December 2024
Dear Customers, Colleagues, and Friends,
It has been a year of remarkable growth for the District, and we are proud to be a part of it. This year, we’ve strengthened partnerships with community stakeholders, sister agencies, and the business community. We’ve hosted more public events to engage with our community and made key system enhancements, creating a smoother, more efficient experience for our customers. Together, we will continue to innovate and build on this momentum.
May your holiday season be filled with joy, peace, and time spent with loved ones. Here’s to a prosperous and successful 2025, full of opportunities and growth.
Best regards,
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 Tiffany Crowe
Director
The year 2024 has been a remarkable one for DLCP, marked by significant strides in enhancing services, enforcing key regulations, and supporting the District’s growth. Our team’s commitment to consumer protection, streamlined processes, and community engagement has led to meaningful results for businesses, residents, and stakeholders across the city.
Here’s a look back at some of the key achievements that shaped this year’s success:
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Celebrating the One-Year Anniversary of the DC Business Portal: In partnership with the Office of the Chief Technology Officer (OCTO), DLCP marked the one-year anniversary of the DC Business Portal, a powerful tool for entrepreneurs to access resources to start or grow their businesses. Since its launch in February 2023, the portal has empowered over 13,500 individuals and supported more than 1,300 entrepreneurs in establishing or expanding their businesses.
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DLCP Adopts Practical Applications of Real Estate Appraisers Notice of Final Rulemaking: The approval of the Practical Applications of Real Estate Appraisers (PAREA) offers an alternative online program to the traditional supervisor-trainee model, helping trainees complete required hours amidst a shortage of supervisory appraisers.
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Architectural Licensure Amendment Adoption: DLCP adopted an amendment removing the five-year limit on A.R.E. scores, making them valid for the life of the exam plus one subsequent version. The update also introduces the IPAL program, allowing students to complete exams in school, and rebrands the Intern Development Program to the Architectural Experience Program (AXP). These changes benefit 56 candidates, with two closer to licensure.
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DC Startup & Tech Week 2024: Held across the DC metro area, this event celebrated innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology. DLCP participated by hosting a table, where staff engaged with attendees and distributed resources, aligning with its mission to support local entrepreneurs.
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Greater Washington DC Chamber of Commerce Open House Event: DLCP participated in the GWBCC's Open House at the Thurgood Marshall Center, providing a platform for networking and learning. In partnership with the Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD), DLCP’s Business Resource Center (BRC) connected with community leaders and stakeholders.
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DLCP’s BRC Community Outreach: DLCP’s BRC team engaged with diverse neighborhoods across DC, hosting workshops at Sycamore and Oak, General Business License Bootcamps with the Marshall Heights Community Development Organization, and Rapid Vending events in Columbia Heights, providing resources to support the city’s multicultural entrepreneurs and vendors.
The 2025 Presidential Inauguration is quickly approaching. Whether you're a business owner aiming to extend your hours during Inauguration Week or a mobile food vendor preparing to serve the crowds, it's important to take the necessary steps to confirm your participation. Continue reading to learn how the DLCP is here to guide you through the process.
Register for Extended Hours During Inauguration Week
As DC prepares for the 2025 Presidential Inauguration, businesses across the city are encouraged to register for extended hours of operation during Inauguration Week, which will be held from January 14–21, 2025. This opportunity is available to restaurants, taverns, nightclubs, hotels, and multipurpose facilities that hold alcohol licenses.
To accommodate the increased demand during this week, eligible businesses can apply to extend their operating hours. The deadline for submitting your registration is January 7, 2025.
Businesses interested in participating can find more information and access the registration form through the following link: https://lnkd.in/grWm3CZH.
We encourage all qualifying businesses to take advantage of this opportunity and be part of this momentous event.
2025 Inauguration Vending: A Step-by-Step Guide
The time to prepare for vending opportunities is running out. If you're interested in vending at this historic event, DLCP is here to guide you through the necessary steps. To help with the process, DLCP has released an informative video covering all key details for mobile food vendors.
Available on the DLCP website, the video outlines important dates for submitting your application, regulations from the Office of DC Health, vehicle dimension requirements, and the crucial Certificate of Clean Hands process to verify tax compliance.
Vendors must meet all tax requirements, and the video provides guidance on obtaining the necessary documents to be eligible for vending during the inauguration.
Please take a moment to familiarize yourself with the requirements. To watch the video and learn more about the application process, regulations, and deadlines, click below.
The upcoming tax season requires business owners to start preparing early for an efficient and smooth filing experience. According to the National Small Business Association (NSBA), approximately 40% of small businesses spend over 80 hours annually on tax preparation and compliance—a time investment that can be overwhelming without proper planning and support.
Patrick Phippen, founder of Phippen Tax & Financial Services in DC, understands the challenges businesses face. He describes his firm as a "money shop," specializing in tax preparation and financial services. With expertise in both accounting and law, Patrick helps clients navigate not only tax filings but also estate planning, providing comprehensive solutions for their financial needs.
Patrick's interest in taxes began early in his career, working as a math teacher. His passion for solving complex problems eventually led him to finance, where he found immense satisfaction in helping individuals and businesses achieve their financial goals. One of the most rewarding moments in his career was advising a client they could retire immediately, which made a profound impact on their life.
