Economic Development & Strategic Engagement
If you are interested in partnership opportunities, research collaborations, community initiatives or have questions, contact:
Gail Bassette
Director, Office of Economic Development and Strategic Engagement
14000 Jericho Park Road, Bowie, MD 20715-9465
gbassette@bowiestate.edu
The Office of Economic Development and Strategic Engagement facilitates partnerships with industry and federal, local, and state government organizations to advance Bowie State University’s goals as a national leader in education and research. We emphasize workforce development, innovation, and entrepreneurship as we focus on maintaining a pipeline of opportunities for students and faculty. We continue to support the university’s research objectives while also seeking opportunities to advance our community.
The university has achieved academic and research accomplishments in Cybersecurity, natural science, education, nursing, cancer, mental health, digital health, information technology and renewable energy. OEDSE continues to drive growth and innovation by providing faculty, students and staff with grants and contract support to increase the university’s research capabilities.
About Us
The Office of Economic Development and Strategic Engagement creates exclusive opportunities for government agencies, industry leaders, and economic development organizations to share resources and collaborate with students and faculty. We leverage Bowie State University’s rich research history, infrastructure and stakeholders to build sustainable partnerships that enhance the university’s national visibility and support of the local community.
Entrepreneurship
The College of Business is a hub for entrepreneurial education and is home to the first business incubator at an HBCU in Maryland. Students learn to pitch their ideas for events like the BSU Idea Competition and other collegiate and regional events.
We have also joined the University of the District of Columbia, Morgan State and additional corporate sponsors to establish entrepreneurship scholarship programs and institute training. Bowie State University has elevated the Entrepreneurship Academy in a university-wide initiative that will continue to create innovative programs and opportunities for entrepreneurs to grow and thrive.

Bowie BIC
The Bowie Business Innovation Center, or Bowie BIC, is a business accelerator and network that serves minority-owned businesses in Prince George’s County and the Greater Washington Metropolitan Area.
Bowie BIC is a valuable entrepreneurial resource that offers access to business planning tools, funding sources, legal and regulatory information, and networking opportunities. It creates a space for entrepreneurs to address questions concerning business banking, pursuing government contracts, elevating performance during growth, expansion and more. Check out more from Bowie BIC at www.bowiebic.com.
Workforce Development
OEDSE focuses on initiatives that prepare students and community members for the workforce, including skills training programs, internships, and career readiness workshops.
Research and Innovation
OEDSE supports research initiatives that drive economic development, including collaborations with industry partners, commercialization of research and support for innovation-driven enterprises.
Community Engagement
OEDSE leads many community development projects that support historically underrepresented groups, enhance community engagement and build sustainable partnerships with local, county, and state organizations.
For Faculty and Students
Department of Health and Human Services
Department of Energy
Department of Transportation
Department of Education
Small Business Administration
Department of Defense
University of Maryland
Laurel College Center
Maryland Department of Transportation
Bowie Chamber of Commerce
Governor’s Office
Maryland Chamber of Commerce
Maryland Cannabis Administration
Maryland Department of Transportation
Prince George’s County
Private Sector Partners and agencies
Financial Institutions and Banks
The University Economic Development Faculty Fellows program fosters collaboration by matching faculty and staff with external partners across federal, state and business industries to promote economic growth, innovation and entrepreneurship at Bowie State University.
Information on internships, job opportunities, workshops, and seminars designed to enhance skills and employability. Students can also find and apply for jobs at gsa.gov/hbcu