As part of Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett’s ongoing efforts to demonstrate the County’s appreciation and support of its vibrant business community, some 250-300 businesses throughout the County will be visited during Business Appreciation Week, April 14 through 18, 2008.

“In light of challenging economic times affecting us locally and nationally, at home and at work, my administration felt it was important to reach out to our valued, existing business community,” said Leggett. “So through a very concerted effort, spearheaded at my request by our Department of Economic Development, numerous teams will visit hundreds of large and small businesses, across varying industry sectors throughout the County, to thank them for being here and share with them the many County programs, services and resources that may be available to help them continue their growth and success here.”

More than 25 business visit teams, made up of two to four people per team, will visit businesses throughout the County. Teams are made up of County department heads and other County staff, as well as representatives from various local business and community organizations.

“The main purpose of this initiative is to engage with our existing business community, to listen and learn from their perspective,” said Pradeep Ganguly, Director, Department of Economic Development. “We are keenly aware that our thriving businesses are the backbone of our local economy, and we will do all we can to help them continue to grow here in Montgomery County.”

Each business visited will receive a certificate signed by the County Executive, along with a packet of information on County programs and services available to assist them. Programs and resources to be highlighted during visits include the County’s Mentorship Program, workforce development and training assistance programs, Montgomery County Business Innovation Network, the County’s incubator program, and the new Microenterprise Program, which offers loans to eligible microenterprises of up to $15,000.

Businesses are also invited to attend a Montgomery County Business Appreciation Week reception scheduled for Thursday, April 17 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Bethesda North Marriott Conference Center. At the reception, Leggett and other County and partner representatives, will participate in a brief program acknowledging the businesses.