Martin Proulx to Receive Award Honoring Contributions to Maryland’s Economic Development
ANNAPOLIS, MD (February 12, 2025) – The Maryland Department of Agriculture is excited to announce Martin Proulx, the Department’s Value Added Agricultural Specialist, has been named the 2025 Maryland Economic Development Association (MEDA) Rising Star. Awarded to an individual, age 40 and under, who has made a significant contribution to the economic development profession in Maryland, Martin has been instrumental in strengthening Maryland’s agricultural economy by driving growth through initiatives in farm manufacturing, tourism, and processing.
“I am grateful for MEDA and thankful for this recognition,” said Martin. “MEDA has been an invaluable resource over the years, and has consistently welcomed and recognized agriculture as an important piece to the State’s Economic Development landscape. ”
Previous to joining the Maryland Department of Agriculture, Martin served as the Agriculture Business Development Manager at Charles County Economic Development Department, working closely with farmers and the agriculture industry. He was a key contributor to drafting and advancing legislation related to strengthening the local agricultural economy and promoting local agriculture, tourism, and craft alcohol. A dedicated MEDA member, Martin has actively participated in the organization’s Young Leaders Committee and serves on the MEDA Foundation Board, furthering his commitment to supporting the organization’s mission.
“I was delighted to hear of Martin’s recognition as MEDA’s Rising Star,” said Maryland Department of Agriculture Secretary Kevin Atticks. “His knowledge and contributions to the State’s value added agricultural sector and the role it plays in Maryland agriculture have made a significant impact to the State’s #1 commercial industry.”
Martin will receive the award during the 2025 MEDA Awards Banquet on April 28 in Cambridge. MEDA is a nonprofit organization of economic development professionals. Established in 1961, MEDA members promote the economic well-being of Maryland by working to improve the state’s business climate and the professionalism of those in the field of economic development.
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