Software company from Columbia wins technology award

Columbia-based a2z Inc., a developer of online, real-time Web-based software used by associations, corporations and independent show organizers to manage and market conventions and other events, was honored with a "TechnoRising Star Award" at the opening breakfast of the eighth Maryland Technology Showcase.

The awards breakfast was sponsored by the University of Maryland.

The company, which won in the category of incubator companies, was honored for its development of software to increase productivity and revenue.

Rajiv Jain, president of a2z Inc., was recently named one of the "Top 40 Business Executives Under 40" by Baltimore Business Journal.

The awards recognized contributions to the advancement of technology in Maryland, philanthropic activities and success in a niche market as minority- or woman-owned businesses. Heron Systems Inc. of California, Md., and Early Morning Software Inc. of Baltimore also won.

Farm Credit co-op seeks scholarship applicants

MidAtlantic Farm Credit, a member-owned cooperative, has announced the availability of nine scholarships worth more than $10,000 total for students who attend a two- or four-year college.

The scholarships are available to members of MidAtlantic and their children. MidAtlantic has more than 9,000 members in Maryland, Delaware, southeastern Pennsylvania and the Eastern Shore of Virginia.

Applications must be received by Jan. 31.

Information: 800-477-9947.

School, business group team up to aid families

LeTip of Howard County, a chapter of an international business-building group, joined with pupils and faculty of Atholton Elementary School to help disadvantaged Columbia families during the holidays.

LeTip raised more than $1,000 for food, coats, gloves, boots, toys and other items. Pupils, teachers and staff members at the school also donated money and gifts.

The project, "Share the Spirit," helped seven families.

Information: 410-309-9686, or www.letiphc.com.