USMSM’s approval as a qualified RISE institution on October 27, 2026, marks a pivotal moment in linking higher education, industry, and regional economic development.
On October 27, 2026, the University System of Maryland at Southern Maryland (USMSM) achieved approval as a qualified institution under Maryland’s Regional Institution Strategic Enterprise (RISE) Zone program.
Notably, USMSM is the first regional higher-education center in Maryland to qualify as a RISE institution. This milestone brings Southern Maryland into a statewide economic development initiative aimed at spurring business investment, innovation, and job growth in areas tied to eligible higher-education and research institutions.
As of July 1, 2026, the Maryland Economic Development Corporation (MEDCO) administers the RISE Zone program (Maryland Economic Development Corporation, 2026). Eligible businesses within approved zones may benefit from state filing-fee waivers, priority consideration for Build Our Future grants, enhanced biotech investor tax credits, and other incentives (Maryland Economic Development Corporation, 2026).
For Southern Maryland, USMSM’s qualification offers an opportunity to leverage the region’s strengths in aerospace, defense, engineering, autonomous systems, advanced technology, and workforce development. Situated within the AeroPark Innovation District in St. Mary’s County, USMSM acts as a primary academic and technology anchor, strengthening connections among employers, educational programs, and innovation-driven industries.
(ST Mary’s County GIS Map, St. Mary's County Government, 2026)
USMSM’s approval as a qualified institution is a crucial first step, but it does not mean a RISE Zone has already been established. As a result, the USMSM RISE Zone Roundtable has begun planning the zone application and identifying potential acreage.
If you have any questions, please contact us at marketing.usmsm@umd.edu.
Story written by Briana Dawson, MPH - Communications, Outreach, and Marketing Coordinator, USMSM