2014-2015 Year in Review

ContentsLetter from the Chair of the Board – Jerry Shapiro...............................................................................................................1

Letter from the Immediate Past Chair of the Board – Lisa Cines...........................................................................................2

Letter from the President & CEO – Georgette “Gigi” Godwin...............................................................................................3

Executive Summary...............................................................................................................................................................4

Board of Directors.................................................................................................................................................................5

Advocacy...............................................................................................................................................................................5

Signature Events....................................................................................................................................................................8

Business Awards Dinner....................................................................................................................................................8

Annapolis Legislative Reception........................................................................................................................................9

Public Safety Awards Luncheon.........................................................................................................................................9

GovConNet Procurement Conference.............................................................................................................................10

Annual Dinner.................................................................................................................................................................11

Programs and Member Services.........................................................................................................................................12

Member Exchange Meetings...........................................................................................................................................12

Economic Development..............................................................................................................................................12

GovConNet..................................................................................................................................................................13

Infrastructure and Land Use........................................................................................................................................14

Legislative Affairs.........................................................................................................................................................15

Small Business.............................................................................................................................................................16

Speed Consulting.............................................................................................................................................................17

Chamber After Hours......................................................................................................................................................17

Orientation......................................................................................................................................................................17

GovConNet..........................................................................................................................................................................17

GovConNet Council.........................................................................................................................................................17

GovConNet Institute........................................................................................................................................................17

On-sites Agency Visits.....................................................................................................................................................18

Initiatives.............................................................................................................................................................................19

Startup Maryland: MCCC Supports Entrepreneurs..........................................................................................................19

Global Trade: MCCC Connects Our Businesses to International Opportunities...............................................................19

Green Business Forum....................................................................................................................................................19

Montgomery County Chamber Community Foundation.....................................................................................................20

Veteran Institute for Procurement..................................................................................................................................20

Public Safety Scholarship Fund at Montgomery College.................................................................................................20

Green Business Certification Program.............................................................................................................................20

Communications Outreach..................................................................................................................................................21

Letter from the Chair of the Board – Jerry Shapiro

I thank Lisa Cines for her leadership and support during my year in-training. I welcome the opportunity to work with Chair-Elect Jim Young as we lead the Chamber and continue its excellent work.

The essence of a great place is a wonderful community - and the economic engine that drives a community is businesses. That is why I am 100% invested in our Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce.

Our Board is a strong group of leaders who are willing to share their knowledge and connections to help our community succeed. We come from a wide and diverse range of industries.

This Chamber leverages those connections through our advocacy, programs and events to the benefit of our member companies.

You can be involved by: Being an active member and inviting others to

join! Pledging to begin, expand or enhance your internship program for our local youth! Sharing what you know! We all benefit when we learn best practices from each other.

I am confident that as owners, employees and even interns, each one of us strives for success in our organizations, even when it is not easy. For me, the real measure of success is what you give, not what you get.

We have great resources in this Chamber, in the county and beyond. As your incoming Chair, I encourage all of you to connect with us. The community needs you to be engaged.

When we give of our time and our talent, the future will be secure for the generations to come. I look forward to working with you over the year ahead!

Sincerely,

Jerry Shapiro2015-2016 MCCC Chair of the BoardPresident, Shapiro & Duncan

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Letter from the Immediate Past Chair of the Board – Lisa Cines

When I first held the symbolic torch that was passed to me from my predecessor, I could not have imagined the year ahead and how I would grow and learn from the experience of serving as Chair of the Board. I thank the MCCC Board of Directors for your contributions to the Chamber and for granting me the opportunity to learn from you. Many of you have stepped up, spoken up, and contributed to the momentum of improving the business climate in Montgomery County and Maryland.

This past year had significant change, and with that came new opportunities: A new administration in Annapolis; Recommendations to improve the business climate in the state; A renewed emphasis on strategic economic development in Montgomery County; and The culmination of a true Public Private Partnership for the National Center for Veteran Institute for

Procurement.

It has been my privilege to be at the table, working with decision makers, helping to influence and shape the discussions that advance our county and state.

As a Board, we serve our diverse members by connecting various perspectives and experiences from across industries. Through the over 150 programs and events hosted by MCCC, we

Connect the right experts, To the right information, At the right time To generate growth.

Together, we press for positive change for a better business environment in Maryland.

My career has taken me around the country and given me national opportunities. But I have always been rooted here. I could not have predicted that my interest in shaping the future of Montgomery County would find such a productive outlet in the opportunities that presented themselves at MCCC throughout the year.

I was delighted to pass the torch to new Chair Jerry Shaprio who will continue our good work. Thank you for the opportunity to be a part of this team.

Sincerely,

Lisa Cines2015-2016 MCCC Immediate Past Chair of the BoardRegional Partner, Business Development & Marketing, Dixon Hughes Goodman, LLP

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Letter from the President & CEO – Georgette “Gigi” Godwin

Each year, the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) renews its commitment to support our members’ success. We lead, advocate, and connect as the voice of business to help you grow and thrive.

The mission extends beyond borders and makes our county a destination for opportunity. We shape the marketplace and look for opportunities to connect members to success. Together we put our strong regional economy on the nation’s map and on the world’s stage.

Our “2014-2015 Year In Review” catalogues the advocacy, events and programs that provide opportunities to strengthen Business to Business and Business to Government connections.

