FITCI’s mission is to encourage technological innovation and accelerate the development of commercially viable businesses in Frederick. As a business incubator and accelerator, FITCI helps local entrepreneurs take charge of their future. It is Frederick’s premier science and technology incubator and accelerator, with 93% of FITCI startups becoming successful businesses. That translates to 200+ companies launched over the years, creating more than 1,000 jobs in turn, and contributing millions to the local economy.
An interview with April Bartel, Marketing Assistant for FITCI
Tell us how FITCI was born.
Nonprofit FITCI started in 2004 in a small office at Hood College. It is a public-private effort between local governments, educational institutions, private industry, and passionate citizens to enhance economic development while helping individuals fulfill their highest career potential.
Early success led FITCI to larger quarters at 4539 Metropolitan Court. The space features both traditional offices and fully outfitted wet labs designed for emerging science-based companies. In 2018, FITCI joined ROOT at 118 N. Market St., as part of a centralized collection of business resources, including the Chamber of Commerce and OED offices. This second location is where FITCI tech-preneurs collaborate and thrive in a modern, creative space downtown. Now, FITCI is poised to grow again, reinforcing its vital contributions to Frederick’s thriving Life Science and Technology industries. Follow FITCI’s plan to expand its footprint and service base at www.FITCI.org
What makes FITCI unique?
FITCI is not a traditional incubator. Startups get so much more than office space, including individualized coaching, meaningful connections, and access to broad resources, like grant and investment opportunities. FITCI’s Strategic Growth and Advisory Board is a singular asset for members. It creates a dynamic relationship among emerging companies and proven business leaders who serve as a dedicated board of advocates, offering guidance through the challenges of early-stage development and growth.
Behind every startup who joins FITCI is an individual with a dream and a passion to make their mark on the world. They may be parents (or grandparents), veterans, scientists, recent graduates or starting their second career. They may be immigrants or Frederick natives with deep roots here. They come from many different backgrounds, but each represents an interconnected network of family, friends, and neighbors, because no success happens in a vacuum. As their businesses grow, adding employees, interns, and partners, or attracting investors, the ripples of opportunity extend even further. This is the way we build a community, ensuring that Frederick remains vibrant and economically healthy well into the future.
How can members of the community support FITCI?
As a nonprofit, FITCI’s volunteers, donors, and supporters are the lifeblood of the organization. Their zeal and generosity make everything possible. We welcome interest from others who care about cultivating a healthy business environment in Frederick; whether you are a seasoned business leader with a calling to share your hard-earned acumen as a mentor, an active professional interested in becoming a Business Resource Partner or a visionary investor who understands the importance of building a strong ecosystem. Let’s explore creative ways to support this community together.
What does FITCI do best?
FITCI is known for tough love from proven growth fanatics who help scientists and entrepreneurs get the direction they need to grow and scale a business. Members benefit from founder-focused programming, targeted training, networking opportunities and more in a collaborative environment. Access to the Strategic Growth and Advisory Board gives members the inside track on what it really takes to run a successful business while exploring creative ways to turn challenges into opportunities and building their own supportive network.
Despite a pandemic, FITCI’s membership roster grew by 22 companies between July 2020 and June 2021. Today we serve more than 70. And that demand is projected to double over the next few years. This exciting initiative builds upon the momentum of our last five years with plans for a new location, outfitted with top-notch laboratory facilities and expanded amenities, including a substantial collaborative community space, among a group of partners and established entities, creating a truly united intersection of enterprise in Frederick.
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Frederick Chamber Insights is a news outlet of the Frederick County Chamber of Commerce. For more information about membership, programs and initiatives, please visit our website.