Baltimore, January 9, 2026
Candidates for Maryland’s Districts 40 and 45 are advocating for strategies aimed at enhancing support for Baltimore’s Black-owned businesses. The proposals focus on reducing economic disparities and empowering entrepreneurs through improved access to capital, mentorship, and community engagement. With the backdrop of ongoing economic challenges, these initiatives reflect a commitment to fostering a vibrant business ecosystem in historically underserved communities.
Strengthening Baltimore’s Black-Owned Businesses: District 40 and 45 Candidates Propose Impactful Strategies
Local candidates are prioritizing initiatives to support economic growth and address disparities within the community.
Baltimore, MD – The conversation surrounding the revitalization of Baltimore’s Black-owned businesses is gaining momentum as candidates for Maryland’s Districts 40 and 45 outline their strategies. With a shared mission to confront the economic disparities that have persisted in these communities, the candidates are proposing innovative solutions aimed at empowering entrepreneurs and fostering sustainable growth. This approach not only highlights the resilience of local business owners but also suggests that reduced red tape could significantly bolster the entrepreneurial spirit in these neighborhoods.
The initiatives discussed by the candidates come at a vital time, as Baltimore City grapples with the challenges associated with economic inequities. Encouragingly, these proposals reflect a commitment to innovation and support that could pave the way for a more vibrant business ecosystem. Through targeted investments and community engagement, the path to economic empowerment appears increasingly achievable.
Key Strategies Proposed by Candidates
District 40
- Marlon D. Amprey: The incumbent delegate emphasizes enhancing access to capital for Black entrepreneurs while advocating for supportive policies for minority-owned businesses. This initiative aims to address financial barriers directly, enabling more business ventures to thrive.
- Crystal Jackson Parker: Parker is emphasizing community engagement and mentorship programs. By investing in the future of Black business owners, she aims to empower them and strengthen economic resilience within the community.
- Tiffany Welch: Welch proposes the creation of a network of resources and support systems that address the unique challenges faced by Black businesses. Her focus is on facilitating growth and ensuring the sustainability of these enterprises.
District 45
- Dantwan Broady: Broady calls for increased investment in infrastructure and services that will directly benefit Black communities, highlighting the importance of supporting local businesses as part of a broader economic strategy.
- William A. Hamilton: Hamilton is concentrating on policy reforms intended to dismantle systemic barriers that hinder the success of Black entrepreneurs, aiming to create a more equitable business environment.
- Joe Richards: Richards is focused on fostering partnerships between local businesses and larger corporations to increase opportunities for Black-owned enterprises, enhancing their visibility and market reach.
Background Context
The diverse communities encompassed within Maryland’s Legislative Districts 40 and 45 have historically encountered significant economic challenges. Black-owned businesses in these areas have been disproportionately affected by limited access to capital, systemic discrimination, and inadequate infrastructure. The candidates’ proposed strategies represent a proactive approach to tackling these challenges and fostering economic empowerment within these communities.
Statewide Initiatives Supporting Black Businesses
Beyond the individual candidate proposals, Maryland is making strides at the state level. Governor Wes Moore has introduced the Maryland Community Business Compass, a data platform aimed at providing local entrepreneurs with expedited access to essential information, capital, and support. With a remarkable $10 million investment directed toward assisting small businesses in high-need communities, this initiative emphasizes the state’s commitment to supporting minority-owned enterprises.
Conclusion
The proactive discussions among candidates in Districts 40 and 45 reveal a unified commitment to strengthening Black-owned businesses through thoughtful policy and community engagement. Coupled with significant state-level initiatives, these efforts aspire to create a more inclusive economic landscape in Maryland. Local entrepreneurs and community members are encouraged to actively engage with these initiatives to help shape the future of their neighborhoods.
FAQ
What are the key strategies proposed by candidates in Districts 40 and 45 to support Black-owned businesses?
The candidates propose enhancing access to capital, community engagement, mentorship programs, infrastructure investment, policy reforms, and fostering partnerships between local businesses and larger corporations to support Black-owned enterprises.
Who are the candidates running in District 40 and 45?
In District 40, the candidates include Marlon D. Amprey, Crystal Jackson Parker, and Tiffany Welch. In District 45, the candidates are Dantwan Broady, William A. Hamilton, and Joe Richards.
What is the Maryland Community Business Compass initiative?
The Maryland Community Business Compass is a data platform launched by Governor Wes Moore to provide local entrepreneurs with faster access to information, capital, and support, aiming to bolster small businesses and high-need communities, particularly minority-owned enterprises.
How does the Maryland Community Business Compass initiative support Black-owned businesses?
The initiative includes a $10 million investment focused on supporting small businesses and high-need communities, with a particular emphasis on minority-owned enterprises, providing them with resources and opportunities to thrive.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| District 40 Candidates | Marlon D. Amprey, Crystal Jackson Parker, Tiffany Welch |
| District 45 Candidates | Dantwan Broady, William A. Hamilton, Joe Richards |
| Maryland Community Business Compass | A data platform launched by Governor Wes Moore to support small businesses and high-need communities, with a $10 million investment focusing on minority-owned enterprises |
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