We recognized achievements of leaders in the community, our public safety personnel, and those who have made invaluable contributions to the work of MCCC and our community;

We forged relationships with newly elected officials and office holders;

We collaborated with numerous business organizations to influence change in federal, state, and local levels; and

We improved and built new opportunities for networking and business connections in the marketplace.

As a member-based advocacy organization, we rely on the input of members and the guidance of our Board of Directors to continue our work. We thank all of you who support our events, attend our meetings, provide valuable insights and ideas, and truly make Montgomery County and Maryland a great place to do business.

Sincerely,

Georgette “Gigi” GodwinPresident & CEO, MCCC

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Executive Summary

During FY 15 (July 1, 2014 - June 30, 2015), the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) continued to lead, advocate, and connect as the voice of business.

Highlights from MCCC 2014-2015 Membership:

Nearly 500 members 92% retention rate 60% are headquartered in Montgomery County 75% have 50 or fewer employees

Highlights from MCCC 2014-2015 programs and events:

Over 150 programs and events hosted annually 5 Signature Events with a cumulative total of over 3,800 attendees 47 speakers for 39 Member Exchange Meetings on Economic Development, GovConNet, Infrastructure

and Land Use, Legislative Affairs, and Small Business

MCCC’s advocacy focused on building relationships with elected officials new to office and in new positions and advocating for strategic capital investment, tax reform and measures to improve the business climate in Montgomery County, Maryland and the region to help our members succeed. Advocacy efforts resulted in

o The Purple Line moving forward,o Funding for WMATA and 8 Car Trains,o Improving the business climate at the state level, and o Modifying local legislation to mitigate the adverse impact on business.

In 2015, the Montgomery County Chamber Community Foundation (MCCCF)’s National Center for Veteran Institute for Procurement (VIP) program became a Public Private Partnership by receiving support from the federal, state and county governments.

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Board of Directors

The 2014-2015 MCCC Board of Directors included approximately 60 of the most dynamic and engaged members from diverse industries.

2014-2015 MCCC Board Leadership Chair of the Board: Lisa Cines, Regional Partner, Business Development & Marketing, Dixon Hughes

Goodman LLP Chair-Elect: Jerry Shapiro, President, Shapiro & Duncan, Inc. Immediate Past Chair: Chris Carpenito, CPA, Executive Vice President & CFO, HESS Construction

2014-2015 Board of Directors Meetings July 21, 2014

o MCCC 2014 Annual Board Retreat & Foundation VIP Golf Tournament at Lakewood Country Club September 17, 2014

o Board Meeting-Retreat Part II at Lakewood Country Club October 6, 2014

o Roundtable Discussion with Howard County Executive Ken Ulman October 29, 2014

o Guest Speaker: Todd Marks, President & CEO, Mindgrub Technologies LLC January 16, 2015

o Special Board Meeting on MCCC Advocacy February 18, 2015

o Business Roundtable with U.S. Congressman John Delaney (MD-6) February 25, 2015

o Guest Speaker: Secretary R. Michael Gill, Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development

April 14, 2015o Guest Speaker: Secretary Pete K. Rahn, Maryland Department of Transportation

April 29, 2015o Guest Speaker: Alexander J. Triantis, Dean, Robert H. Smith School of Business, University of

Maryland May 20, 2015

o Board Meeting at Smokey Glen Farm and Chamber After Hours & BBQ

Advocacy

MCCC advocates for strategic capital investment, tax reform and measures to improve the business climate in Montgomery County, Maryland and the region to help our members succeed.

Elected and Appointed Officials

For the 2014 General Election, MCCC invited candidates to complete an MCCC candidate questionnaire that was posted on the MCCC website. The November 2014 election created significant turnover in the Maryland General Assembly, two new members to the Montgomery County Council and a new Governor and administration. Congratulations letters were sent to winners. The 2015 MCCC Legislative Agenda focused on building relationships with elected and appointed officials new to their office or position.

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MCCC works with over 70 elected and appointed officials from the federal, state and county level on a regular basis. They are invited to MCCC Signature Events – including the Annual Annapolis Legislative Reception in January – and MCCC met with many of them in Member Exchange Meetings and one-on-one sessions to advance MCCC priorities throughout the year.

Testimony

Each year, MCCC testifies at the winter Montgomery County Delegation to the Maryland General Assembly Priorities Hearing and at the Montgomery County Operating Budget public hearing in the spring. In addition, MCCC prepares written and spoken testimony for individual pieces of legislation at the state and county level that are of particular interest to our members.

State of Maryland:

The Maryland General Assembly 2015 Legislative Session took place January 14 through April 13, 2015. Over 2,200 bills were introduced. MCCC monitored over 100 bills and testified (written or in person) on over 60 individual bills.

MCCC supported the following bills that passed: Augustine Commission bills (restructure DBED, Apprenticeship Program, Impact on Small Business, Tech

Transfer, Customer Service Training) Increasing Veteran Owned Business participation in State procurement Ensuring taxes paid by online consumers were remitted to the State (Vetoed by the Governor) Preserving numerous business and R&D tax credits for strategic enterprises Studying the use of WMATA by Maryland riders

Additional highlights include MCCC President & CEO Georgette “Gigi” Godwin’s testimony at a joint Economic Matters and Budget and Taxation Committee hearing on five pieces of legislation introduced as a result of the Augustine Commission recommendations. All were passed into law.

