Van Hollen, Cardin, U.S. Department of Commerce Announce $500,000 to Support Entrepreneurship and Research on Maryland’s Eastern Shore

Today, U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin (both D-Md.) and the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) announced a $500,000 grant to Eastern Shore Entrepreneurship Center in Easton, Maryland, to purchase, position, and equip two modular laboratories.

This grant will support the F3 Tech Agbiotech Bioreactors and Lab Equipment project, which will include two large-capacity bioreactors and related lab equipment. This EDA investment will be matched with $500,000 in local funds.

“Investing in the Eastern Shore Entrepreneurship Center will provide critical support to our local to small businesses and help spur regional economic growth. These federal dollars will bolster local entrepreneurs, innovators, startups, and existing businesses, providing key access to new laboratories so that they can leverage cutting-edge technology to develop new breakthroughs,” said Senator Chris Van Hollen.

“The Eastern Shore Entrepreneurship Center is leading cutting-edge research and technology that is advancing our major industries and protecting our natural resources. This federal investment will provide ESEC’s entrepreneurs, small businesses and startups with more tools to further their innovation and success,” said Senator Ben Cardin. “The strength of Maryland’s economy lies in innovation, and we’re continuing to invest in projects that are leading us into the future.”

“The Economic Development Administration plays an important role in supporting community-led economic development strategies,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. “We are pleased to partner with Eastern Shore Entrepreneurship Center to support research and development in agriculture, aquaculture, and environment cluster industries.”

“When we invest in entrepreneurship and innovation, we invest in our shared success. Today, we take an important step forward in our work to build out industries of the future, create jobs, and supercharge Maryland’s economy,” said Governor Wes Moore. “I thank the Biden-Harris Administration for their ironclad commitment to uplifting Maryland businesses and entrepreneurs. Together, we will make our state more competitive from Mountain Maryland to the Eastern Shore –  and everywhere in between.”