Maryland Makerspace Initiative Program brings new support to creative hubs across the state

It has been a year since SB 453 became law, bringing new opportunities for makerspaces across Maryland.

The Maryland Makerspace Initiative Program was created to promote makerspace growth throughout the state. Makerspaces can now apply for monetary awards of up to $100,000 to establish new spaces, expand existing ones, or develop innovative programming. In addition to funding, the program provides technical support and charter membership in the Maryland Makerspace Network. This network aims to establish common standards in education, operations, design and safety.

Greenmount West-based Open Works played a crucial role in the development of the Maryland Makerspace Initiative Program by providing sample emails and social media prompts to maker community denizens as SB 453 was being considered.

“This initiative lays the foundation for the first genuinely public network of makerspaces in the nation, representing a significant leap towards providing equitable access to tools for all Marylanders,” Open Works Executive Director Will Holman told Technical.ly via email.

Administered by TEDCO, the funds are available to local governments, entities designated by local governments, and nonprofits. Eligible entities may seek assistance for establishing, expanding or operating makerspaces in Maryland. The Requests for Applications were launched on April 5 and will close on May 31. The winners will be announced in July.

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