MCCC opposed the following bills that were defeated: Combined Reporting Repeal of the Motor Fuel Tax A roll back of the recoupled estate tax Earned Sick and Safe leave

After over a decade of advocacy and, more recently, a months-long focus to make the economic development case for the Purple Line to the new administration, Governor Hogan announced on June 25, 2015, that the Purple Line will move forward. MCCC reached out to the Prince George’s Chamber of Commerce to communicate in a coordinated fashion with the Governor and Secretary of Transportation Pete K. Rahn on the importance of connecting our two counties with the Purple Line. MCCC wrote multiple letters and appeared at numerous events to promote the collaboration and mutual benefits of the project.

Montgomery County:

Isiah “Ike” Leggett was sworn in for a third term as Montgomery County Executive and George Leventhal was elected President of the Montgomery County Council.

2014-2015 MCCC testimony to the County Council resulted in significant changes to:

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Environmental bills (Benchmarking) Ban the Box Earned Sick and Safe Leave Minimum Wage Effective Dates

2014-2015 MCCC provided testimony and/or comment on land use including: Aspen Hill Minor Master Plan Subdivision Regulation Amendment (SRA) 15 01 Independent Transit Authority

Additional testimony on: Fuel Energy Tax as part of the FY 16 Operating Budget Economic Development Reorganization

MCCC provided input to the County Executive, County Council, and Board of Education on: Planning Board Chair appointment, Planning Board Commissioner selection MCPS Superintendent search MC Department of Transportation Director MC Department of Economic Development reorganization

Federal:

MCCC worked with the U.S. Small Business Administration to extend a comment period on a significant proposed rule changes on limitations on subcontracting and the mentor protégé program so that more businesses could provide valuable input.

Collaboration

This year, MCCC wrote Letters of Support for the following: Suburban Hospital Certificate of Need Comcast Time Warner Merger Pepco Exelon Merger

MCCC worked with other business organizations on:

Regional issues: Greater Washington Board of Trade on:

o Metro Momentum and 8 Car Train Coalitiono Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) funding

Prince George’s Chamber of Commerce on:o Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in Marylando Purple Line advocacy

Frederick County Chamber of Commerce on:o I-270

Women Impacting Public Policy (WIPP) on federal government contracting and small business regulations

Economic Development: MBDC – Montgomery County Business Development Corporation Comprehensive Strategic Economic Development Advisory Group

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Maryland Competitiveness Coalition Committee for Montgomery Montgomery Moving Forward Montgomery County Department of Economic Development Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development

Transportation: Purple Line Now Coalition for the Corridor Cities Transitway SMTA – Suburban Maryland Transportation Alliance Transit Task Force Coalition to Protect the Transportation Trust Fund

Other Montgomery County Year of the Veteran MCBRE Local chambers, State chamber, other business associations

Advocacy in the News

Op-Ed in “The Washington Post” with Prince George’s Chamber on the FBI relocation Frequent guest on “Montgomery Week in Review” Transportation 4 America press event Comcast Newsmakers features elected officials at MCCC signature events and an interview with

Georgette “Gigi” Godwin, MCCC President & CEO Numerous media citations in local publications

Signature Events

Business Awards Dinner

On November 20, 2014, the MCCC Annual Business Awards Dinner celebrated business leadership, achievement, and partnership with over 800 business and government leaders.

2014 MCCC Business Award Winners Corporate Achievement

o Winner: HUGHES An EchoStar Company o Sponsor: Watkins Meegan, a division of CohnReznick

Public Sector Partner of the Yearo Winner: Mauricio P. Vera, Director, Office of Small & Disadvantaged Business Utilization

(OSDDBU), United States Agency for International Development (USAID)o Sponsor: Westat

Small Business Leader of the Yearo Winner: Lisa M. Firestone, President & CEO, Managed Care Advisorso Sponsor: CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield

Emeritus Business Leader of the Yearo Winner: Barbara Krumsiek, President & CEO, Calvert Investmentso Sponsor: M&T Bank

Corporate Social Responsibility

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o Winner: Clark Construction Group, LLCo Sponsor: Kaiser Foundation Health Plan of the Mid-Atlantic States, Inc.

Spirit of Free Enterpriseo Winner: Michael Binko, President and CEO, kloudtracko Sponsor: EagleBank

Green Business Innovator of the Yearo Winner: Scott Nash, Founder and Owner, MOM’s Organic Marketo Co-Sponsors: Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection and Honest Tea

Prime Partner of the Yearo Winner: Northrop Grumman Corporationo Co-Sponsors: Information Systems Solutions and IT Concepts, Inc.

Verl Zanders Emerging Business of the Yearo Winner: Wedding Wireo Sponsor: Montgomery County Department of Economic Development

Annapolis Legislative Reception

On January 26, 2015, over 200 people attended the 2015 MCCC Annapolis Legislative Reception, including members of the Montgomery County Delegation and of the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce. It was an intimate, informal networking event held at the Governor Calvert House in Annapolis, MD.

The event featured MCCC’s 2015 legislative agenda which focuses on promoting tax reform so Montgomery County’s businesses can be competitive with nearby states, improving the business climate to retain and attract businesses, and championing strategic capital spending as a key means to invest in success.

Speakers at the event included the following: Senator Nancy King (D39), Chair of the Senate Delegation Delegate Shane Robinson (D39), Chair of the House Delegation Lisa Cines, MCCC’s Chair of the Board, and Regional Partner of Business Development & Marketing for

Dixon Hughes Goodman, LLP Tom McElroy, Chair of MCCC’s Legislative Affairs Committee, and Senior Vice President and Corporate

Controller for HUGHES An EchoStar Company

Public Safety Awards Luncheon

On March 13, 2015, the 41st Annual MCCC Public Safety Awards brought over 1200 business, government, and public safety leaders together to thank the brave men and women who protect our community every day.

