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Happy summer! I love this time of year in DC because traffic is easy, restaurant reservations are more easily made, and it’s a great time to connect with people, both personally and professionally!
In DMPED, July has been an important month because we announced two new pieces of legislation that are intended to continue to strengthen our housing ecosystem in the District. The Housing Investment Protection Act and Illegal Occupancy Enforcement Act work together to provide clearer, fairer, and more predictable policies that protect residents and support our efforts to provide more housing in DC. To learn more about these bills, read the Housing Investment Protection Act, Illegal Occupancy Enforcement Amendment Act, and Legislation Fact Sheet.
In our “Open for Business” section of today’s newsletter, you can also learn about the other pieces of legislation DMPED introduced in July to advance the Fletcher Johnson and the Georgetown Boathouse projects, as well as read about the Draft RFK Master Plan and H Street Land Use and Market Study.
Our work to grow DC’s economy and create new business and job opportunities for DC residents and entrepreneurs does not stop, even though we do get to use a little extra time in the summer months to reset and recharge!
Sincerely,
Deputy Mayor Albert
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DMPED Legislative Update
 Council recess began on July 15, and DMPED is using this time to advance key measures introduced by Mayor Bowser to grow our economy, build new housing, and create new opportunities for all Washingtonians. In addition to the Housing Investment Protection Act and the Illegal Occupancy Enforcement Amendment Act, the Mayor also introduced two key real estate projects for Council approval:
(1) Fletcher Johnson Surplus Declaration and Disposition Approval Act
The Fletcher-Johnson bill will allow for the development of mixed-use community, office, and retail space, as well as a health care facility, 800 units of rental and for-sale housing, and affordable senior assisted living. With its passing, the District will utilize a space that has been vacant since 2011 to bring vital healthcare access to Southeast DC, and it will revitalize the Marshall Heights neighborhood, providing green space for recreational and community activities, as well as retail-commercial space. This bill represents a robust investment in the people and economy East of the river.
(2) Georgetown Boat House Surplus Declaration of Disposition Approval Act
The Georgetown Boathouse bill is the culmination of a tri-party negotiation — facilitated by DMPED — between Georgetown University, the National Park Service, and the District. This will complete a decades long effort to realize expanded non-motorized boating activities along the Potomac River in Georgetown, as well as the construction of a Georgetown University Boathouse. The new boathouse will be an asset and opportunity for residents, young athletes, and visitors alike as the District embarks on our own planning work to increase and improve public access to the waterfront.
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Strategic Planning: RFK and H Street NE
 The Office of Planning recently released two major reports: the (1) Draft RFK Master Plan and the (2) H Street Land Use and Market Study. The RFK plan outlines a vision to transform 180 acres along the Anacostia River into a vibrant community with housing, retail, entertainment, recreation spaces, and a world-class stadium. The District is also evaluating how the H Street Corridor has evolved since 2004 to identify opportunities to strengthen its retail, public spaces, arts and culture, and its emerging role as a pre-game destination for stadium events. Together, these reports lay out a clear vision that equips residents, business owners, and stakeholders to seize the opportunities ahead.
Residents are encouraged to review both plans and share their feedback throughout the comment period. Through August 14, 2026, residents can share input on the draft RFK Campus Master Plan by taking the following actions:
To share input on the H Street Land Use and Market Study, residents are encouraged to take the H Street Study Feedback survey here by July 26, 2026.
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Washington, DC is home to more than 75,000 small businesses, representing over 98% of all businesses in the District. These businesses power our economy and employ nearly half of the private sector workforce. Under Mayor Bowser’s leadership, the District continues to invest in an inclusive business environment that supports entrepreneurs at every stage. DMPED has compiled a list of grant opportunities available across the public and private sector. Key open opportunities include:
DC Government Grants
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Arts and Humanities Education Projects – Up to $30,000 for DC non- profit organizations that advance high-quality arts and humanities learning for students. Applications close Friday, July 24, 2026, at 5:00 pm.
