Enterprises | University of Maryland Extension

Updated: November 20, 2025

Municipal Water Access for Adopt-A-Lot Program Participants & Establishing an Irrigation Account for Property Owners & Renters (EB-2024-0722)

Authors: Serena Taylor Newton

This publication provides step-by-step instructions for Adopt-A-Lot participants, property owners, and renters on how to access municipal water in Baltimore City, Maryland. Author: Serena Newton; Title: Municipal Water Access for Adopt-A-Lot Program Participants & Establishing an Irrigation Account for Property Owners & Renters (EB-2024-0722).

Updated: September 12, 2025

Agritourism

Agritourism—one of the fastest-growing segments of agricultural direct marketing—allows farmers to diversify their core operations and keep farmland in production while preserving scenic vistas and maintaining farming traditions. By providing authentic farm experiences for visitors, agritourism helps educate the public about the importance of agriculture to a community’s economic base, quality of life, history, and culture.

Updated: July 2, 2025

Cultivating Entrepreneurship

Thinking about starting or expanding an agricultural or food-related business but not sure where to start? Book an entrepreneurial coaching session with The University of Maryland’s Entrepreneurial Coaching Team for farm and food entrepreneurs.

Bulletion board with post it notes containing words for business planning.

Updated: May 28, 2025

Non-Traditional Sources

Explore the alternative sources of capital less than $50,000 that can be available for your business.

Hands depositing coins into a piggy bank.

Updated: May 28, 2025

Traditional Sources

Whether a new farmer/food entrepreneur, or an established operation, you’re probably going to need to finance some aspect of your business. There are various loan programs for farmers and food entrepreneurs. There are also some specific grant programs, but these are very specific and very competitive to obtain. Obtaining grants require a lot of work, often have delayed payments or require up-front investment, and are not a reliable source of income. This article provides guidance for evaluating if your needs qualify for the grant’s targeted outcomes and how best to apply for a grant.

Computer keyboard with a label "Grants & Loans"

Updated: May 28, 2025

Financial Matters

Discover the importance of financial planning for entrepreneurial success on our webpage. Whether you're starting a new venture or expanding your current operation, understanding your financial health is essential. Learn how to develop a solid business plan, make informed borrowing decisions, and prioritize your investments for long-term sustainability. Visit Financial Matters for valuable insights and resources that will help you navigate your financial journey effectively!

A stack of coins lined up on the ground, in front of vibrant green plants growing up through the soil.

Updated: March 28, 2025

MREDC Maryland County Contacts

County Offices provide local zoning, health, and business development resources and restrictions. On this page, you will find links to a variety of county-based agencies, offices, and organizations. Use these pages to 1.) Have access to current resources, 2). Determine which county agencies regulate your type of enterprise. 3). Develop a contact list of local business development contacts.

Updated: January 27, 2025

The Concept of Financial Education (FS-2024-0704)

Authors: Troy Anthony Anderson

This paper examines how financial education significantly influences individuals' ability to make informed decisions, enhancing their economic stability and social mobility in today's economy. By reviewing literature, such as Anderson (2023) and Walstad et al. (2017), the paper highlights the benefits of early financial education for young people in managing adult financial responsibilities. Despite progress, the study notes persistent limitations in financial education accessibility across states, leaving many households vulnerable due to inadequate financial literacy. Key goals of financial education include understanding personal finance, recognizing good and bad debt, and acquiring practical budgeting skills. The paper emphasizes the need for educational leaders to implement robust financial programs and mandate financial literacy classes in high schools. By developing benchmarks for measuring financial education effectiveness, the study underscores the necessity of widespread financial education to foster a financially savvy population capable of tackling economic challenges. Author: Troy Anthony Anderson; Title: The Concept of Financial Education (FS-2024-0704).

Updated: January 21, 2025

Rural and Urban Agriculture Census Data GIS Story Map

The University of Maryland Extension (UME) partnered with College of Information students to develop a GIS Story Map to analyze and illustrate changes in Maryland's agriculture from 1974 to 2022. This project focuses on trends in rural and urban agriculture, leveraging data from the USDA Agricultural Census and CropScape. The aim is to showcase agriculture's evolving role in Maryland, emphasizing its significance in a rapidly urbanizing state.

A picturesque Maryland farm featuring lush crop fields, a rustic silo, and a charming barn.

Updated: December 10, 2024

Horse Boarding Enterprise

If you’re looking for something that is predictable and never varies from day to day, do not get involved with horses! When horses are involved, you will never have a “normal” day again.