Rural Business Innovation Initiative (RBII)

About this program

Maryland Technology Development Corporation (TEDCO) administers the Rural Business Innovation Initiative (RBII) to provide no-cost, regionally delivered mentoring and targeted technical/business assistance to early-stage, technology-based companies in rural Maryland; companies that receive at least 90 days of RBII mentoring qualify to apply for up to $25,000 in pre-seed funding. Mentors assist with business and market strategy, competitive analysis, funding introductions, financials, IP review, prototype development, and manufacturing troubleshooting. Eligible applicants must operate in areas defined by the Rural Maryland Council, be developing or leveraging new technologies to grow their business, have fewer than 16 employees, annual revenues of $1 million or less, and be in good standing with the Maryland Department of Taxation & Assessments. To access services or apply for pre-seed funds, contact the RBII mentor assigned to your region via TEDCO’s website.