Maryland has been approved by Governor Wes Moore for the creation of new HUBZone areas from the U.S. Small Business Administration. The three new designations for Worcester County, census tract 22 in Allegany County, and census tract 9302 in Somerset County will enhance Maryland's competitiveness by providing economic development opportunities to rural communities. The HUBZone Program, which allows certified small businesses in economically challenged areas to partner directly with the federal government, will provide preferential procurement consideration for businesses within HUBZone-designated areas. The designated areas will be effective for one calendar year, as long as they meet the required criteria. The federal government is one of the largest buyers of goods and services globally, committing approximately $694 billion to contracts, with $20.8 billion set aside for HUBZone certified firms in FFY 2022.