DC Chamber of Commerce

03/15/2023

2023 Small Business and Economic Development Summit

Calling all small business owners in the DC area! Get ready for a day of learning, growth, and recognition. The 2023 Small Business Summit is taking place on May 9th and you won't want to miss it. Get your tickets now: https://l.dcchamber.org/23sbs.

The DC Chamber of Commerce 2023 Small Business Summit will convene leaders from across local & federal governments and the small business industry for a deep dive into the state of the District.

03/13/2023

Women in Leadership 2023 - Journey to The Top

🎉 Join 3/15 in celebrating Women's History Month with a panel of female leaders as they share their journeys in the business world! The panel includes SCORE CEO Bridget Weston, SCORE Foundation President Liz Sara, and Board Chairs Patricia Loftus and Tracy Shaw.

👩‍💼 Don't miss out on this empowering event! Live attendees will receive free business resources.

👉 Register now at https://swiy.co/Cfvj

In celebrating Women’s History Month, our panel of female leaders discusses their journeys in the business world.

03/12/2023

Hey , you can offer your employees affordable medical, dental, or vision insurance through DC Health Link: https://swiy.io/dchl-biz

03/10/2023

Women’s History Month Around DC: Art Exhibits, Tours, Concerts and More Ways to Celebrate

Happy Women's History Month! Let's celebrate the efforts of those who have worked tirelessly to expand human rights, create a more equal world and break barriers. Did you know that Women's History Month has its roots dating back to 1909, when a group of Manhattan socialists and suffragists started Women's Day in honor of a major garment strike? In 1987, Congress designated March as Women's History Month.

Don't miss out on the amazing historical sites around , and that share women's history stories! The National Park Service has a full-day itinerary to try, and entrepreneur Kaitlin Calogera recommends checking out the Female Union Band Society Cemetery in Georgetown. Other must-see sites include the Harriet Tubman Byway, Clara Barton National History Site, The Military Women's Memorial at Arlington National Cemetery, and the Turning Point Suffragist Memorial in Occoquan Regional Park.

But Women's History Month is about more than just historical sites! There are also performances, art exhibits, concerts, food and drink events, and many other ways to celebrate. Learn more at https://swiy.co/CfvJ

NBC Washington

Art exhibits, talks, musical performances, history tours and more ways to celebrate women’s achievement in Washington, D.C.

03/08/2023

Neighborhood Prosperity Fund (NPF) and Locally Made Manufacturing Grant Program

Exciting news! The Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development is inviting proposals for the Neighborhood Prosperity Fund. With up to $4 million in grants available, non-profit corporations, LLCs, developers and more are eligible to apply. Projects must be within NPF boundaries and combine 2 or more types of development. Application period closes Mar 25th. Don't miss this chance to boost your community! Learn more at https://swiy.co/CFrq

NPF incentivizes community development, economic growth, and job creation by leveraging local funds to provide financing for projects that attract private investment to distressed communities.

03/06/2023

2023 Small Business & Economic Development Summit Official Awards

Are you a owner in ? The DC Chamber of Commerce is honoring successful small businesses who have contributed to the growth of our community. Chamber members can nominate your business or another deserving business for the Small Business Awards. Click the link for more information: https://l.dcchamber.org/23sbs-awards

2023 Small Business Summit Official Awards Nomination Form Submission Deadline: Friday, March 31, 2023 Each year the DC Chamber of Commerce honors the success of small businesses who have contributed

03/04/2023

How to Raise Prices Without Losing Customers

Small businesses are facing challenges with inflation, pandemics and supply chain disruptions causing increased expenses. Consumers are also being cautious with their spending. Here is how you can raise prices without losing customers: https://swiy.co/C0oa.

You’ve been tracking your numbers regularly, and you know it’s time to raise prices. Follow these five do’s and don’ts to raise prices without losing customers.

03/02/2023

2023 Dream Pitch Program

The Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD) is accepting applications for the 2023 Dream Pitch Program. This 8-week program is for microbusinesses in Ward 7 & 8, culminating in a pitch competition with awards up to $7500.

Training in business pitch, financial projections, marketing & branding, and mentorship will be provided. Applications will be accepted through March 6, 2023. Learn more at https://swiy.co/dream-pitch.

The Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD) is excited to announce that they are accepting applications for the 2023 Dream Pitch Program.

02/28/2023

2023 Small Business and Economic Development Summit

Are you ready to take your small to the next level? Join us on May 9th for the 2023 Small Business Summit: https://l.dcchamber.org/23sbs.

