MARYLAND – Maryland occupies the No. 1 spot in the nation where minority-owned businesses are thriving, according to a recent analysis released by Lending Tree. Data shows that despite systemic challenges, Maryland’s minority-owned businesses continue to see an uptick, driving innovation and job creation, particularly in underserved communities. Additionally, Maryland has the sixth-highest percentage of businesses that are minority-owned overall, and 56.6%, over half, have been in business for six years or more.