VOR Technology LLC, a veteran-owned cybersecurity firm based in Columbia, plans to expand its workforce after receiving multiple contracts from the U.S. Department of Defense. To meet the growing demand for its services and cybersecurity expertise, the company anticipates creating more than 60 new jobs in the Fort Meade area.
Founded in 2012 by Anthony Lawrence, a veteran of the United States Army, VOR Technology provides skilled cyber professionals and computer network training to government and private agencies to help secure America’s globally-spanning networks. The company’s three worksites in Maryland currently support more than 20 government contracts, including managing cyber intelligence solutions, geographic information systems, cloud computing and more.
“We take pride in the support we provide to the DoD in its mission to protect our nation’s critical infrastructure,” said Anthony Lawrence, founder of VOR Technology. “There is an invisible war being fought in cyberspace and many individuals don't know it’s happening until they are impacted. This loan program will provide additional funding in our efforts to use innovative, unconventional software and hardware solutions to protect commercial and military communications.”
To provide the company with the working capital necessary to fulfill their government contracts, the Maryland Department of Commerce is providing a $50,000 loan through the Military Personnel and Veteran-Owned Small Business No-Interest Loan Program. The funding will help the company finance equipment upgrades, including computer hardware and software, which will be used to train new employees.
“As we celebrate Veterans Day tomorrow, I want our veterans to know that Maryland stands ready to assist them in taking the next step to success, whether it’s starting or expanding a business or buying a home,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “We are proud that Anthony Lawrence and VOR Technology are working with our federal partners to ensure the safety and security of our nation’s networks. We invite all veterans, members of the military, and businesses that employ veterans or reservists to learn how this program can help them start or expand a business.”
The Military Personnel and Veteran-Owned Small Business No-Interest Loan Program was created in 2006 and is administered by Commerce in consultation with the Maryland Department of Veteran Affairs. Veterans who own a business, as well as active members of the military, are eligible to apply. The program also accepts applications from small businesses that employ military reservists and National Guard members called to active duty, as well as companies employing service-disabled veterans.
“The Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs is pleased to learn that through utilization of this loan program, VOR Technology LLC is positioned to expand their business, purchase needed equipment, and create jobs in Howard County,” said George Owings, secretary of the Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs. “Mr. Lawrence exemplifies the motto ‘Army Strong,’ and our department wishes him great success.”
“We are proud of our veterans, and proud of the success of VOR Technology LLC,” said Howard County Executive Allan H. Kittleman. “The rapid growth of the company and the demand for its services is a testament to how capable and innovative our service men and women can be after they leave the military. Howard County supports and applauds VOR’s contributions to job creation and cyber security.”