Award Recipients Public Safety Government Partner of the Year:

o Winner: FBI Baltimore Field Officeo Sponsor: Motorola Solutions

Public Safety Corporate Vital Link: o Winner: Project Lifesaver International o Sponsor: TD Bank

MCCC Public Safety Unit Citation: Airplane Tragedy in Gaithersburg Police, Fire/Rescue and Sheriff Agency Responders

8 Valor Award Recipientso House Fire in Rockville responders Captain Larry Murray (Gold), Fire Rescuer III William Mcginn

(Silver), and Master Fire Fighter Rescuer David Shaklan (Silver)

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o Apartment Fire in Gaithersburg responders Captain Walter U. Stottlemyer (Silver) and Fire Fighter Rescuer III Anthony J Veith (Silver)

o House Fire in Germantown responder Detective Mario Mastrangelo (Silver)o Suicide Attempt at Matthew Henson State Park in Silver Spring responder Police Officer I Alan

Yuill (Bronze)o Suicide Attempt on I-270 responder Police Officer I Ryan Grzybowski (Bronze)

MCCC Public Safety Community Service Award: Deputy Sheriff William C. Debley

A gift was also presented to Arthur M. Wallenstein who retired as the Director of the Montgomery County Department of Correction and Rehabilitation.

The 2015 Chairman of the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce Public Safety Awards was Steven A. Robins, Esq., Partner at Lerch, Early & Brewer.

Government officials who participated in the program included the following: Senator Barbara Mikulski Congressman Chris Van Hollen Congressman John Delaney Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett Montgomery County Council President George Leventhal

Public safety leaders who participated in the program included the following: J. Thomas Manger, Chief, Montgomery County Department of Police Scott Goldstein, Acting Fire Chief, Montgomery County Division of Fire & Rescue Service Darren M. Popkin, Sheriff, Montgomery County Sheriff's Office Arthur M. Wallenstein, Director, Montgomery County Department of Correction and Rehabilitation Antonio DeVaul, Chief, Maryland-National Capital Park Police, Montgomery County Division

The event was emceed by NBC News Correspondent Tom Costello and NBC News4 Anchor Pat Lawson.

Additional sponsorships allowed guests of awardees and public safety personnel to attend.

The event received extensive media coverage including coverage by all local TV news stations.

GovConNet Procurement Conference

On May 15, 2015, the MCCC GovConNet Procurement Conference gave over 800 attendees the unique opportunity to gain valuable insights and meet directly with key purchasing agents from a variety of federal government agencies, prime contractors, and state and local agencies. The Conference’s new website and added online advertising attracted attendees from around the country. Speakers at the Opening Ceremony

Congressman Chris Van Hollen, Honorary Chair MG Bruce T. Crawford, Commanding General, U.S. Army Communications-Electronics Command

(CECOM), and Senior Mission Commander, APG Secretary R. Michael Gill, Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development A. John Shoraka, Associate Administrator of Government Contracting and Business Development,

U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Pamela J. Mazza, Managing Partner, PilieroMazza PLLC

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The 2015 MCCC GovConNet Procurement Conference featured the following: 240 One-on-One matchmaking sessions 85 Exhibitors 79 Speakers 26 Federal agencies/departments 24 Breakout Sessions 15 State & Local Government Departments 8 Prime Contractors CEO’s Every GWAC program manager Heads of Procurement OSDBU Directors Over 800 attendees from across the country

Annual Dinner

On June 25, 2015, the MCCC 56th Annual Dinner welcomed nearly 800 business and government leaders to celebrate the extraordinary talents and organizations that are leading change for MCCC members, our region, and our nation.

During the ceremony, MCCC’s newly elected Board of Directors was sworn in and a passing of the torch celebration welcomed the new leadership:

Chair: Jerry Shapiro, President, Shapiro & Duncan Chair Elect: Jim Young, Vice President, Corporate Facilities, Services and Real Estate, Marriott

International, Inc. Immediate Past Chair: Lisa Cines, Regional Partner, Business Development & Marketing, Dixon Hughes

Goodman, LLP

MCCC also recognized four leaders who make significant contributions to building a strong business environment in Montgomery County and beyond:

Legislator of the Year:o Winner: Senator Ben Cardin, U.S. Senator for Marylando Sponsor: NextWin Services LLCo Presented by Ann Sullivan, President, NextWin Services LLC

Visionary of the Year:o Winner: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), accepted by Dr. Kathryn D.

Sullivan, Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere and NOAA Administratoro Sponsor: Lockheed Martin Corporationo Presented by Stephanie Hill, Vice President & General Manager, Information Systems & Global

Solutions Civil Business, Lockheed Martin Business Advocate of the Year:

o Winner: Thomas J. McElroy, Senior Vice President & Corporate Controller, HUGHES an EchoStar Company

o Sponsor: CohnReznick LLPo Presented by Bhavesh Vadhani, Principal, Risk and Business Advisory, CohnReznick Advisory

Group, CohnReznick LLP Chairman’s Award:

o Winner: Steven A. Robins, Esq., Partner, Lerch, Early & Brewer, Chtdo Presented by Lisa Cines Regional Partner, Business Development & Marketing, Dixon Hughes

Goodman, LLP

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A Veteran Institute for Procurement video tribute was shown followed by a medal presentation to founders, federal, state and local government partners for their leadership and support to arm veteran-owned small businesses to win government contacts.

