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Happy Thanksgiving from DMPED
This holiday season, we pause to reflect on what truly makes DC strong: our neighborhoods, our businesses, and our people. Even amid unexpected changes and challenges this year, the District continues to show resilience and a spirit of unity.
At DMPED, we are thankful for the employees, owners and patrons who keep DC’s doors open and provide us with goods, services, and good cheer. That’s why Mayor Bowser recently announced the next round of retail grants, which provide funding for local businesses through the Great Streets program, the Emerging Retail Initiative, and the Locally Made Manufacturing Grant Program, all designed to drive job creation, business opportunity, and neighborhood vibrancy across Washington, DC.
As we prepare for the Thanksgiving holiday this week, we are deeply grateful for DC’s local business community and all their employees who help build and grow DC. On that note, remember to shop local this holiday season!
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Mayor Bowser Awards Grants to Support Local Businesses —
Next Round Opens December 12
Earlier this week, Mayor Muriel Bowser celebrated DC’s small business community at Atlas Brew Works’ new Bridge District location, announcing the FY25 recipients of the Great Streets and Emerging Retail Fund programs. This year, DMPED awarded more than $1 million to 25 businesses, fueling innovation, job creation, and neighborhood revitalization across all eight wards.
Deputy Mayor Albert also announced that the next round of funding for Great Streets, the Emerging Retail Initiative, and the Locally Made Manufacturing Grant Program will open December 12, 2025, with applications due by January 16, 2026. DMPED will host information sessions to guide business owners through the process.
Since 2015, these programs have invested over $55 million in 575+ businesses, creating more than 2,400 jobs for DC residents. New this year is the Emerging Retail Initiative, which is designed to help existing businesses expand into vacant commercial spaces, strengthening corridors citywide.
In addition, the Bowser Administration continues to expand access to capital through DC BizCAP, which has delivered $25.4 million in funding to small businesses, leveraged $65 million in investments, and created 2,300 jobs — with more than 80% of recipients being minority or women- owned.
Learn more and prepare to apply at ObviouslyDC.com/business-funding-opportunities.
DC Spotlight in Site Selection Magazine
The latest issue of Site Selection Magazine spotlights the District as a hub where innovation meets opportunity.
Inside the feature:
- Exclusive interview with Mayor Muriel Bowser on how DC is fueling inclusive growth
- Insights from Deputy Mayor Nina Albert on the city’s bold economic vision
- Tech spotlight showcasing DC’s thriving ecosystem — from startups to global leaders
- Stories of how businesses are scaling in the nation’s capital with access to talent, funding, and decision‑makers
From fintech to life sciences, cybersecurity to civic innovation, DC is proving that it’s leading the future of business. Read the full feature in Site Selection Magazine and discover why companies are choosing DC to launch and grow their business.
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Talent Capital: The Region's Connected Workforce Hub
 With Talent Capital, the District is supporting job seekers with matching their unique skills with great opportunities that keep them in the region. Powered by BuildWithin, a DC-based tech company, this new platform offers free AI-driven job matching, training, reskilling, and career navigation services, complemented by personalized support from partners across the DMV. It goes beyond job titles, matching people to opportunities based on their skills, experience level, aspirations, and location. It also highlights training and credentials to support smooth career transitions.
DC is creating real pathways to opportunity, across tech, healthcare, government, and more, so that residents can grow and thrive right here at home. Learn more at talentcapital.ai and check out a video of the platform here.
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Curious about how transportation is evolving in the heart of our city? Visit the Downtown Transportation Planning website to explore how we're shaping a safer, more connected, and more vibrant downtown for everyone—whether you walk, bike, ride, or drive. Stay informed, share your feedback, and be part of the journey as we plan for a better, more accessible future. Learn more here.
Applications for District Sustainability Awards Open on Dec. 1
The application period for the 2026 District Sustainability Awards will open on December 1. The awards highlight businesses, individuals, and organizations that are working toward a more sustainable DC, with a special category for clean energy projects. These are the leaders who make the District healthier, greener, and a more enjoyable place to live for all. Learn more about the awards and read case studies of past winners here.
Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Grant
Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Grant offers $10,000 to eligible U.S. based small businesses that enroll in Verizon’s free Digital Ready platform and complete any two online courses or virtual events by December 10, 2025. The program is designed to help businesses strengthen their digital skills, improve operations, and support long-term growth. Applications are open now and due December 10, 2025. Learn more here.
District Capitalized Revolving Fund
Mayor Bowser's District Capitalized Revolving Fund Program is now open, offering small businesses micro-lines of credit up to $10,000 and loans to support growth and stability. Managed by EatsPlace and Life Asset under the Department of Small and Local Business Development, the fund helps entrepreneurs who struggle with traditional financing by providing affordable capital, credit-building support, and reinvested repayments to sustain future loans. Applications are open through December 12, 2025. Learn more here.
Special Event Relief Fund
Applications are open for the Special Event Fund, which helps cover District government fees for free, outdoor events that celebrate DC culture and drive local economic impact. Applications are open on a rolling basis for events occurring through September 30, 2026.
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2025 Downtown DC Holiday Happenings
Downtown DC is creating fun, safe, and family friendly experiences during the holiday season. From the Downtown Holiday Market to the Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Celebration, there is something for everyone. Join DMPED and the Downtown BID to support our city through food, art, culture and entertainment because a thriving downtown means a thriving DC.
Small Business Saturday
Champion small businesses nationwide and #ShopSmall on Saturday, November 29, 2025. When you shop small, DC grows big. Explore neighborhood gems, meet the owners, and find gifts with heart - all across the District. Learn more.
Winter Wonderfest at Nationals Park—November 28 to December 30, Nationals Park
Celebrate the season with Winter Wonderfest at Nationals Park! On select days from November 28 – December 30, Nationals Park will transform into Washington DC’s headquarters for all things thrilling, chilling, and fantastically fun. With a variety of family-friendly activities, such as tubing, a winter train, as well as a 21+ restricted Après Chalet by Fireball, located on the Nationals Park field, experience the sparkle of the District’s Diamond – only at Nationals Park! Purchase tickets here.
Holiday Boat Parade & Party—December 6, Wharf
This free event features 60+ beautifully decorated boats parading along up the Washington Channel, and fun holiday activities including hot toddies, live music, ornament decorating, holiday karaoke, family photos with Santa, fireworks and so much more. Learn more.
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The Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development
1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Suite 317, Washington, DC 20004
(202) 727-6365 ǀ http://dmped.dc.gov/
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