Twelve entrepreneurs graduated from the Talbot Works Business Academy on March 24 during a presentation before the Talbot County Council, marking a milestone for the program, which has now served 50 businesses.
The participants in Cohort IV represent the breadth of Talbot County’s economy, from healthcare and tourism to marine services and retail, proving that small business growth is not limited to one sector, but driving strength across the entire community.
“Growth doesn’t happen by chance. It happens by design,” said Cassandra M. Vanhooser, director of economic development and tourism for Talbot County. “That’s exactly what this program is built to do—give business owners the tools, confidence, and support they need to compete and succeed.”
Now in its third year, the Talbot Works Business Academy is delivering measurable results. Participants from the first three cohorts have reinvested nearly $600,000 into their operations, expanding inventory, upgrading equipment, strengthening marketing, and positioning for growth. Graduates also have created jobs, launched new ventures, and secured large contracts.
“Small businesses are not just part of our economy. They are the backbone of our communities,” Vanhooser said. “And tonight, we celebrate 12 more entrepreneurs who are building something stronger, for themselves, their families, and for Talbot County.”
The evening’s program also featured remarks from program facilitator Will Holmes and graduate Kevin Rosenthal, who shared insight into the program’s impact.
“The deliverables of this program are your expansion plan and the knowledge, tools, and access to experts that empower business owners like us to produce a plan that’s implementable,” said Rosenthal, co-owner of Nightingale DPC, LLC. “My experience with the Talbot Works Business Academy equipped me with the knowledge and tools necessary to overcome the challenges that our expansion will present.”
Cohort IV graduates include Stephanie Doeler, All in the Mix Bakeshop; Dustin Good, C.J. Weisman Balancing LLC; Patricia King, Gluten Free Bakery Girl; Elizabeth Kelly, Sanctuary Interiors LLC; LaShelle Lewis, Shelly’s Passionate Care; Sandra Maier, Roma Wedding Updos; Michael Meier, The Snuggery Inn & Suites, St. Michaels; Dylan Mathias, Mathias Marine LLC; Joshua Richardson, Richardson Marine Repair, Inc.; Kevin Rosenthal, Nightingale DPC LLC; Marguerite Spies, St. Michaels Winery; and Van Topjian, The Market Loft at Dover Station.
The Talbot Works Business Academy is a free, eight-week program designed to help small and minority-owned businesses scale, compete, and succeed in today’s economy. It is funded in part by the Mid-Shore Regional Council and serves as a cornerstone of the county’s efforts to support small business growth and long-term economic vitality.
For more information about this and other programs offered by the Talbot County Department of Economic Development and Tourism, visit TalbotWorks.org or call 410-770-8000.
More Photos from Cohort 4’s Graduation