Government leaders in attendance included the following: Boyd Rutherford, Lieutenant Governor of Maryland Nancy King, Senate Chair, Montgomery County Delegation, Maryland General Assembly Anne Kaiser, House of Delegates, Majority Leader, Maryland General Assembly Isiah “Ike” Leggett, Montgomery County Executive

Programs and Member Services

Member Exchange Meetings

MCCC Member Exchange Meetings are an exclusive benefit for MCCC members, providing them with access to information and experts that give their businesses the competitive edge in today’s knowledge economy. The 2014-2015 series welcomed 47 speakers for 39 meetings to discuss topics related to Economic Development, GovConNet, Infrastructure and Land Use, Legislative Affairs, and Small Business.

Economic DevelopmentThe Economic Development series aims to highlight programs that support County and State economic development initiatives. The goal is to work with county and state officials to foster a business climate to enable the attraction and retention of high quality employers and jobs.

2014-2015 Economic Development Vice-Chair and Co-Chair Vice-Chair: Leslie Ford Weber, Director, Campus, Government & Community Affairs, Montgomery

County, Federal Affairs Officer, John Hopkins University Montgomery County Campus Co-Chair: Stewart Edelstein, Ph.D., Executive Director, The Universities at Shady Grove

2014-2015 Speakers and Topics September 11, 2014

o Speaker: Steve Silverman, Director, Montgomery County Department of Economic Developmento Topic: White Oak Life Science Center

October 9, 2014o Speaker: Ron Kaese, Director, Federal Programs, Maryland Technology Development

Corporationo Topic: Turning Research into Revenue: The role of TEDCO in Commercialization

November 13, 2014 (joint with Legislative Affairs)o Speaker: Senator Nancy King and Delegate Anne Kaiser, Montgomery County Delegation

Leadershipo Topic: Legislative Priorities

December 11, 2014o Speaker: Dan Hoffman, Chief Innovation Officer, Montgomery Countyo Topic: Montgomery County’s Innovation Program

February 12, 2015o Speaker: Kelly Groff, President and CEO, Visit Montgomeryo Topic: Business Opportunities through County Hospitality and Events

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March 12, 2015o Speaker: Lily Qi, Special Projects, Office of the County Executiveo Topic: New Initiatives and Special Projects in Montgomery County

April 9, 2015o Speaker: Peter Franchot, Comptroller of Maryland o Topic: Maryland's fiscal climate, tax revenue impact, and economic opportunities

June 11, 2015o Speaker: Isiah (Ike) Leggett, County Executive of Montgomery Countyo Topic: Economic Development Organization – The Proposal and Q&A

GovConNetThe GovConNet series encourages and promotes the awareness and opportunities for the advancement of doing business with federal, state and local government agencies. It provides best business practices and regulatory updates for prospective, new and experienced government contractors. 2014-2015 GovConNet Vice-Chair and Co-Chair

Vice-Chair: Kwesi Rogers, President and CEO, Federal National Commercial Credit Co-Chair: Lexy B. Kessler, CPA, CGMA Partner, Aronson LLC

2014-2015 Speakers and Topics

October 29, 2014o Speaker: Brian Friel, Government Contracts Analyst, Bloomberg LP o Topic: Procurement Opportunities - Where The Money Is

November 12, 2014o Speakers: Nichole DeVries Atallah, Associate, Labor and Employment Law and Litigation,

PilieroMazza PLLC; and Kevin McCoy, Partner, Ford & Harrison LLPo Topic: Staying Competitive in a Challenging Labor Compliance Environment - New HR

Regulations for Federal Contractors January 21, 2015 (joint with Small Business)

o Speaker: Jon Williams, Partner, PillieroMazza PLLCo Topic: Cyber Security Best Practices and Requirements

February 4, 2015o Speaker: Pamela J. Mazza, Managing Partner, PilieroMazza PLLCo Topic: Small Business Administration Proposed Rules

April 2, 2015o Speaker: Martin Feeney, Vice President, Government Relations, Madison Services Group, Inc. o Topic: How to Find Program Dollars in the New Federal Budget

April 28, 2015o Speaker: Pasquale (Pat) DeSanto Jr., Supplier Diversity Lead, Lockheed Martin Information

Services and Global Solutions (IS&GS) o Topic: Lockheed Martin – Opening Doors to Small Enterprises

June 2, 2015 o Speaker: John F. Long, Manager, Supplier Diversity Programs, Northrop Grumman Information

Systems o Topic: Navigating your way through a Prime Contractor

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Infrastructure and Land UseThe Infrastructure and Land Use series closely follow matters relating to the county’s Planning Board, Board of Appeals, and Master Plan process. Topics include funding, capacity, and innovative thinking in land use planning and design.

