Overview
A multi-year inward investment initiative led by the State of Maryland to attract high-growth technology companies from Western Europe into the US market. The programme focused on supporting international companies to establish and scale operations in Maryland across priority sectors including AI, cybersecurity, fintech, life sciences, and quantum computing
Challenge
Western European technology companies face increasing barriers to US market entry, including regulatory complexity, market access challenges, talent acquisition, and uncertainty around site selection and incentives as well as competition from other States. Maryland sought to strengthen its position as a leading US destination for international innovation-driven investment
Approach
A proactive, market-led inward investment strategy was developed and delivered across the UK, France, and Germany. This included targeted company engagement, strategic partnerships with regional and industry clusters, and close coordination with Maryland’s Department of Commerce to position Maryland as a leader in the focus sectors.
Key activities included:
- Strategic advisory support to international companies evaluating US expansion
- Design and delivery of Governor-led business delegations to the UK and Europe
- Execution of state-funded accelerator and soft-landing programmes for inward investors
- Formal collaboration through Memoranda of Understanding with European regions and industry bodies
- On-the-ground support covering market entry strategy, site selection, incentives, talent, and ecosystem access
Results & Impact
Between 2019 and 2025, the initiative delivered significant economic impact for the State of Maryland:
- 50+ international companies established operations in Maryland
- 300+ high-skilled jobs created across priority technology sectors
- 8 Memoranda of Understanding signed with Western European regional and sector clusters
- Launch of a first-of-its-kind state-funded inward investment accelerator programme Maryland Innovation Lab.
- Strengthened long-term trade and investment relationships between Maryland and Western Europe
Participating companies successfully entered the US market with clear routes to growth, while Maryland enhanced its international reputation as a competitive, innovation focused destination for global investment.
