Next Stage Tech Fund

Next Stage Tech Fund is sponsored by Anne Arundel Economic Development Corporation (AAEDC). Provides flexible, below-market financing to technology companies in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, supporting cybersecurity and national defense sectors.

Cybersecurity & Technology in Anne Arundel County | AAEDC Powering Innovation at the Center of the Nation’s Cyber Mission Anne Arundel County is a national hub for cybersecurity, defense technology, and advanced information systems. Anchored by Fort George G. Meade, the county is home to leading federal agencies, including the National Security Agency, U.S. Cyber Command, and Defense Information Systems Agency.

This unique concentration of mission, talent, and infrastructure has created one of the nation’s most dynamic ecosystems for cybersecurity, data analytics, artificial intelligence, data science, and defense innovation—supporting both national security missions and commercial technology applications.

With more than 2,100 technology companies and over 23,000 tech professionals, Anne Arundel County offers companies the resources, partnerships, and strategic location needed to grow across national security and commercial technology markets.

Why Choose Anne Arundel County for Cyber & Technology Anne Arundel County provides a powerful environment for companies focused on cybersecurity, defense technologies, data analytics, data science, and emerging digital systems. Direct access to Fort Meade and major defense agencies Dense concentration of federal contractors and technology firms Premier location & connectivity 30 minutes to Washington, D. C.

and Baltimore Access to Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport Close proximity to the Port of Baltimore and major interstate corridors A highly skilled workforce 47.

8% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher Strong pipeline of cyber-ready and security-cleared professionals Workforce partnerships with regional universities and training institutions supporting cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and data science disciplines A thriving technology ecosystem 2,118 technology companies across cyber, IT, AI, analytics, data science, and advanced manufacturing More than 23,000 tech jobs $11.

3 billion economic impact in the technology sector AAEDC works directly with cyber and technology companies to support growth in Anne Arundel County through financing programs, workforce resources, strategic partnerships, site selection assistance, and tailored one-on-one guidance from our Business Development team.

Learn More About AAEDC Cybersecurity Explore Available Commercial Properties Anne Arundel County offers a wide range of commercial real estate options for technology companies, including secure office environments, innovation space, and proximity to defense installations. Start by connecting with our team so we can help identify sites aligned with your operational needs.

Businesses can also explore available properties using the county’s online search tool. Funding & Incentives for Cyber & Technology Companies Anne Arundel County offers a range of financing programs, grants, and tax incentives designed to help cybersecurity and technology companies grow, innovate, and compete for contracts.

AAEDC’s Next Stage Tech Fund provides flexible, below-market financing to help cybersecurity and technology companies expand operations and strengthen their role in the defense and cyber ecosystem. Loans ranging from $50,000 to $250,000 can support working capital, equipment, leasehold improvements, and operational growth.

Learn More About Next Stage Cybersecurity Compliance Support Technology companies working with the Department of Defense must meet cybersecurity requirements, such as: Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) NIST SP 800-171 security standards Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) Funding programs like the Next Stage Tech Fund can help offset costs related to cybersecurity infrastructure, certification preparation, and compliance investments required to compete for federal contracts.

Additional Funding Sources Technology companies in Anne Arundel County may also be eligible for a variety of state and regional programs, including loans, grants, and tax credits that support innovation, workforce development, and research partnerships.

Tech Workforce & Talent Pipeline Anne Arundel County’s technology workforce is supported by strong educational institutions and workforce development programs that help companies recruit and train skilled professionals.

Workforce training grants for technology companies Customized cybersecurity and IT training programs Internship and apprenticeship programs connecting businesses with students Talent pipelines through regional universities and training centers AAEDC works closely with workforce partners to help companies build and scale their teams.

Resources for Cyber & Tech Businesses AAEDC connects cybersecurity and technology companies to trusted partners and resources that support innovation, growth, and long-term success — from financing and workforce development to government contracting guidance and commercialization support.

Businesses can access a wide range of programs and services designed to help navigate the defense and technology ecosystem, strengthen operations, and scale within the region’s cybersecurity and national security industries. Supportive, inclusive space for entrepreneurs and the community to gather and connect. Educating, Inspiring and Connecting Entrepreneurs every Wednesday morning.

AAEDC Financing Programs & Tax Incentives Loans, financing programs, and tax incentives to support businesses starting, relocating, or expanding in Anne Arundel County. AAEDC Next Stage Tech Fund Flexible, below-market loans from $50,000–$250,000 to help Anne Arundel County technology companies move from early traction to sustained growth.

Offers innovative product companies up to $100,000 loans with flexible underwriting standards and payment terms of up to ten years that allow for revenue growth, workforce expansion, and future equity investment. AFCEA – Central Maryland Chapter Local AFCEA chapter serving the Central Maryland region’s defense, intelligence, and technology community.

Connects government, industry, and academia around technology, defense, intelligence, and cybersecurity. Baltimore Region Tech Hub Nationally designated tech hub focused on predictive health technologies and equitable health outcomes. Biotechnology Investment Incentive Tax Credit (BIITC) Offers income tax credits to investors in qualified Maryland biotechnology companies.

Build Our Future Grant Program Offers matching grants (up to $2 million) for projects that transform Maryland’s strategic industry sectors. Buy Maryland Cybersecurity (BMC) Tax Credit Encourages Maryland businesses to purchase cybersecurity products and services from qualified in-state providers.

Data Center Maryland Sales & Use Tax Exemption Exempts qualifying data center personal property from Maryland sales and use tax to spur investment and job creation. Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) Acquisition Page Includes updates on DISA conferences and events, small business programs, and upcoming solicitations.

View All Cyber/Tech Resources Build Your Technology Advantage in Anne Arundel County Whether you are launching a cybersecurity startup, expanding a government contracting firm, or bringing new data-driven or technology-enabled solutions to market across government and commercial sectors, Anne Arundel County offers mission access, a highly skilled workforce, and the resources to support your success.

AAEDC’s team works directly with companies to connect them to sites, funding, partnerships, and workforce solutions that help businesses grow. Thank You to Our 2026 Annual Partners