Take advantage of workshops, keynote speakers, and networking opportunities. Complimentary spots are still available.

The DC Chamber of Commerce 2023 Small Business Summit will convene leaders from across local & federal governments and the small business industry for a deep dive into the state of the District.

02/26/2023

Hey , you can offer your employees affordable medical, dental, or vision insurance through DC Health Link: https://swiy.io/dchl-biz

02/24/2023

Support Our Local Black Businesses

It is . Support our & this and every month; check out the map and lists at https://l.dcchamber.org/support-black-biz to find a business near you.

Help Black business owners thrive. Learn how to support local Black-owned businesses.

02/22/2023

2023 Dream Pitch Program

The 2023 Dream Pitch Program is open! This 8-week program is for microbusinesses in Ward 7 & 8, culminating in a pitch competition with awards up to $7500. Training in business pitch, financial projections, marketing & branding, and mentorship will be provided.

Applications will be accepted until March 6, 2023. Review the Official Application Instructions to determine eligibility. Don't miss out on this opportunity to grow your business! https://swiy.co/dream-pitch

The Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD) is excited to announce that they are accepting applications for the 2023 Dream Pitch Program.

02/21/2023

Black History Month 2023

During Black History Month 2023, DC Public Library is lifting up those who have left their mark, using their words and actions to resist the oppression of the Black community. Join us for engaging events, check out thought-provoking reads, learn local history and explore your own relationship to resistance: https://swiy.co/CFsw . How can you embody resistance to make positive change in your community?

DC Public Library is lifting up those who have left their mark, using their words and actions to resist the oppression of the Black community.

02/20/2023

WeAspire 2023

is now accepting applications for the 2023 Training and Pitch Competition for DC residents with a justice involved (parole or probation) background. Join the 14-week training program, with a final pitch competition on June 24th. Receive $2,000 in awards, financial advising, marketing assistance, and mentorship.

Apply now: https://swiy.co/weaspire and take your business to the next level! .

The training program and competition are for DC residents who were previously incarcerated and/or justice involved (parole or probation) and seeking to build or launch their businesses.

02/20/2023

Small Business | DC Health Link

Hey , you can offer your employees affordable medical, dental, or vision insurance through DC Health Link: https://swiy.io/dchl-biz

02/18/2023

2023 Small Business and Economic Development Summit

Join us on May 9th for the 2023 Small Business Summit. A day of workshops, keynote speakers, and recognition of local small businesses. Register now: https://l.dcchamber.org/23sbs.

Plus the opportunity to showcase your business, network with local leaders, and gain exposure. Complimentary attendance is available.

The DC Chamber of Commerce 2023 Small Business Summit will convene leaders from across local & federal governments and the small business industry for a deep dive into the state of the District.

02/17/2023

Join us Feb 21 at 12pm for a webinar about the Grant Program: https://swiy.co/gsr-grant-webinar.

The purpose of the grant is to support existing small businesses, attract new businesses, and transform designated commercial corridors into thriving and inviting neighborhood centers. Check eligibility and learn more at https://swiy.co/CFra.

Apply before Feb 24 at 5pm.

02/16/2023

DC Chamber Government Affairs Update - January 2023

This year, the DC Chamber of Commerce Government Affairs team continues to be very busy advocating on behalf of our DC Chamber members. January Government Affairs updates include topics related to:

Council Scorecard
Tax Revision Commission
B24-0558 “Stop Discrimination by Algorithms Act of 2021”
DC Cashout Law
DC’s Comeback Plan

and more. Read all about them at https://l.dcchamber.org/ga-jan23

Our January government affairs update includes highlights of our Government Affairs team work on behalf of Chamber members over the past month.

02/15/2023

Lead in DC Drinking Water - Protecting Yourself and Your Family

Join the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Campaign to Reduce Lead Exposure and Childhood Asthma for a Virtual Town Hall on in drinking . Learn about the risks associated with , screening recommendations for young children, district resources to identify lead pipes, and tips to protect your family.

The American Academy of Pediatrics, DC Chapter, in partnership with the Campaign to Reduce Lead Exposure and Childhood Asthma is hosting a Virtual Town Hall to raise awareness on the risks associated with lead in drinking water.

02/14/2023

FY23 Great Streets Retail Small Business Grant

Attention small business owners in ! The Great Streets Retail Grant is open for applications.

