Study will identify opportunities and diversify client bases for defense-dependent companies
Baltimore, MD (May 9, 2016) – The Maryland Department of Commerce, in partnership with the Regional Economic Studies Institute (RESI) at Towson University, is surveying Maryland companies to identify those receiving U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) funding and to determine the impact of that funding on the state’s defense industry. The survey, which is being conducted by RESI, is financed through a grant from the DoD Office of Economic Adjustment.
“Maryland ranks among the top five states in the U.S. for defense spending,” said Commerce Secretary Mike Gill. “As the federal budget contracts, Maryland is taking steps to help defense-dependent businesses broaden their markets, expand their client base, and remain economically viable. Those steps, in turn, will help ensure that the economies of communities surrounding military installations remain stable. I encourage Maryland companies to take part in this survey.”
Military commands in the state play integral roles in homeland security and defense, chemical-biological research, cybersecurity, aerospace, and other federal activities. In addition, defense is an important sector for Maryland’s economy, with military installations representing 17 percent of the state’s GDP. The economic impact of the bases increased from $36 billion in 2008 to more than $57 billion in 2012, according to an economic impact study conducted by RESI for Commerce. The installations support more than 410,200 jobs in the state.
The survey will provide Commerce with a clearer picture of how Maryland businesses could be affected by federal defense budget uncertainties. Data collected from the survey and from defense spending sources will map the state’s defense supply chain, tracking the flow of contract dollars from the DoD to prime and subcontractors. Survey respondents will be part of the Maryland Defense Network, comprising Maryland companies, economic development professionals, and policymakers. The network will enable users to track and analyze the data using a geographic interface, customizable charting, and other interactive components.
Through May, more than 8,000 Maryland businesses will be contacted. To obtain additional information or to participate in the survey, contact John Stovall, Commerce’s coordinator of defense industry outreach,
John.Stovall@Maryland.gov, or 410.767.3701.
About Maryland Commerce
The Maryland Department of Commerce stimulates private investment and creates jobs by attracting new businesses, encouraging the expansion and retention of existing companies, and providing financial assistance to Maryland companies. The Department promotes the State's many economic advantages and markets local products and services at home and abroad to spur economic development and international investment, trade and tourism. Because they are major economic generators, the Department also supports the Arts, film production, sports and other special events. For more information, visit
commerce.maryland.gov.
