Every year the National Venture Capital Association reports growth in number of firms and investments for different parts of the country. This year their theme is that "nontraditional" venture regions are increasing venture action at a faster pace than stalwarts such as Silicon Valley and Boston. Of course, when you start from a base of near-zero, growing faster than the leaders is not difficult. New Mexico was the fastest grower from 1997-2007, but it started with only three companies and investment of $27 million. Baltimore-Washington grew from 105 companies to 180 companies and investment in the region went from $558 million to $1.28 billion, making it the No. 5 fastest grower. Here is the press release.