Build the next chapter of your business
You’ve already taken the first step—turning an idea into something real.
Now it’s time to grow with clarity, confidence, and the right support behind you.
The M&T Small Business Accelerator in Frederick County, MD is a weeks-long program designed to help you strengthen your strategy, deepen your financial knowledge, and position your business for what’s next.
LOCATION
Frederick County, MD
This Program is 100% Virtual
Final Pitch Competition Will Be In-Person | Location TBD
APPLICATION DATE
Now - August 23, 2026
Applications are limited and accepted on a first come, first served basis.
ATTENDANCE
In-person required
Classes run every Wednesday, 5-6:30 pm ET
Beginning: September 9, 2026
Ending: November 18, 2026
LIVE PITCH COMPETITION
on or around
November 11th, 2026
Prizes:
1st place - $5,000
2nd place - $3,000
3rd place - $2,000
Turn momentum into meaningful growth
Running a business means constantly moving forward—adapting, learning, and making decisions that shape what comes next.
This program is designed to support that journey by helping you:
Refine your business strategy with practical, actionable guidance
Strengthen your financial foundation and understanding of credit
Build a brand that stands out in a competitive market
Prepare for growth opportunities, including access to capital
What you’ll gain
Build a plan that works
Turn your ideas into a structured business plan grounded in your goals, your industry, and your financial realities.
Use credit with confidence
Learn how credit impacts your business, and how to approach financing with greater clarity and preparation.
Strengthen your brand
Develop a stronger presence in your market with insights into marketing, positioning, and customer engagement.
Pitch with purpose
Prepare to confidently present your business—whether you’re seeking funding, partnerships, or your next opportunity.
What you’ll gain
Build a plan that works
Turn your ideas into a structured business plan grounded in your goals, your industry, and your financial realities.
Use credit with confidence
Learn how credit impacts your business, and how to approach financing with greater clarity and preparation.
Strengthen your brand
Develop a stronger presence in your market with insights into marketing, positioning, and customer engagement.
Pitch with purpose
Prepare to confidently present your business—whether you’re seeking funding, partnerships, or your next opportunity.
What to expect
This program celebrates and empowers locally owned small businesses through education and spirited competition. This 10-week program will be held online
This program is 100% virtual via Cisco Webex
This program is delivered in partnership with the Frederick County Office of Economic Development and is designed to bring together a group of small business owners in Frederick, MD.
- Format: 100% virtual via Cisco Webex
Schedule: Weekly classes, Wednesdays from 6–8 PM ET
Program duration: September 9 – November 18, 2026
Is this program right for you?
The Small Business Accelerator is designed for business owners who are ready to build on their progress and take the next step forward.
You may be a good fit if you:
- Operate a business located in Frederick County and surrounding areas
- Have been in business between 2–5 years
- Generate approximately $50,000–$500,000 in annual revenue
See Terms and Conditions for full eligibility requirements.
Yes, the businesses located in Frederick County, MD or surronding areas. See Terms and Conditions.
To qualify, the principal owner must be 18 years or older, business located in Frederick County, MD & surronding areas, be in business between 2-5 years with an annual revenue of $50,000-$500,000. See Terms and Conditions.
At M&T, we understand what it takes to build something meaningful.
That’s why we’re committed to supporting business owners with the tools, resources, and guidance to move forward—at every stage of the journey.
