Guest feature: Jonathan Dean is the communications manager for BWI Marshall Airport. Follow BWI on Facebook and Twitter.

Two Maryland small businesses have opened new pop-up stores at Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport, offering travelers Berries By Quicha gourmet goodies and Diva By Cindy natural hair care products.

The new shops are part of the airport’s Launch Pad program, which creates opportunities for entrepreneurs to jumpstart their business in the airport retail environment. Berries By Quicha and Diva By Cindy join existing Launch Pad operators at BWI Marshall Airport, Fashion Spa House and Fran’s Organic Body Care.

“The Launch Pad program gives local entrepreneurs the opportunity to reach millions of travelers with their unique products," said Ricky Smith, Executive Director of BWI Marshall Airport. "The addition of these small businesses helps keep our concessions program fresh and exciting.”

Founder LaQuicha Brown of Baltimore brings her gourmet chocolate-covered strawberry shop to the airport, using the freshest berries and quality ingredients in each hand-dipped creation. Sequoia Thompson of Baltimore is the proud new franchise owner of Diva By Cindy, a natural hair care line. Founder Cindy Tawiah, from Maryland, built a brand that offers business and franchise opportunities for women and also supports homeless women and survivors of domestic violence.

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