Authority insures conventional loans made by financial institutions. It also may insure a loan or other obligation, or pay or insure the payment of premiums or fees for insurance, guarantees, or other credit support from a third party. The Authority insures up to the lesser of either 80 percent (or 90 percent in the case of export financing) of the obligation, or $2.5 million.

To participate in programs of the Maryland Industrial Development Financing Authority, a company must qualify generally in each of three basic categories: legal eligibility, economic impact, and creditworthiness (Federal Internal Revenue Code, sec. 146). A company also must be in a Priority Funding Area.

The Maryland Industrial Development Financing Authority has nine members. Seven are named to five-year terms by the Secretary of Business and Economic Development with the Governor's approval. The Secretary of Business and Economic Development, and either the State Treasurer or Comptroller of Maryland, as designated by the Governor, serve ex officio. The Authority appoints the Executive Director who serves as Secretary (Code Economic Development Article, secs. 5-401 through 5-420).

MARYLAND SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT FINANCING AUTHORITY
The Maryland Small Business Development Financing Authority began in 1978 (Chapter 879, Acts of 1978). Initially providing financial assistance to socially and economically disadvantaged persons who own small businesses within the State, the Authority's eligibility criteria was extended in 2001 to all small business owners who are unable to obtain adequate financing on reasonable terms through traditional financing methods.

Programs of the Maryland Small Business Development Financing Authority are unique. A major criterion for approval of Authority guarantees and loans is the economic impact resulting from the use of available funds. This impact is measured according to the projected number of jobs retained and created, and the projected amount of tax revenue generated from the use of these funds.

In 1992, the U.S. Congress allowed states to use public funds to establish specialized small business investment companies to serve disadvantaged business owners (P.L. 102-366). Two years later, the Maryland Small Business Development Financing Administration was authorized to organize itself into a private Maryland corporation that would be such a company (Chapter 691, Acts of 1994). Since 1994, funds under the Authority have been managed privately. The Department contracted with that privatized organization to administer programs for a period of three years and has an option to renew the contract for two years.

The Authority has nine members. Seven are appointed to five-year terms by the Governor. The Secretary of Business and Economic Development and either the State Treasurer or Comptroller (as designated by the Governor) serve ex officio (Code Economic Development Article, secs. 5-501 through 5-514).

Under the Authority are four programs: Contract Financing; Equity Participation Investment; Long-Term Guaranty; and Surety Bonding.

Contract Financing Program. For eligible firms with government or public utility contracts, the Authority may guarantee a loan from a financial institution; it also may provide a direct loan for working capital and equipment. These guarantees or loans may be offered only to fulfill contracts on projects financed by federal, State or local government, or by a utility regulated by the Public Service Commission.

Equity Participation Investment Program. To encourage and assist the start up, development, and retention of Maryland-based franchises and technology businesses, owned and operated by persons socially or economically disadvantaged, this program was created in 1985. For all eligible firms, the Authority may invest up to 45 percent or $100,000 (whichever is less) of funds to start a franchise operation. The Authority also may invest up to 25 percent or $500,000 (whichever is less) of funds to acquire a profitable business. For these options, the Authority requires the initial investment to be recovered within seven years. The Authority also may invest up to $500,000 in technology-based businesses to be repaid in ten years.

Long-Term Guaranty Program. For all eligible firms, the Authority may guarantee and/or pay an interest rate subsidy on a long-term loan made by a financial institution. The loan may be used for working capital, acquisition and related installation of machinery and equipment, or needed improvements to real property owned by the applicant.

Surety Bonding Program. Since 1985, the Surety Bonding Program has helped eligible small businesses obtain bonds they need to fulfill contracts funded primarily by government agencies or public utilities. These may be bid, performance or payment bonds. The Program either guarantees a bond up to 90 percent or $5,000,000 (Code Economic Development Article, secs. 5-561 through 5-575).

OFFICE OF INTERNATIONAL INVESTMENT & TRADE

World Trade Center Baltimore, 7th floor, 401 East Pratt St., Baltimore, MD 21202

In 1988, the Office of International Investment and Trade was begun by the Department as the Office of International Business Development. Reorganized as the Office of Developing Markets in 1992, and as International Trade Development in 1995, it became the Trade Development Program in 1997 and the Trade Development Group in 1999. In December 2001, it restructured as the Office of International Trade, and in 2003 became International Business. Formerly under the Division of Business Development, it joined Technology Strategy and Business Development in December 2003. As International Operations, it reported to the Deputy Secretary until July 2007, when it transferred to Business Development as the Office of International Trade and Investment. In May 2008, the Office moved back under the Deputy Secretary as the Division of International Trade and Investment, and in September 2008, was placed under the Secretary. In March 2009, it reformed under its present name, and in July 2009 moved to the Division of Business and Enterprise Development.