However, many businesses struggle during tax season, primarily due to poor record-keeping. Patrick points out that procrastination is a common issue, with many businesses waiting until the last minute to gather their financial documents. This leads to missed deductions and unnecessary stress. He emphasizes that keeping organized records doesn’t require a complicated system; a simple, accessible approach is sufficient to minimize errors and maximize deductions.
To prepare for tax season, Patrick offers several practical tips. Begin by confirming that you have access to all necessary records, including bank and credit card statements. Starting end-of-year accounting early will help avoid the rush as deadlines approach. Patrick also advises making key financial moves before the year ends, such as paying franchise taxes or making estimated payments, to help reduce your overall tax burden.
The tax landscape is constantly changing, so staying informed is critical. Patrick highlights that tax changes can vary depending on the type of business, especially when it comes to deductions for rental properties and asset tracking. Additionally, business owners must comply with new U.S. Treasury Beneficial Owner Information Reporting (BOIR) requirements, which must be filed by the end of the year.
For professional tax and financial guidance, visit Phippen Tax & Financial Services.
Did you know that December is National Write a Business Plan Month? This month, entrepreneurs are encouraged to create or refine their business plans, which can be helpful in guiding a business toward success. To support this effort, the DLCP Business Resource Center (BRC) is helping both new and existing entrepreneurs develop strong business plans. The BRC offers resources and guidance on business operations, licensing, and compliance in DC, helping entrepreneurs establish a solid foundation for their businesses. In support of this initiative, BRC members have been sharing their expertise throughout the month.
DLCP Business Resource Center: Connecting with the Community
On Tuesday, December 3, members of the DLCP Business Resource Center (BRC) and The Carlos Rosario School Small Business Program came together to host an informative session designed to assist program graduates interested in registering their businesses in the District. Twenty-five attendees participated, all eager and prepared to officially register their businesses in DC by January 2025.
The event featured presentations from Maria Llanos, Small Business Instructor, and Raul Medrano, Small Business Manager. Through this session, the BRC was able to provide essential information, answer questions, and offer insights into starting and growing businesses in DC.
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On Thursday, December 5, the DLCP team took part in the Department of General Services (DGS) Small Business Network Reception at the Department of Employment Services (DOES) on Minnesota Avenue NE. The Department of Small and Local Business (DSLBD), and Councilmember Keynan McDuffie were also in attendance. |
The event brought together Certified Business Enterprises (CBEs), local businesses, and entrepreneurs, providing a platform for fostering growth and building connections within the DC business community. |
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Attendees had the opportunity to engage in expert panel discussions, interactive workshops, and group Q&A sessions, while exploring opportunities related to contracting, financing, and personalized matchmaking consultations. The team was proud to connect with industry professionals and share resources to help support the success of local businesses. |
A special thank you to the BRC team for their ongoing commitment to advancing DLCP’s mission across the District.
Start the New Year strong at the 11th Annual FITDC Fresh Start 5K! Join the New Year’s Day tradition on Wednesday, January 1, 2025, at Anacostia Park, starting at 11:00 a.m.
This free, family-friendly event welcomes participants of all ages and fitness levels. On January 1, same-day registration opens at 9:00 a.m., followed by the Kids Dash at 10:15 a.m., and the 5K race at 11:00 a.m.
Sign up now at fitdcfreshstart5k2025.splashthat.com to secure your T-shirt, timed runner’s bib, and medal—available while supplies last!
Look below for DLCP-related Council happenings and new laws in December
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B25-749, the Amplified Sound Mitigation Amendment Act of 2024 - Introduced by Chairperson Phil Mendelson, this bill would (a) create a licensure requirement for the use of amplified sound devices in public space; (b) designates DLCP as the agency responsible for regulating the amplified sound devices; (c) amend 20 DCMR 2800 to regulate amplified sound in public space; (d) authorize the Mayor to designate the agencies responsible for enforcing various types of noise; and (e) update the specifications for sound-level meters. Passed on second/final reading - Dec. 17, 2024.
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B25-1048, the Entertainment Establishment Employee Temporary Amendment Act of 2024 - Introduced by Councilmember Christina Henderson, this temporary bill, which passed on first reading, will exempt Class C and D alcohol-licensed establishments (e.g., restaurants, taverns, nightclubs, etc.) and restaurants that remain open until 3 a.m. from being required to accept cash. Passed on second/final reading - December 17, 2024.
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B25-750, the Harmonious Living Amendment Act of 2024 - Introduced by Councilmember Brianne Nadeau, this bill would set soundproofing standards for new residential construction on mixed-use corridors and entertainment districts, with higher requirements for buildings within 300 feet of a performance venue. It would also, for existing buildings, require a new disclosure on lease or purchase agreements for residential properties in an entertainment or activity area that informs a new renter or buyer of nearby activity and long-established cultural institutions. Passed on second/final reading - December 17, 2024.
Contact DLCP via email, or our online inquiry form at any time. We’re also available through the live chat on dlcp.dc.gov or by phone at 202-671-4500 during normal business hours.
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