2014-2015 Infrastructure and Land Use Vice-Chair and Co-Chair Vice-Chair: Gus Bauman, Esq., Counsel, Beveridge & Diamond, P.C. Co-Chair: Peter Monge, President, Medstar Montgomery Medical Center

2014-2015 Speakers and Topics September 9, 2014

o Speakers: Jerry Johnson, General Manager, Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC); Chris Cullinan, Acting CFO, Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission

o Topic: WSSC's Infrastructure October 14, 2014

o Speaker: Casey Anderson, Chair, Planning Boardo Topic: Montgomery County Planning Board Updates

November 11, 2014o Speaker: Michelle Vigen, Senior Energy Planner, Department of Environmental Protectiono Topic: Energy Benchmarking

December 9, 2015o Speaker: Charlie Scott, Government Relations Officer, Washington Metropolitan Area Transit

Authority (WMATA) o Topic: WMATA Update

January 13, 2015o Speaker: Hans Riemer, Councilmember, At-Largeo Topic: Montgomery County's Digital Infrastructure

February 9, 2015 (joint meeting with Legislative Affairs)o Speaker: Roger Berliner, Councilmember, District 1o Topic: Montgomery County Transportation

March 10, 2015o Speaker: Bruce Crispell, Division of Long-Range Planning; and Pamela Dunn, Montgomery

Planning Director's Officeo Topic: MCPS Enrollment Trends and School Planning

April 14, 2015o Speaker: Secretary Pete K. Rahn, Maryland Department of Transportationo Topic: Maryland Transportation

May 12, 2015o Speakers: Chuck Bean and Robert Griffiths, Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments o Topic: The Council of Governments and Regional Transportation

June 9, 2015o Speaker: Diane Schwartz Jones, Director, Department of Permitting Serviceso Topic: Updates from the Department of Permitting Services

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Legislative AffairsThe Legislative Affairs series addresses topics that pertain to advocacy at the federal, state and local level, supporting legislation, and policies that will keep Montgomery County and Maryland competitive in today’s global economy.

2014-2015 Legislative Affairs Vice-Chair and Co-Chair Vice-Chair: Tom McElroy, Senior Vice President and Corporate Controller, HUGHES An EchoStar

Company Co-Chair: Joshua Bokee, Director of Government Affairs, Comcast

2014-2015 Speakers and Topics July 16, 2014

o Speaker: John Stierhoff, Partner, Venable LLPo Topic: Primary Election Results Review

September 19, 2014o Speaker: Senator Brian Feldman, Maryland General Assemblyo Topic: Regional Issues and Maryland's Role in the Region

October 17, 2014o Speaker: Melanie Wenger, Director, Office of Intergovernmental Relationso Topic: 2015 General Assembly Legislative Session Priorities

November 13, 2014 (joint with Economic Development)o Speaker: Senator Nancy King and Delegate Anne Kaiser, Montgomery County Delegation

Leadershipo Topic: Legislative Priorities

December 19, 2014o Speaker: George Leventhal, Montgomery County Councilo Topics: County Council Priorities

February 9, 2015 (joint meeting with Infrastructure and Land Use)o Speaker: Roger Berliner, Councilmember, District 1o Topic: Montgomery County Transportation

March 9, 2015o Speaker: John Stierhoff, Partner, and Marta Harting, Partner, Venable LLP o Topic: Updates from Annapolis - 2015 Legislative Session

April 17, 2015o Speakers: Leadership from the Montgomery County Delegation to the Maryland General

Assembly: Senator Nancy King (D39), Chair of the Senate Delegation, and Delegate Shane Robinson (D39), Chair of the House Delegation

o Topic: Maryland General Assembly 2015 Legislative Session: View from the Montgomery County Leadership

June 19, 2015 (joint meeting with Small Business)o Speaker: Sidney Katz, Montgomery County Council (District 3)o Topic: Review of the County Council Budget Process and Priorities Moving Forward

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Small BusinessThe Small Business series discusses real-time, market-based information on issues that impact how to run and grow your business in Montgomery County and Maryland.

2014-2015 Small Business Vice-Chair and Co-Chair Vice-Chair: Clark Kendall, President & Founder, Kendall Capital Management Co-Chair: Neil Simons Area President, South Atlantic Region, Arthur J. Gallagher & Co

2014-2015 Speakers and Topics October 15, 2014

o Speaker: Jay Fahrer, Associate Director Compliance & Communications, Independent Benefit Services

o Topic: Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act November 19, 2014

o Speaker: Lisa Firestone, President and CEO, Managed Care Advisorso Topic: CEO Lessons Learned

December 17, 2014o Speaker: Judy Stephenson, Montgomery County Department of Economic Developmento Topic: County Executive Leggett's 6 Point Economic Plan - Impacts and Opportunities

January 21, 2015 (joint with GovConNet)o Speaker: Jon Williams, Partner, PillieroMazza PLLCo Topic: Cyber Security Best Practices and Requirements

February 18, 2015o Speaker: Michael Neary, Lerch, Early & Brewero Topic: Employment Law in the County and State

March 18, 2015o Speakers: Jim McClelland, Emergency Management Specialist, and Joe Corona, Outreach

Coordinator, Montgomery County Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Securityo Topic: Small Business Emergency Preparedness

April 15, 2015o Speakers: Angela Beemer, Director, Montgomery College, and Wendelin C. Donahue, Ed.D.

Assistant Director, Career & Internship Services Center, The Universities at Shady Grove o Topic: Internship Programs for Your Business

May 20, 2015o Speakers: Chris Mann and Fred Hargrove, MorganFranklin Consulting o Topic: Growing Your Business - What you need to know

June 19, 2015 (joint meeting with Legislative Affairs)o Speaker: Sidney Katz, Montgomery County Council (District 3)o Topic: Review of the County Council Budget Process and Priorities Moving Forward

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Speed Consulting

In 2014-2015, MCCC held two Speed Consulting sessions to address the small business entrepreneur’s need for information on requirements, milestones, and how to face obstacles. These free one-on-one sessions discussed Marketing, Accounting, Banking and Legal issues, giving members access to expert advice. The sessions were held in the MCCC Boardroom on October 15, 2014, and January 14, 2015, with consultants from Aronson LLC, Sandy Spring Bank, PilieroMazza PLLC, and August Lang & Husak.