This grant has helped hundreds of small businesses renovate their storefronts and drive profitability. Eligible businesses can receive awards up to $80,000 for storefront renovations, equipment purchases, and technology enhancements. Check if your business is located in one of the Great Streets Corridors and apply now before the deadline on February 24th at 5 PM ET!

Learn more: https://swiy.co/CFra

​The purpose of the grant is to support existing small businesses, attract new businesses, and transform designated commercial corridors into thriving and inviting neighborhood centers.

02/13/2023

Ways to Celebrate Black History Month in Washington, DC | Washington DC

Celebrate Black History Month in with events, performances, historic sites, and museum exhibits that honor the rich cultural heritage of the community. From art exhibitions to community gatherings, there are many ways to immerse yourself in the history and culture. Don't miss out on these amazing opportunities to learn and celebrate: https://swiy.co/CFso!

. via Visit Washington DC

Discover some of the best ways to engage with DC’s African American culture and community this February

02/11/2023

Hey , you can offer your employees affordable medical, dental, or vision insurance through DC Health Link: https://swiy.io/dchl-biz

02/09/2023

2023 Small Business and Economic Development Summit

Small Business Owners, you won’t want to miss this!

Join the DC Chamber of Commerce, May 9th 7:30a - 3:30p, as we convene leaders from across local & federal governments and the small business industry for our annual Small Business Summit.

This event will take a deep dive into the state of the District of Columbia’s small business industry and the future vision, policy, and programs for all businesses.

Learn more at https://l.dcchamber.org/23sbs. Sponsorship opportunities are available.

The DC Chamber of Commerce 2023 Small Business Summit will convene leaders from across local & federal governments and the small business industry for a deep dive into the state of the District.

02/06/2023

7 Questions to Ask Before Making a Large Business Investment

7 Questions to Ask Before Making a Large Investment. Here are a few questions to help you get started in this fearfully exciting journey of making investments... https://swiy.io/7Ri-

Are you prepared to make a big investment for your business? Use these questions to evaluate whether or not you should move forward.

02/03/2023

Contracting assistance programs

Interested in learning about ? Head to https://swiy.co/8g5O for guides, assistance programs, and more from the .

The federal government uses special programs to help small businesses win at least at 23 percent of all federal contracting dollars each year.

02/01/2023

2023 Dream Pitch Program

The Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD) is accepting applications for the 2023 Dream Pitch Program. This 8-week program is for microbusinesses in Ward 7 & 8, culminating in a pitch competition with awards up to $7500.

Training in business pitch, financial projections, marketing & branding, and mentorship will be provided. Applications will be accepted through March 6, 2023. Learn more at https://swiy.co/dream-pitch.

The Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD) is excited to announce that they are accepting applications for the 2023 Dream Pitch Program.

01/30/2023

11 Small Business Negotiation Strategies and Tips for Business Owners

11 Small Business Negotiation Strategies and Tips for Business Owners https://swiy.io/6ILk Via

Use these tips from other small business owners to improve your negotiation skills.

01/28/2023

Write your business plan

Write your business plan: https://swiy.io/7Riy. Your plan is the foundation of your business. Learn how to write a business plan quickly and efficiently with a business plan template.

Your business plan is the foundation of your business. Learn how to write a business plan quickly and efficiently with a business plan template.

01/25/2023

Employer Recognition Awards – Commuter Connections

Gain recognition for your outstanding commuter benefits programs! The Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments’ (MWCOG) Commuter Connections program is now accepting applications for the 26th Annual Employer Recognition Awards.

Awards will be given in three categories: Incentives, Marketing, and Telework—and the deadline for applications is January 31, 2023.

For 25 years, the Employer Recognition Awards have honored employers in the Washington, DC metropolitan region who initiate, enhance, or expand outstanding commuter benefits programs that encourage the use of alternative transportation methods. Learn more and apply for the 2023 Employer Recognition Awards by visiting https://swiy.co/C1Gu.

The Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments and its Commuter Connections program invite you to apply for the 2023 Employer Recognition Awards.

01/25/2023

Open Enrollment is open through 1/31/2023. Shop, compare and save on plans that fit your needs and budget: https://swiy.io/dchealthlink.

and need right away? residents can enroll through a special enrollment period. If you work for a with on DC Health Link, enroll now.

