Sarah Horta brings a forward-thinking mindset and a results-driven approach to her work in economic development, with a particular focus on national defense and cybersecurity. As director of innovation and strategic partnerships at the Maryland Economic Development Corporation, she manages initiatives that support high-priority defense missions and technological advancement. Among her most significant accomplishments is the leadership of a $5 million capital grant program aimed at strengthening the national defense infrastructure. Her direction of the Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility Capital grant program led to the organization receiving the AMITA Award, a recognition celebrated by economic development professionals throughout Maryland.
Ms. Horta’s educational background reflects her commitment to both public service and technical mastery. She holds a master’s degree in cybersecurity from the University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC) and earned a Bachelor of Arts in political science and government from the same university. These studies equipped her with the dual perspectives of government operations and digital security that are essential in her current field. She also earned an Associate of Applied Science in information assurance and cybersecurity from Anne Arundel Community College, reinforcing her hands-on knowledge of cybersecurity practices and expanding her technical capabilities.
Prior to joining the Maryland Economic Development Corporation, Ms. Horta was the business development director for cyber and technology at the Anne Arundel Economic Development Corporation. There, she played a central role in strengthening the region’s innovation economy, cultivating partnerships with tech-sector leaders and guiding strategic growth within cybersecurity. She began her tenure at the organization as a business development associate, gaining practical insight into community-based development and stakeholder engagement.
Earlier in her career, Ms. Horta contributed significantly to bwtech@UMBC Cyber Incubator at the UMBC Cybersecurity Institute, where she held the roles of cyber business coordinator and cyber incubator manager. Her work supported startup growth, facilitated collaboration between founders and mentors and aligned business goals with the demands of the cybersecurity landscape. She also gained formative experience through internships with the Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, applying her academic training to research and policy projects that further informed her development as a leader in public-private initiatives.
Ms. Horta remains actively involved in the broader economic and technological communities. She is a member of several professional associations, including the Cybersecurity Association of Maryland Inc., Maryland Business Incubation Association and Maryland Technology Council. These affiliations allow her to stay at the forefront of emerging trends and maintain connections that foster regional collaboration.
Ms. Horta’s commitment to service extends beyond her professional obligations. Ms. Horta has volunteered with the TopSoccer Program, contributing her time as a coach to youth with disabilities. She also participates in the Young Professionals of the Alliance and the Fort Meade Alliance, and is active with NEDA Young Leaders, supporting the professional growth of emerging economic development practitioners.
Looking ahead, Ms. Horta envisions scaling her impact by managing larger grant programs and exploring the possibility of leading a university-affiliated incubator. She remains deeply engaged with the cybersecurity and startup communities and continues to pursue opportunities that blend innovation, national interest and community growth.