Resources for Businesses

Are you a La Plata business owner, or are you considering setting up a business in La Plata? You'll want to check the local landscape and see what resources you have available.

Doing Business in the Town of La Plata

  • Town of La Plata Planning Department: The Planning Department Coordinates all of the development-related functions across the Town and oversees planning, development and permitting activities, as well as Code enforcement. The department also works to update and implement the Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Ordinance to ensure the Town's vision is achieved.
  • Sustainable Community: The Town of La Plata's designation as a Sustainable Community by the Smart Growth Coordinating Subcabinet makes La Plata eligible to apply for funds from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development to revitalize and attract growth and development within its Sustainable Community through the Community Legacy Program and Strategic Demolition Fund.
  • Town of La Plata Sustainable Purchasing Policy (PDF): The Town of La Plata recognizes its responsibility to minimize negative impacts on the environment. The Town will make its best efforts to procure materials, products or services in a manner that integrates fiscal responsibility, community, and environmental stewardship.

Local Resources

  • La Plata Business Association (LPBA): The La Plata Business Association provides support and networking opportunities for businesses, organizations, and individuals interested in the development, redevelopment and preservation of the downtown business district of La Plata.
  • Charles County Chamber of Commerce: The Charles County Chamber of Commerce provides leadership in supporting and promoting the free enterprise system through business development, education, and sound ethical values for the benefit of our members and our communities.
  • Southern Maryland Business Network (SMBN): SMBN provides a structured environment in which you can market and grow your business by developing relationships with a cross-section of business professionals. Through these relationships, your business gains exposure to a new set of prospects.
  • Charles County Economic Development Department: The Charles County Economic Development Department promotes the economic vitality of Charles County, providing strategies, incentives, programs, and partnerships to position businesses for success.
    • Charles County Back to Business Directory: The Economic Development Department and the Charles County Chamber of Commerce established a Geographic Information System (GIS)-enabled website to inform customers about local businesses' operating status. Users can search by business type, location, and other pertinent criteria. A map is also available showing the business locations with their services, hours, websites, and other additional information.
  • Maryland Small Business Development Center, Southern Region, at College of Southern Maryland: The SBTDC is dedicated to assisting small businesses start, grow and be profitable. You will receive sound advice from professional staff and, if necessary, referral to industry experts or other business consultants. The SBTDC has offices located in Calvert, Charles and St. Mary's Counties where you can receive professional and confidential assistance for your business.

State Resources

  • Maryland is Open for Business: Why start a business in - or move a business to - Maryland?
  • Maryland Department of Commerce: Are you a new or existing business looking for help to retain workers or expand, or branch out internationally? Are you considering Maryland for your next location? The Maryland Department of Commerce wants to help.
  • Maryland Department of Labor: The Maryland Department of Labor supports the economic stability of the state by providing businesses, the workforce and the consuming public with high-quality customer-focused regulatory, employment and training services.
  • Maryland Alcoholics Anonymous: offers a 24/7 confidential helpline, as well as an extensive list of local AA meetings in every state.

Federal Resources

  • U.S. Small Business Administration: The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) helps small business owners and entrepreneurs pursue the American dream. The SBA is the only cabinet-level federal agency fully dedicated to small businesses and provides counseling, capital, and contracting expertise as the nation's only go-to resource and voice for small businesses.

General Resources

  • Maryland Get Your Business Online: Google has provided free resources to improve online business presence, including a listing on Google Maps, a webpage and customized domain name.