Alstntec, LLC

10/12/2026

Major economic development investments across Maryland, Washington, DC, and Virginia are creating excitement about new business opportunities. But how do small businesses position themselves to participate in that growth?

A major investment announcement doesn't automatically translate into contracts or new customers. Entrepreneurs need to understand where opportunities exist, how purchasing decisions are made, and what it takes to become a competitive supplier or service provider.

In my latest article, I explore the connection between regional economic development and small-business growth, including the importance of market research, procurement relationships, technical assistance, and business readiness.

As our regional economy continues to grow, are small businesses prepared to take advantage of the opportunities that may follow?

I'd be interested in hearing your thoughts.

Written by ALSTNTEC, LLC Whenever a major economic development announcement is made, it naturally generates excitement throughout the business community. A company announces a multimillion-dollar expansion, a new manufacturing facility is coming to the region, or a government agency announces a majo

10/09/2026

Business Growth Doesn't Always Look Like the Original Plan...

When I started my business in 1997 as A & M Creations, I never imagined all the directions it would take over the years. What began with creating marketing materials and giving general business advice gradually evolved into something much more over time. As the needs of businesses changed, so did the services I provided.

What did not change for me was my interest in helping people gain the knowledge, skills, and resources they needed to move forward. Over the years, I was blessed with the opportunities to work with educational institutions, government agencies, economic development organizations, nonprofit organizations, and business professionals. From those experiences, I developed training programs, facilitated workshops, organized conferences, and worked with some incredible professionals who have contributed their expertise along the way. But this didn't come without challenges to the point where I had to rethink how I approached the business. Some opportunities came through careful planning, while others developed through relationships, conversations, and I simply recognizing a need that wasn't being addressed.. and this included my own business too.

Today, when I look at ALSTNTEC and how far the business has evolved, I am reminded that growth isn't always about getting bigger. Sometimes its about developing stronger capabilities, gaining experience, building meaningful relationships, and recognizing when its time to approach things differently. As I look toward 2027, I'm thinking more about the next stage of ALSTNTECs development, including expanding our work in professional training, organizational development, and consulting. Those opportunities build upon years of experience, partnerships, and the foundation we've already established.

I'm sharing this timeline not simply to highlight accomplishments, but to reflect on a journey that has taken many turns since 1997 and to encourage other small business owners that every stage has contributed something valuable to the overall goal.

I could not do this alone. I appreciate the people and organizations who have been part of that journey. One thing I have learned over the years is that a business do not have to remain what it was when it started. It can evolve as you do.

10/09/2026

We are excited to share one of our breakout sessions for Charles County’s upcoming Fall Meeting, “Entrepreneurship: Driving Economic Impact,” on Tuesday, November 10, from 8 AM to 12 PM at the College of Southern Maryland Center for Business and Industry (BI Building).

This funding-focused panel will feature:
• Moderator: Myra Norton, Johns Hopkins Technology Ventures
• Kim Mozingo, Vice President, Federal Programs, TEDCO
• Karen Zuccardi, Ecosystem Director, Venture Development, Maryland Technology Development Corporation - TEDCO

Learn more and register to attend the Charles County Fall Meeting: https://tinyurl.com/sydxh5v4

10/07/2026

Thanks to my long-time friend Janelle Harris of SheExists Magazine who created and published an article about me on Sheen Magazine supported by the Legendary Luenell Campbell. I am so honored to be friends with someone who is giving back to so many people over the years; and I'm also proud to be featured on an awesome platform where I can share my passion about entrepreneurship.

If you are interested in reading the article, click the link below.

For more than two decades, Anne Alston has been a driving force behind the growth, confidence, and success of entrepreneurs throughout the DMV region. As the CEO and Founder of ALSTNTEC, she has built more than a consulting firm, she has created a trusted space where first-time and existing business...

