The Maryland Department of Commerce has launched the Maryland Defense Network (MDN), an interactive online tool that maps defense spending in the state. Maryland is typically among the top 10 states in the nation for defense spending, ranking sixth for fiscal 2016. The MDN helps companies expand and diversify their customer base, identify opportunities to partner with prime contractors and gain information on expiring Department of Defense (DoD) contracts.
“The defense sector is an important component of Maryland’s economy, with the DoD awarding more than $13.4 billion to Maryland companies in 2016 alone,” said Maryland Commerce Secretary Mike Gill. “The Maryland Defense Network is a valuable tool for defense contractors, companies interested in competing in the defense community — and for economic developers and policymakers — and helps our businesses stay in sync with evolving defense priorities.”
Created with input from regional focus groups, including economic development professionals, industry partners and defense contractors, the MDN is accessible through a secure website, MarylandDefenseNetwork.org. Registering with MDN offers several advantages, including the following.
• Small and mid-sized businesses will appear in searches conducted by prime defense contractors, gaining exposure and access to subcontracting opportunities.
• Prime contractors may use the network to develop a pool of potential subcontractors to satisfy contract obligations.
• Companies of all sizes are able to directly connect with defense agencies to compete for contracts.
• Economic development professionals and research analysts are able to explore the impact of defense spending in Maryland, as well as other data.
The project, funded through a grant from the DoD’s Office of Economic Adjustment to the Maryland Department of Commerce, was developed in partnership with Towson University’s Regional Economic Studies Institute.