PRESS RELEASE: November 28, 2023
Baltimore Together 2023 Progress Report Unveiled at the Second Annual Summit
Key Leaders and Community Members Gathered to Celebrate Significant Achievements and Forward Movement in Baltimore’s Economic Development Plan
Baltimore, MD - The Baltimore Development Corporation (BDC) announces the release of the Baltimore Together 2023 Progress Report, marking a significant stride in Baltimore City’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS). The report was spotlighted at the 2023 Baltimore Together Summit, a gathering of some of Baltimore City's and the region’s most influential community, government, and corporate voices focused on building inclusive economic development.
Held at the new M&T Bank Exchange at the Hippodrome Theatre at the France-Merrick Performing Arts Center on October 30, 2023, the summit brought together a diverse group of leaders, including Dr. Andre M. Perry, Senior Fellow at Brookings Metro, Regina Hammond, Founder and Executive Director, Rebuild Johnston Square, Under Armour CEO Stephanie Linnartz, Secretary of Housing & Community Development Jake Day, and Adeline Wheless-Hutchinson, President, Greater Mondawmin Coordinating Council. The event celebrated the city's collaborative achievements in fostering an inclusive economic environment and set the stage for future initiatives.
“Baltimore Together is not just a plan; it’s the heartbeat of our city,” expressed Colin Tarbert, President & CEO of the Baltimore Development Corporation. “As the convenor of this initiative, we at BDC are honored to facilitate this journey towards an inclusive and vibrant economy. It's a testament to Baltimore's collective spirit and resilience, bringing together every individual and institution in our region.”
Two years ago, the city of Baltimore adopted Baltimore Together as its comprehensive economic development strategy. Its central goal is to address long-standing racial inequities and expand economic opportunity for all people in Baltimore. This plan is the north star, guiding the work of the Mayor, BDC, and many partners committed to generating economic growth in Baltimore.
The opening day of the 2023 Summit, now available for viewing here, saw registrations surpass 650, prompting a venue change to accommodate more guests, and over 850 individuals joined via live stream. Throughout the week, 11 workshops were conducted across the city, focusing on pivotal topics crucial to Baltimore's economic development and growth. Day one of the summit and subsequent workshops collectively drew the participation of 700 attendees, further emphasizing the community's engagement and interest in shaping the city’s economic future.
The Baltimore Together 2023 Progress Report, available to read here, outlines key strategies for economic growth, focusing on collaboration, strategic investments, and leveraging local assets to address competitive imbalances. It represents a concerted effort to drive economic prosperity in a manner that includes all Baltimoreans.
Baltimore Together belongs to the entire city and relies on shared work from every individual and institution in our region. To learn more about how you or your organization can get involved in building an inclusive and vibrant economy for Baltimore City, please email baltimoretogether@justeconomy.com.
About the Baltimore Development Corporation (BDC)
The BDC is the economic development agency for the City of Baltimore. Our mission is to grow the city’s economy in an inclusive manner by retaining, expanding, and attracting businesses and promoting investment, thereby increasing career opportunities for residents.
About Baltimore Together
Baltimore Together: A Platform for Inclusive Prosperity is a culmination of a two-year process to develop the city’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) for the next five years. During this process, we gathered insights, feedback, and recommendations from more than 300 diverse voices representing business, government, and community. However, this is much more than a report; this effort represents a commitment to driving economic growth in an inclusive and equitable manner to ensure everyone has the opportunity for success.
Media Contact: Gina Richmond, Bloomtopia, gina@bloomtopia.com