01/23/2023

is the most city in , making it a prime place for new to set up shop and a great place for businesses looking for top talent. Learn more at https://swiy.co/7sm2

01/21/2023

2023 UDC Capital Cup Entrepreneurship Competition | School of Business & Public Administration

Calling all high school entrepreneurs! Join the 2023 UDC Capital Cup Entrepreneurship Competition and showcase your business ideas on a global stage. Win thousands in startup funds, gain valuable feedback and meet potential mentors and investors. Learn more at https://swiy.co/BypP and submit your proposal by March 1st. Don't miss out on this opportunity!

The Capital Cup Entrepreneurship Competition will bring the Entrepreneurship competition to every high school in America and to every country in the world, offering smart, innovative young people the opportunity and incentive to create business ideas that can change the world.

01/18/2023

Mayor Bowser and the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development recently released DC's Comeback Plan: Our 2023-2027 Economic Development Strategy: https://swiy.co/comeback.

Head to https://publicinput.com/p3251 to submit your ideas on DC's Comeback Plan by February 1st, 2023.

01/18/2023

Open Enrollment is open through 1/31/2023. Shop, compare and save on plans that fit your needs and budget: https://swiy.io/dchealthlink.

and need right away? residents can enroll through a special enrollment period. If you work for a with on DC Health Link, enroll now.

01/15/2023

Inclusive Innovation Equity Impact Fund

Apply to the Inclusive Innovation Equity Impact Fund before Jan 31st!

The Inclusive Innovation Equity Impact Fund will support businesses eligible to be Equity Impact Enterprises (EIE) with training and investment in the form of revenue or equity-based financing.

An equity impact enterprise is a resident-owned, small business that is at least 51% owned by an individual who is, or a majority number of individuals who are economically disadvantaged or have been subjected to racial or ethnic prejudice or cultural bias.

Get started:

The Inclusive Innovation Equity Impact Fund supports District-based equity impact enterprises or businesses eligible to be equity impact enterprises with training and investment in the form of revenue or equity-based financing.

01/13/2023

Influenza Resources | DC Health

has information about and keeping yourself and your safe and health during season:

What is Influenza?

01/11/2023

This virtual town hall will feature experts on Hispanic health and will address the following: Health issues that most impact the Hispanic community, Overcoming barriers and access to care, Lifestyle and wellness: optimizing Hispanic health, Immigrant health: access and resources. Salud! to your good health. Register now @ https://swiy.co/BsMh

In partnership with: American Academy of Pediatrics (DC Chapter), DC Health Link, El Tiempo Latino, Greater Washington Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Latin American Youth Center.

01/10/2023

The Chamber is excited to work closely with the Mayor Bowser administration for the betterment of our communities and the community.

DC's comeback is focused on equity. Our plan is about unlocking the full potential of our people, our neighborhoods, and our businesses over the next five years and beyond.

Learn more: tinyurl.com/DCsComeback

01/10/2023

Incentives - District of Columbia

The of Columbia offers a wide variety of incentives for businesses looking to locate or expand their business in the nation’s capital. As ’s lead agency, encourages you to pursue those incentives and programs that best fit your . https://swiy.co/7oPV

The District of Columbia offers a wide variety of incentives for businesses looking to locate or expand their business in the nation’s capital.

01/08/2023

DC’s Comeback Plan

On Monday, 1/9 at 11 a.m. Mayor Bowser will release DC’s Comeback Plan. More than a thousand stakeholders contributed to the plan. DC’s Comeback Plan is a tool for setting DC’s economic development goals for the next five years, and it centers around making DC a place for successful businesses, opportunity-rich neighborhoods, and thriving people.

The plan serves as the District’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) and will be submitted to the U.S. Economic Development Administration in the Department of Commerce enabling the District, local nonprofits, and universities to pursue certain types of federal funding. The full plan will be posted on https://swiy.co/comeback.


WHEN:
Monday, January 9 at 11:00 am

WHO:
Mayor Muriel Bowser
John Falcicchio, DC's Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development
Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie, At-Large
Councilmember Brooke Pinto, Ward 2

WHERE:
Studio by Tishman Speyer
900 19th St NW 6th floor
Washington, DC 20006
*Closest Metro Station: Farragut North*
*Closest Bikeshare Station: 19th & K St NW*

WATCH:
mayor.dc.gov/live
Channel 16
Mayor Bowser on Facebook

Every five years, the District of Columbia updates its economic development strategy. The strategy is a tool for identifying challenges and opportunities, setting goals and priorities, guiding action and investments, and aligning stakeholders to achieve a shared vision.