Chamber After Hours

MCCC hosted eight Chamber After Hours in 2014-2015. At each event, an average of 60 members and non-members representing a wide range of industries joined MCCC for professional networking in a casual and friendly atmosphere. The events were hosted by American Tap Room, Buffalo Wild Wings, Gordon Biersch, and Smokey Glen Farm.

Orientation

Each month, MCCC welcomes new and prospective members to the Chamber for an opportunity to connect and learn how to make the most of their chamber membership. In 2015, the use of new the MCCC Boardroom’s new AV capabilities allowed MCCC to incorporate a multi-media presentation that increased engagement.

GovConNet

MCCC’s GovConNet programs are designed to support Maryland and Greater Washington Region-based government contractors. In addition to the programs listed below, GovConNet programs also include the MCCC GovConNet Procurement Conference (see the Signature Events section for more information) and the GovConNet Member Exchange Meetings (see the Member Exchange Meetings section for more information).

GovConNet Council

The GovConNet Council is comprised of Government Contracting industry experts who develop GovConNet programs and provide industry specific advocacy. The Council advises the MCCC Board of Directors on its government contracting initiatives. The Council’s mission statement, revised in June 2014, is “To promote the economic impact of the federal government presence and to advocate on behalf of the contracting community for business opportunities.”

GovConNet Institute

On May 1, 2015, the GovConNet Institute graduated its fourth class, comprised of 17 government contractors. Since its launch in 2012, a total of 56 companies have completed the series of seven training sessions and graduated from the Institute. Instructed by MCCC GovConNet expert professional service-providers and CEOs that share Lessons Learned, the program provides advanced training to Federal government contractors in the transitional stage with the real world tools and knowledge needed to succeed at the next level and increase owner value.

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On-sites Agency Visits

On March 24, 2015, MCCC GovConNet facilitated the 4th Annual NRC Small Business Seminar and Matchmaking Event hosted by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). More than 300 small businesses attended the event which featured expert speakers, one-on-one matchmaking sessions, business coaching, exhibitors and networking. The program included remarks and presentations from the following:

The Honorable John Delaney, United States House of Representatives Jerome Murphy, Associate Director Small Business & Outreach Compliance Directorate Office of Small

Business and Civil Rights Georgette “Gigi” Godwin, President & CEO, MCCC Antonio Doss, District Director, District of Columbia Metropolitan Office, U.S. Small Business

Administration Anthony D. Briggs, Small Business Program Manager, Small Business Program, Office of Small Business

and Civil Rights Darren B. Ash, Deputy Executive Director for Corporate Management & Chief Information Officer, Office

of the Executive Director for Operations James C. Corbett, Director, Acquisition Management Division, Office of Administration Marie Jatsko, Director of Subcontracts and Procurement, Dell Federal Tira D. Patterson, Senior Small Business Specialist, Small Business Program, Office of Small Business and

Civil Rights The U.S. NRC offices that hosted matchmaking sessions with pre-selected businesses included the following:

Office of Information Services Computer Security Office Office of New Reactors Office of Nuclear Reactor Regulation Office of Administration Office of the Chief Human Capital Officer Office of Nuclear Security and Incident Response Office of Nuclear Regulatory Research Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards

The prime contractors that hosted matchmaking sessions with pre-selected businesses included the following:

CGI Federal Dell Federal Information System Laboratories Lockheed Martin MAR Inc. Sandia National Laboratories

Initiatives

Startup Maryland: MCCC Supports Entrepreneurs

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For the second consecutive year, MCCC sponsored Startup Maryland, part of the nationwide Startup America initiative. Hundreds of applicants in Maryland applied for a chance to have their 3-minute pitch videotaped to be seen online by VC, angel investors and voted on by fans around Maryland. On October 1, 2014, MCCC and the Montgomery County Department of Economic Development sponsored two Pitch Across Maryland Bus Stops in Montgomery County. The morning event was held at the Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research - NIST National Cybersecurity Center of Excellence on the Universities at Shady Grove Campus and was co-sponsored by BioHealth Innovation. The afternoon event was held at the UberOffices in Bethesda and co-sponsored by Bethesda Green. At each location, 20 entrepreneurs pitched their companies in the videos recorded on the Startup Bus. Approximately one hundred members of the business community joined each celebration to meet, support and network with the entrepreneurs.

Global Trade: MCCC Connects Our Businesses to International Opportunities

On October 15, 2014, MCCC was an in-kind Platinum Sponsor of the SME Conference 2014 - Business Opportunities for Medium Sized Companies in Malaysia and the United States Conference held at the Embassy of Malaysia in Washington, D.C. Georgette “Gigi” Godwin, MCCC President & CEO, participated in a panel discussion on the topic of "Sustainable Business Environment for SMEs," providing informed on Montgomery County’s business community and opportunities for international trade in the county.