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Commercial Property Acquisition Fund – Up to $300,000 for DC businesses purchasing commercial property. Rolling applications until funds are allocated.
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Public Art Building Communities – $75,000 for individual artists, $125,000 for organizations, and $150,000 for Business Improvement Districts to design, fabricate, and install new permanent or temporary public art in publicly accessible outdoor spaces. Applications close on Monday, July 27, 2026, at 5:00 pm.
DC Neighborhood Focused Grants
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Palisades Main Street – Up to $3,000 for small businesses based in the Palisades. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
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The DC Chamber’s Small Business Accelerator Program – development initiative designed to help Washington, DC-based small businesses accelerate their growth through targeted education, strategic mentorship, and access to the Chamber’s extensive network and resources.
National Grants
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America’s Seed Fund – National Science Foundation offers up to $2 million for U.S.- based startups and small businesses developing deep technologies with commercial and societal potential. Accepted on a rolling basis.
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AT&T Small Business Contest - $50,000 grant and an AT&T internet connectivity package to take small businesses to the next level. Applications close Friday, July 31, 2026.
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Awesome Foundation Grant – Awards $1000 every month to small businesses. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
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Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program – Free online curriculum to support small businesses. Those who register for the program and take two courses are eligible for a $10,000 grant.
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July — Downtown Events
Downtown DC is creating fun, safe, and family friendly experiences throughout June and July. From Downtown DC Live! at Anthem Row to Fitness at Franklin, 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.
MAJIC Wednesdays
Wednesday, July 29 | 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM | Sycamore & Oak, 1110 Oak Dr SE
Join Vic Jagger, DJ Rico, DJ Face and the Majic family all summer for The DC Office Of Cable Tv, Film, Music and Entertainment (OCTFME) MAJIC Wednesdays for a free summer concert series in DC. Bring your friends and family to Sycamore & Oak every Wednesday evening this summer and let’s make this season unforgettable.
Rip! Tear! Collage Workshop and Closing Reception with Exhibited Artists
Thursday, August 6 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Eye Street Gallery, 200 I St SE, Washington, DC 20003
Join the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities for a closing reception and community collage workshop for Rip! Tear!: Collage as Critique. Exhibiting artists Helen Zughaib, Rebecca Perez, and Zsudayka Nzinga will guide hands‑on activities inspired by their distinctive practices, including paper and fabric collage. All are welcome to create, celebrate, and close the exhibition in community.
Caribbean Culture and Concert
Sunday, August 9 | 2:00 PM – 9:00 PM | Freedom Plaza, 1325 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Mayor’s Office of Caribbean Cultural Affairs (MOCCA) and the D.C. Caribbean Carnival, Inc. (DCCC) present the 3rd Annual Caribbean Cultural Concert. The free cultural exposition features a Kiddies Carnival, Parade of Costumes, cultural dancers, and the rhythms of Steelband, Rumba Band, Soca and Reggae Band.
Greater Washington Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Global Business Leadership Luncheon
Thursday, August 13 | 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM | Walter E. Washington Convention Center
Join GWHCC to highlight businesses and individuals that have made significant advancements in the international marketplace.
AI & Federal Contracting: Are You Ready For The New DOD Requirements
Wednesday, August 19 |12:00 PM – 1:30 PM | Virtual
New federal AI governance requirements are changing the landscape for Department of Defense contractors. Join us to learn what these updates mean for your business, how to prepare for compliance, and the steps you can take now to stay competitive in the federal marketplace.
Understanding Business Risk: A Small Business Guide to Hedging
Tuesday, August 25 | 10:00 AM | Virtual
From supply chain disruptions to changing customer demand, every business face risk.
Join GWHCC and Kalshi in this online webinar to learn how hedging and modern risk management tools can help your business prepare for uncertainty and make more informed decisions.
RAMW DC Summer Restaurant Week
Monday, August 24 through Sunday, August 30
Metropolitan Washington Summer Restaurant Week returns bringing a full week of 3-course menus and maximum flavor to heat up dining out.
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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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