Baltimore Tech Hub’s Future Brightens as Kory Bailey Insists on Possibility Despite EDA Decision

• Baltimore Tech Hub not selected for Phase 2 funding by EDA, but still possible
• Community in Baltimore rallied together after the decision, emphasizing collaboration and partnership
• UpSurge Baltimore leading efforts to support Tech Hubs program with ambitious projects
• Call for public and private sector leaders to actively participate and provide significant funding for Baltimore Tech Hub
• Emphasis on collective impact and the need for sustained momentum to secure future federal funding

Building Towards the Baltimore Tech Hub Vision

In the realm of technological innovation and economic development, the concept of the Baltimore Tech Hub has been a beacon of hope for many in the region. Despite the recent setback of not receiving Phase 2 funding from the US Economic Development Administration, there is still optimism and determination among the tech community to make the Baltimore Tech Hub a reality. Kory Bailey, a prominent figure in the tech ecosystem, has been a vocal advocate for the Tech Hub and continues to champion the cause.

Rallying Together in the Face of Adversity

The news of Baltimore not being selected for Phase 2 funding could have been disheartening, but the response from the tech community was quite the opposite. In true Baltimore fashion, over 60 tech founders, leaders, and community members gathered to show resilience and solidarity. This gathering at Equitech on July 2, 2024, highlighted the spirit of collaboration and determination that defines the Baltimore tech scene.

Kory Bailey emphasizes the importance of partnership and collaboration in Maryland, stating that no significant challenges can be overcome or opportunities seized in isolation. The power of diverse voices, data-driven decision-making, and community engagement is recognized as essential in building a thriving tech ecosystem. Bailey underscores the need for sustained effort and collective action to propel the Baltimore Tech Hub forward.

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Unleashing Collective Impact for the Future

As the ecosystem builder for the Baltimore Tech Hub, UpSurge Baltimore has been instrumental in fostering collaboration and driving innovation in the region. The consortium, comprised of 48+ organizations and institutions, has crafted ambitious projects aimed at leveraging the intersection of biotech, AI, and predictive healthcare to propel Baltimore to the forefront of technological advancement.

The vision for the Baltimore Tech Hub extends beyond just infrastructure and technology. It encompasses a commitment to nurturing a diverse and dynamic community of entrepreneurs, startups, and a highly skilled workforce. The goal is to create an ecosystem that not only fosters innovation but also promotes inclusivity and equity, ensuring that all members of the community have the opportunity to thrive.

Call to Action: Embracing the Future of Tech in Baltimore

Looking ahead to the future, Kory Bailey and the team at UpSurge Baltimore are calling on public and private sector leaders to fully commit to the vision of the Baltimore Tech Hub. The upcoming opportunity to secure a share of the $4 billion in federal funding in 2025 requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders. Bailey emphasizes the need for active participation and significant investment to drive the Tech Hub forward.

While the recent decision by the EDA may have been a setback, the spirit of resilience and collaboration exhibited by the Baltimore tech community signals that the vision of the Baltimore Tech Hub is still very much alive. With continued dedication, partnership, and a collective commitment to innovation, Baltimore has the potential to emerge as a leading tech hub, driving economic growth and opportunity for all.