Winners Of EaS-E Business Plan Competition Announced

The Howard County Economic Development Authority announced the winners of the EaS-E Business Plan Competition during its three-year anniversary celebrations for the EDA's Center for Business and Technology Development.

Co-sponsored by Allfirst Bank (a division of Manufacturers and Traders Trust Company), Howard County Economic Development Authority, and Jim Rouse Entrepreneurial Fund (JREF), the EaS-E Business Plan Competition is an area-wide annual competition designed to promote the importance of planning for the early stage entrepreneur. The competition also works to highlight the connection between developing a strong business plan and receiving financing.

This year's winners are:



1st Place: Wilmer's Park Renaissance

Bruce Chatman, Chief Executive Officer

Wilmer's Park is an historical concert venue in Southern Maryland. The Arthur W. Wilmer Foundation, LLC, which was established in November 2002, desires to purchase, renovate and operate the entire 80-acre tract of land, renaming it Wilmer's Park Renaissance.



2nd Place: holy matrimony

Vicky and John Johnson, Owners

Owned by Vicky and John Johnson, holy matrimony is a full-scale bridal service firm operating out of the couple's home in Gwynn Oak, Maryland. holy matrimony is presently expanding into a retail storefront.



3rd Place: CAE Business

Consulting - Carol Egan, Owner

CAE Business Consulting provides both short- and long-term business planning services to small service-oriented businesses in Central Maryland.