In 2001, as dotcoms throughout the country were downsizing, reorganizing or closing in record numbers, several organizations in Maryland decided to honor the success stories. As a result, Maryland Technology Development Corporation (TEDCO), RSM McGladrey, and Saul Ewing LLP founded the Maryland Incubator Company of the Year Awards. The goal was, and continues to be, to publicly recognize the accomplishments of current clients and graduates of Maryland’s incubators and to provide a forum for the nominees to increase their visibility in the business, technology, and investment communities.

Since 2001, the ICOY Awards have honored 33 new and early-stage companies (click here for Award Recipients from 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2006) for their achievements. Award Recipients have been selected from the biotechnology, computer technology, and pharmaceutical industries. In addition to the founders, the Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development (DBED) and the Maryland Business Incubation Association are strong supporters of the event.