Gov. Hogan honors Maryland companies on Inc. 5000 list

Gov. Larry Hogan stepped into Groove’s offices near Little Italy on Wednesday night to recognize the Maryland companies that made this year’s Inc. 5000 list.
Addressing a crowd that included Inc. Magazine publisher Rich Russey, Hogan said the companies “do many different new and innovative things, but they also have some important things in common — like vision, drive, great leadership to see that vision through and a strong entrepreneurial vision.”
In all, 106 Maryland companies made the annual compendium of the country’s fastest-growing companies, including eight Baltimore tech firms. Companies have to submit certified revenue verification materials, tax forms or audits to show their growth, according to Inc.
Groove, a digital marketing and design agency, was marking its third year on the list. CEO Ethan Giffin recalled when he first found out that he made the cut.
“I finally felt like I was part of a lifetime club of men and women that really understood the blood, sweat and tears that we leave on the field everyday,” said Giffin.
But it was the first time the governor visited the company’s offices in a former Fallsway Spring & Equipment Co. building on Central Avenue, complete with in-house bar. Hogan got a tour from Giffin himself.
“I love what you’ve done with the place,” Hogan said.
https://twitter.com/GrooveFotoBooth/status/689936958802509824
Also marking its third year on the list was East Baltimore-based Ram Supply Company. CEO Martin Manescu said the business supply company grew to 15 employees.
“It’s a sense of accomplishment when you’re able to eke out double-digit growth in a difficult economy,” he said.
Another company marking its third year on the list was Mindgrub Technologies. CEO Todd Marks said he was aiming for five years, or even the Inc. 500. “I’m not satisfied yet,” he said.