Green Business Forum

Now in its seventh year, the Green Business Forum was created through a partnership between MCCC, the Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection, and Montgomery College. The Green Business Forum features experts who offer unique perspectives on the advantages of being a green business. 2014-2015 Green Business Forums:

November 6, 2014o Commercial Energy Benchmarking Forum

January 29, 2015o Green Purchasing Vendors' Fair

March 31, 2015o A Conversation with Montgomery County's New Director of Environmental Protection, Elisabeth

(Lisa) G. Feldt

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Montgomery County Chamber Community Foundation

Veteran Institute for Procurement

Launched in 2009 by the Montgomery County Chamber Community Foundation (MCCCF), the National Center for Veteran Institute for Procurement (VIP) is the first-ever program in the Nation. In 2014-2015, VIP graduated three classes – October 21-23, 2014, March 10-12, 2015, June 9-11, 2015 – of veteran service-disabled and veteran owned small businesses who completed the three-day, 27-hour comprehensive training program. The program is instructed by professional service experts, government officials, and agency representatives with first-hand experience in government contracting. In addition to new tools, the participants also gain valuable networking connections with Federal agencies and prime contractors. Since its launch in 2009, VIP has graduated 496 service-disabled and veteran-owned small business Federal contractors from 35 states, Washington, D.C., and the U.S. Island Territory of Guam. Public Private Partnership In 2015, the VIP program became a Public Private Partnership by receiving support from the federal, state and county governments. The founders of VIP were recognized at the MCCC 56 th Annual Dinner and each presented with a medal in recognition of their vision and support:

Federal: Barbara Carson, Acting Associate Administrator for the Office of Veterans Business Development, U.S. Small Business Administration

State: Lt. Governor Boyd Rutherford, State of Maryland County: Isiah (Ike) Leggett, County Executive of Montgomery County Private: John Zuccaro, Manager, Business Controls, Lockheed Martin Information Systems & Global

Solutions (IS&GS) Barbara Ashe, Executive Vice President and National Director for VIP, MCCC

VIP 5.0 Graduate Session On Tuesday, July 22, 2014, VIP held the first VIP 5.0 Graduate Session and graduated 38 businesses from MD, VA, PA, FL and Washington, D.C. The program designed for the continued education of VIP graduates and offers a full day of training, introducing new information and capacity enhancing capabilities.

Public Safety Scholarship Fund at Montgomery College

The MCCCF sponsors the Public Safety Scholarship Fund at Montgomery College, established to support students who are children of a Montgomery County fallen, law enforcement officer, firefighter or other public safety professional or volunteer in one of the county public safety agencies identified by MCCC. The 2015 award winner was Madison Graham.

Green Business Certification Program

The Montgomery County Green Business Certification Program - a unique partnership between the Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection, Montgomery College, and the Montgomery County Chamber

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Community Foundation - certifies businesses that have voluntarily implemented sustainable purchasing and operational practices in their businesses in order to protect, preserve, and improve the environment. Program Expansion On April 21, 2015, at a press conference hosted by the Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and MCCC, Montgomery County announced the expansion of the Green Business Certification program. The program is broadening its standards to include business sectors previously ineligible, including restaurants, cleaning companies, hotels and home-based businesses. Twenty-six local businesses were honored under the newly expanded program that now also recognizes businesses certified through other well-respected third party certification programs such as B Lab, Green America, the Green Restaurant Association and Green Seal.

“Follow the Leader” – Ride-On Bus Campaign

MCCC helped to design and promote the 2nd Ride-On bus campaign to increase participation in the Montgomery County Green Business Certification Program. Every business certified by August 1 had its logo featured as part of the Green Certified Business advertisement on the side of a bus. As a result, participation in the program increased and numerous MCCC members who are Green Certified Businesses were publicized in print and online for many months through the campaign.

Communications Outreach

MCCC uses various means of communications to remain abreast of the views of the business community, keep members informed, and influence decision makers on business issues relevant to them.

Social Media

MCCC continues to use social media to engage and inform members, potential members, members of the press, and government officials. Through increased posting, engaging in conversations, and tagging organizations, MCCC has increased its reach.

Twitter: In 2014-2015, MCCC increased its twitter followers by 56% to a total of 1,362 followers. Facebook: In 2014-2015, MCCC increased its Facebook likes by 20% to a total of 1,102 likes. LinkedIn: In 2014-2015, MCCC increased its LinkedIn followers by 16% to a total of 347.

In the News

In 2014-2015, MCCC was highlighted in over 50 news articles. Popular topics of discussion included: Business Awards Dinner, Public Safety Awards, Advocacy, GovConNet Procurement Conference, and Veteran Institute for Procurement.

An Op-Ed by MCCC President & CEO Georgette “Gigi” Godwin and Prince George’s Chamber of Commerce President & CEO David Harrington was included in The Washington Post on the topic of the FBI relocation.

Website

MCCCMD.com: In 2014-2015, the MCCC website increased traffic by 15%

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MCCCMDGovConNet.com: For the first time, a new website was created for the MCCC GovConNet Procurement Conference to better meet the event’s needs. The site yielded 5,788 unique visitors and 20,363 total views.

Online Advertising

For each Signature Event, MCCC was feature in online advertisements on the Gazette’s websites MCCC GovConNet Procurement Conference implemented the use of online advertisements for the first

time:o LinkedIn Sponsored Ads: 114 clicks and 45,415 impressionso Google AdWords: 257 clicks and 114,600 impressions

Email Marketing

MCCC communicates with members, prospects, and interested parties using Constant Contact email marketing to distribute the monthly “What’s Next” newsletter, advocacy highlights and updates, new and renewing member information, updates on programs and events.

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