Scholarship Overview
Launchpad Charles County is a pilot entrepreneurship training program organized by the Economic Development Department of Charles County, Maryland. Formed as a successor to the Business Growth Advantage Program (BGAP)—which previously distributed over $1.5 million in grants to more than 140 local enterprises—Launchpad focuses strictly on business instruction rather than direct cash awards. The initial pilot operated as a four-month, fully virtual course consisting of eight bi-monthly sessions conducted between May 14 and August 27.
Designed for small cohorts of 10 to 12 individuals, the program received 64 applications upon opening, leaving 52 applicants on a waiting list. County leadership and economic development officials are currently exploring funding methods to scale the program and support additional cohorts. Specific financial award amounts or scholarship grants are not specified in the source; please check the official notice.
Who Can Apply
The program targets local aspiring and existing business leaders. Eligible candidates include:
- Charles County residents with an early-stage business idea or a newly established business.
- Residents seeking to transition side jobs into full-time commercial ventures.
- Individuals impacted by federal government layoffs.
Additional qualification requirements are not specified in the source; please check the official notice.
Benefits
Selected participants receive valuable training and professional networking resources, including:
- Four months of fully virtual business instruction led by local consultants and business mentors volunteering their time.
- A certificate of completion provided upon graduating from the course.
- Access to "Circles of Seven," a peer-mentoring network where small groups of entrepreneurs meet regularly alongside a facilitator.
How to Apply
Application procedures, future opening dates, and deadlines for upcoming cohorts are not specified in the source; please check the official notice.
Source: fully funded scholarships 2026 - BingNews · Published October 26, 2026 · Photo by Vitaly Gariev on Unsplash
Always confirm deadlines and eligibility on the official scholarship website.