The Office of International Investment and Trade assists Maryland firms in exporting their products and services to international markets. It also helps these businesses effectively initiate or expand their overseas marketing (Code Economic Development Article, secs. 3-301 through 3-309).

To attract foreign businesses to Maryland, the Office maintains ties to trade representatives with offices in twelve countries: Brazil, Canada, China, France, India, Israel, Japan, Korea, Montenegro, South Africa, Sweden, and Taiwan.

OFFICE OF MILITARY AFFAIRS

World Trade Center, 15th floor, 401 East Pratt St., Baltimore, MD 21202

Certain functions of the Office of Military Affairs started as the Office of Technology Development in January 1989. That office reformed as the Technology Commercialization Program in 1993, as the Office of Federal Response and Technology Commercialization in 1995, and as the Office of Technology Support in March 1998. It became the Office of Military Affairs and Federal Facilities in 1999. Formerly under the Division of Regional Development, as Military Affairs, it moved to Technology Strategy and Business Development in December 2003. It then transferred to the Office of Secretary in March 2004. In September 2008, it became the Office of Federal and Military Affairs, and in March 2009 reformed as the Office of Military and Federal Affairs. In July 2009, it moved to the Division of Business and Enterprise Development, and in July 2012 adopted its present name.

To support technology businesses, the Office of Military Affairs coordinates and leverages resources in the public, private and academic sectors. It also serves as liaison to federal government agencies located in Maryland. In addition, it provides financial support and training grants to companies affected by federal budget cuts and relocations.

The Office develops business relationships between U.S. military bases, federal laboratories, and private companies in Maryland to implement strategies for creating and retaining jobs, and redeveloping abandoned military sites. To minimize the adverse impact of closures of military bases or federal facilities, it helps businesses diversify to reduce their dependence on the federal government.

OFFICE OF STRATEGIC INDUSTRIES & INNOVATION

Through reorganization in July 2012, the Office of Strategic Industries and Innovation was established under the Division of Business and Enterprise Development.

The Office oversees four units: Clean Technology and Renewable Energy; Advanced Manufacturing; Health Information Technology and Educational Technology; and Small Business and Entrepreneurship. The Office is aided by the Maryland Advisory Commission on Manufacturing Competitiveness.


DIVISION OF MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS

World Trade Center Baltimore, 7th floor, 401 East Pratt St., Baltimore, MD 21202

In 1991 , the Division of Marketing and Communications began as the Division of Business Resources. It reformed as the Division of Regional Development in 1995, reorganized as Technology Strategy and Business Development in December 2003, and emerged as Business Development in 2005. In September 2008, it restructured as the Division of Marketing and Business Development, and in May 2009 as the Division of Marketing and Communications.

The Division promotes Maryland's competitive business advantages through an aggressive outreach strategy, using social media, interactive web marketing, and traditional business research and information.

Under the Division are four offices: Digital Engagement; Marketing; Public Affairs and Media Relations; and Research and Information Services.

DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT

Digital Engagement develops and operates an interactive marketing program that includes websites and social media.

MARKETING

To promote Maryland's primary industries, Marketing conducts advertising campaigns, coordinates promotional events, plans displays for trade shows and conferences, and produces brochures.

PUBLIC AFFAIRS & MEDIA RELATIONS

RESEARCH & INFORMATION SERVICES

Research and Information Services started in 1970 as the Division of Research, a unit within the Department of Economic and Community Development. When the Department of Economic and Employment Development superseded the Department of Economic and Community Development in 1987, the Division transferred to the Office of the Secretary as the Office of Research, which reformed in 1991 as the Marketing Research Group. The Group reorganized as the Office of Business and Economic Research within the Division of Marketing in 1995, and moved to the Office of Economic Policy and Legislation in 1998. It became Business and Economic Research in 1999, and in 2000 moved to the Office of Business Information Services. In October 2003, it transferred to the Division of Economic Policy, Research, and Legislative Affairs as Economic Research and Analysis. In 2004, it became Business and Economic Research, and in September 2008 moved to the Office of Policy and Research. It reformed as Economic Research under the Office of Policy, Planning, and Research in March 2009, and in May 2009 transferred to the Division of Marketing and Communications as Research and Business Resources. In June 2010, it adopted its present name.