09/29/2026

We have a seats available to attend the Prepare for Government Contracting Workshop. When you attend this course, you will receive a Booster Kit and hands-on instructions on how build your government vendor roadmap, and complete the necessary applications. Visit our website to register https://www.alstntec-smallbusiness.com/webinar-and-events

09/28/2026

It’s Maryland Economic Development Week!

Economic development is often talked about in terms of new businesses, new investments, and job creation. But there is another important part of the conversation: what we are doing to help existing entrepreneurs and small businesses become stronger and more sustainable?

At ALSTNTEC, we believe education and practical business development are part of that answer. A business owner needs more than motivation. They need practical knowledge they can apply whether that means strengthening their business strategy, improving financial understanding, developing better marketing and sales practices, preparing for contracting opportunities, or building the relationships that can lead to new opportunities.
That is why we continue to invest in hands-on workshops, business training, networking, and professional development programs designed to help participants take what they learn and put it into practice.

As we recognize Maryland Economic Development Week, I’m proud of the work we continue to do to support entrepreneurs and businesses across the DMV and beyond.

We are proud to work with our collaborative economic partners such as FSC First, Prince George's County Economic Development Corporation, and Montgomery County Government. Thank you for all of your support.

To see our upcoming courses, workshops, and training opportunities, visit:
https://alstntec-smallbusiness.com

09/28/2026

Thank you to Toya Lamb, MPA, PMP of TLC Consulting, and Monica Turner Lee, PMP of MTL Consulting, who joined us for Workshop #2 on Saturday, September 27, 2026, in Silver Spring, Maryland.

Monica led our Montgomery County-sponsored small business students through “Moving from Business Operator to Business Owner,” followed by Toya presenting “Maximizing DiSC to Maximize Networking Opportunities.”

Both topics provided an incredible learning experience and valuable insights for our students. We truly appreciate the time, knowledge, and expertise you shared with us today.

Thank you, Toya and Monica, for helping our entrepreneurs continue to grow as business owners and leaders!

09/12/2026

A huge thank you to Eli Natoli for joining us and delivering an incredible workshop for our Montgomery County Cohort #1 entrepreneurs!

Eli shared valuable insights on how to leverage marketing, sales, and lead generation to attract the right clients, build meaningful business relationships, and create opportunities for revenue growth.

The students gained practical knowledge they can apply directly to their businesses—and that’s what makes these workshops so valuable. It’s not just about learning; it’s about being better prepared to take action.

Eli, thank you for sharing your expertise and investing in the success of our entrepreneurs. The students walked away with some real gold! 💎

09/12/2026

I’m excited to welcome our Montgomery County Cohort to the ALSTNTEC Small Business Strategy Course! 🎉

Over the next 10 weeks, we’ll be focusing on what it takes to build a stronger, more sustainable business—from developing a solid business strategy and understanding your numbers to strengthening marketing, operations, and overall business readiness.

This is hands-on work, and I’m looking forward to seeing each student put the knowledge into practice and take meaningful steps toward their business goals.

A special thank you to Montgomery County for the opportunity to serve your small business community. I truly appreciate the partnership and the confidence you’ve placed in ALSTNTEC to support entrepreneurs in Montgomery County. Let’s get to work!

Better | Smarter | Faster

09/12/2026

Are you actually ready for a government contract? Before you start searching for opportunities, ask yourself these questions:

✅ Is your SAM.gov registration current?
✅ Do you know your NAICS codes?
✅ Do you have a capability statement?
✅ Do you understand RFPs, RFQs, and RFIs?
✅ Do you know which agencies are buying your services?

How many can you confidently answer YES to? If you can't answer all five, that's not necessarily a problem, but it is a sign that there is preparation work to do. How many did you answer yes to? Drop your number below.

I created the Prepare for Government Contracting Workshop and the Government Contract Booster Kit to help small businesses owners get organized, informed, and positioned to pursue government opportunities.

📌 See the flyer for the details on how to sign up for the course. Three dates are available.