Maryland-based company developing tools to minimize employee turnover
COLUMBIA, Md., (May 15, 2026) — TEDCO, Maryland’s economic engine for technology companies, announced a recent $250,000 investment in Escalate. This investment came through TEDCO’s Pre-Seed Builder Fund, which falls under the umbrella of the organization’s Social Impact Funds.
“At Escalate, we understand that the best companies are not just looking to fill roles, but are investing in the talent hired,” said Sean Segal, CEO and co-founder of Escalate. “With this additional investment from TEDCO, Escalate can continue to grow, empowering more businesses to offer more support to hourly workers.”
Escalate, based in Silver Spring, Md., has developed a proprietary platform focused on minimizing turnover of frontline employees. Through this platform, Escalate facilitates a community of support, provides opportunities for workers to learn and grow in their fields and works to end the current talent crisis.
“Understanding that a large number of frontline employees will leave their position within the first year, Escalate is working to challenge this reality,” said Jean-Luc Park, deputy chief investment officer & senior director, Social Impact Funds. “Through this recent investment, TEDCO’s Social Impact Funds hope to help the company continue forward, supporting a potential solution to employee turnover.”
Escalate has participated in several of TEDCO’s resources and opportunities, including a previous Social Impact Funds investment in 2023, participating in Prelude Pitch and leveraging the Network Advisors and Loaned Executive programs.
Through the Social Impact Funds, TEDCO invests in and provides hands-on educational support, mentorship and collaborative efforts, and networking opportunities to support socially and economically disadvantaged individuals who are founders of technology-based companies in the State.
“Maryland was ranked number one for professional and technical workers, the second most educated state in the country and so much more,” said TEDCO CEO, Troy LeMaile-Stovall. “Innovators looking to grow and make a difference should look no further than Maryland. Not only is our workforce primed to support business growth, but there are numerous resources across the state that were created to open new avenues and opportunities.”
For more information, visit our page at tedcomd.com/funding.