Research and Information Services provides ongoing economic data, analyses, and research to guide and support economic development initiatives. It conducts in-depth research on business and economic development issues for the Department and other State government agencies, and provides information for businesses seeking to locate or expand in Maryland. Moreover, it analyzes savings realized in enterprise zones; compares tax structures in states; and provides information about State, property and income taxes, and regulatory costs. In addition, it undertakes special research projects and compiles Maryland's Business Pulse, and Economic Pulse.


DIVISION OF TOURISM, FILM, & THE ARTS

World Trade Center Baltimore, 14th floor, 401 East Pratt St., Baltimore, MD 21202

The Division of Tourism, Film, and the Arts began in 1948 as the Department of Information under the Hall of Records Commission. The Department became an independent agency in 1949. It reorganized in 1959 as the Tourist Development and Publicity Division within the Department of Economic Development. When the Department of Economic and Community Development formed, the Division was renamed the Tourism Division in 1970, the Division of Tourist Development by 1973, and the Tourist Development Office by 1981. By 1989, the Office reorganized as part of the Division of Tourism and Promotion. In July 1996, the Division was renamed the Division of Tourism, Film, and the Arts (Chapter 321, Acts of 1996; Code Economic Development Article, secs. 4-102).

Maryland as a destination for domestic and international travelers is promoted by the Division. The Division also supports the performing, visual and creative arts and promotes Maryland as a location for film and television production.

Under the Division are two offices: the Maryland Film Office [Office of Film and Digital Media]; and Tourism Development. The Division also is aided by the Maryland State Arts Council.

MARYLAND FILM OFFICE
[OFFICE OF FILM & DIGITAL MEDIA]

World Trade Center Baltimore, 401 East Pratt St., Baltimore, MD 21202

The Maryland Film Office was created in 1980 as the Motion Picture and Television Development Office (Chapter 5, Acts of 1980). It joined the Department of Economic and Employment Development in 1987 (Chapter 311, Acts of 1987). After being placed under the Maryland State Arts Council in 1992, the Office reformed as a separate entity in 1994 and became part of the Department of Business and Economic Development in 1995. It was renamed the Maryland Film Office in 1997 (Chapter 49, Acts of 1997; Code Economic Development Article, secs. 4-301 through 4-305). Since 2010, it has been called the Office of Film and Digital Media.

For film and video production, the Office promotes Maryland's diverse locations. For feature films, and television programs and commercials, it works to provide facilities throughout the State. The Office helps with location scouting, permits, casting, film crew housing, catering, and equipment rental. It also prepares and distributes materials highlighting desirable film locations in the State. To bring more movie business to Maryland, the Office maintained a satellite office in Los Angeles from July 2000 to July 2007.

The Office has assisted with many Maryland films.

OFFICE OF TOURISM DEVELOPMENT

The Office of Tourism Development had formed as the Tourist Development Office by 1981 and reorganized within the Division of Tourism, Film, and the Arts under its present name in 1996. Tourism has an economic impact on Maryland by creating jobs, generating tax revenue, and increasing business income. In 2010, some 32.2 million visitors spent an estimated $13.1 billion, generating about 130,000 jobs and $1.9 billion in State and local tax revenue.

To increase tourism, the Office of Tourism Development showcases Maryland's unique recreational, historical and cultural attractions. The Office promotes Maryland as a travel destination for domestic and international tourists. It publicizes major events and advises travel agents, tour operators, writers, and the Maryland travel industry about attractions, services, and facilities.

Free publications describing Maryland tourist attractions, accommodations, historic sites, State parks, camping facilities, and recreational opportunities are updated annually. These publications include Destination Maryland (travel and outdoor guide), Maryland Celebrates Calendar of Events, and an official Maryland State highway map. The Office also works with travel and outdoor writers to provide tours of Maryland, research and information, and promotional photographs.

In addition to answering mail and phone inquiries, the Office runs three highway information centers. The Office's matching funds and cooperative marketing programs strengthen and support county and regional travel promotion councils as well.

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 Maryland Manual On-Line, 2015

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