| Dear Friends & Partners,
As I wrap up my first full month as president & CEO of the BDC, I want to share a bit about what I’ve been focused on since stepping into this role. I’ve spent these first weeks listening to our staff, small businesses, community organizations, and partners across the city. Baltimore is full of people who care deeply about its future, and these conversations have reinforced one key truth: we have a big job on our hands to make reality stronger than perception in Baltimore. That means telling a new story. One that reflects the hard work, creativity, and innovation happening across every corner of this city, and backing it up with bold, equitable economic development. We are committed to ensuring every neighborhood, business, and community partner has a seat at the table as we shape Baltimore’s next chapter. Whether it’s major redevelopment projects or investments that strengthen small, women, minority and black-owned businesses, our focus is on building a thriving, inclusive economy that truly represents all of Baltimore. The road ahead will take collaboration, courage, and persistence, but I believe in Baltimore, and I believe in the people who call it home. I look forward to continuing to listen and to work alongside you to build the future our city deserves. Thank you for being part of this journey with us. Sincerely, |
Otis Rolley Talks Baltimore’s Bold Future
From the pages of the Baltimore Business Journal to the airwaves of WBAL’s TJ Smith Show, BDC’s new leader Otis Rolley is sharing his vision for Baltimore’s next chapter.
- In his recent Baltimore Business Journal feature, Otis outlined plans for a top-to-bottom review of BDC, focusing on driving investment not just downtown but also across historically overlooked neighborhoods, including Park Heights, Coppin Heights, East Baltimore, and Pigtown. Read the BBJ feature.
- Otis continued the conversation on The TJ Smith Show, sharing how partnerships, equity-driven investment, and community engagement will be central to building Baltimore’s next chapter. Listen to the interview.
📊 BDC Sponsored & Hosted Panel on Commercial District Data at Baltimore Data DayOn Friday, July 18th, Baltimore Development Corporation (BDC) sponsored and hosted a panel at Baltimore Data Day focused on the Commercial District Assessment (CDA) Initiative—a data-driven effort to measure the health of Baltimore’s commercial districts. The panel, moderated by Gabrielle Linder, Senior GIS Analyst at BDC, featured Ira Krowler (BDC), Kristen Speaker (Charles Street Development), and Patrick Terranova (Downtown Partnership of Baltimore), who shared their experiences and insights on using data to support economic growth across Baltimore. 🔗 Learn more about the CDA Initiative Baltimore Makers Spotlighted in the New York TimesWe were thrilled to help coordinate a recent New York Times Square Feet feature highlighting the Made in Baltimore business Hex Superette and partner Open Works. The article, “Factories Were Pushed Out of Cities. Their Return Could Revive Downtowns,” explores how zoning changes and the growing maker economy are helping small manufacturers thrive in urban neighborhoods like Baltimore. Hex’s Shane and Meaghan Carpenter, along with Open Works Executive Director Will Holman, shared how local makers are reshaping downtowns and driving economic resilience. Read the full article. Lexington Market: A Summer Shop Small DestinationLexington Market, a Baltimore landmark with a history spanning more than 200 years, continues to celebrate local food, community-rooted small businesses, and a welcoming space for all. In honor of National Independent Retailer Month this July, it’s the perfect time to make a staycation stop at this historic market and support the entrepreneurs who help define Baltimore’s unique flavor. Catch the recent WJZ Around Town with Alexus segment to see two featured businesses, Betty Lee’s Candy Dish and Sweet Peaz Southern Kitchen, that are keeping the market’s tradition alive and thriving. Watch the interviews here. Business Highlight: North American Wave Engine Corp.North American Wave Engine Corp. is revitalizing Baltimore’s aerospace industry by developing cutting-edge jet engines requiring no moving parts, designed and manufactured right here in the city. Inspired by Baltimore’s rich aviation history, Wave Engine Corp. is building on the legacy of companies like Martin Aircraft Company while creating the future of affordable, mass-producible aircrafts. With easy access to the Port of Baltimore, I‑95, and BWI, the company has found the ideal location to design, test, and scale its innovative propulsion technology. Learn more about Wave Engine Corp. |
