Annapolis, MD – On May 21, 2025, the Paladin Global Institute and Maryland Department of Commerce co-hosted a Maryland Investment Symposium, bringing together state leadership, Trusted Capital investment community partners, and innovation leaders from across the state to discuss and showcase Maryland’s strategic economic development priorities and “Winning the Decade” vision.
The half-day symposium at the Treasury Building and Maryland State House in Annapolis, featured participation from Governor Wes Moore, Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller, Secretary of Commerce Harry Coker, Jr., Paladin Global Institute President Kemba Walden, and Paladin Capital Group Chief Investment Officer Chris Steed.
“Maryland’s unique ecosystem of federal research facilities, top-tier universities, and innovation hubs creates unparalleled opportunities for strategic investment,” said Kemba Walden, President of Paladin Global Institute. “This symposium demonstrates how public-private partnerships can convene and truly accelerate growth.”
The conversation began with an overview of state economic development priorities and the Winning the Decade strategy, followed by detailed presentations on the three “lighthouse sectors,” focused on Quantum Technologies, Position, Navigation, and Timing (PNT), and Computational Biology technologies. Featured speakers discussed successful innovation models, including from TEDCO’s state leveraging strategies, Johns Hopkins’ Technology Ventures, UMD’s Discovery District and quantum initiatives, and Blackbird Labs’ Baltimore-focused development approach.
“This symposium was a wonderful opportunity to discuss the goals and priorities outlined in the Winning the Decade report,” said Harry Coker, Jr., Secretary of the Maryland Department of Commerce. “The thoughtful group of investors assembled by the Paladin Global Institute recognizes the importance of supporting technologies and companies that align with U.S. national security interests. Maryland has many strengths, assets, and opportunities – particularly in our Lighthouse Sectors – which will reward investment in these important areas.”
A moderated discussion led by Secretary Coker and Walden explored investment opportunities, Maryland’s competitive advantages, and actionable partnerships for commercializing intellectual property from federal assets and universities.
Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller delivered greetings from the Moore-Miller Administration, highlighting Maryland’s competitive positioning, including the state’s social environment for workers, quality of life advantages, and comprehensive suite of commerce incentive programs. Discussions focused on how Maryland can support growth in investor portfolios while advancing strategic national interests.
The symposium concluded with a networking lunch at the historic Governor’s Reception Room in the State House. Governor Moore provided remarks and engaged with guests during the networking lunch at the State House and continued the dialogue between state leadership and investment community representatives.
About Paladin Capital Group
Paladin Capital Group was founded in 2001 and has offices in Washington DC, New York, London, Luxembourg, and Silicon Valley. As a multi-stage, dual-use investor, Paladin’s core strength is identifying, supporting, and investing in innovative companies that develop promising, early-stage technologies to address the critical cyber, defense and advanced technology needs of both commercial and government customers.
Combining proven investment experience with deep expertise in global security, cyber technology, and cutting-edge research, Paladin has invested in more than 80 companies since 2008 and has been a trusted partner to investors, entrepreneurs, and governments for over two decades.
For more on Paladin Capital Group, follow us on Twitter at @Paladincap and on LinkedIn or visit us at www.paladincapgroup.com.