and the announced that applications are open for the 2025 Robust Retail Grant Program.
This initiative, managed by DSLBD, aims to support District-based retail businesses with a funding opportunity of $10,000. This year, 48 businesses will be selected through a lottery process.
Applications will be accepted until March 31.
鈥淪upporting D.C.鈥檚 local businesses means more jobs, stronger neighborhoods, and greater opportunities for residents,鈥 said Bowser. 鈥淲hen we invest in our retail community, we鈥檙e not just helping businesses to grow鈥攚e鈥檙e making D.C. a place where entrepreneurs can thrive and residents can enjoy vibrant, connected communities.鈥
Since the program鈥檚 inception in 2019, DSLBD has allocated $4 million to nearly 500 retail establishments across all eight of the wards, reinforcing the Bowser administration鈥檚 commitment to local entrepreneurs.
鈥淭he Robust Retail Grant represents an investment in the future of our physical retail establishments, offering essential financial support to help them overcome challenges and adapt to changing market conditions,鈥 said .”
As part of the 2025 Robust Retail initiative, DSLBD will support small businesses along the North Capitol Main Street corridor through a targeted grant opportunity. With a total of $90,000 in available funding, DSLBD intends to award up to $10,000 each to nine eligible businesses in fiscal year 2025.
This investment aims to strengthen the corridor鈥檚 commercial vitality, enhance economic growth, and support local entrepreneurs in building a thriving retail environment. To qualify, businesses must be profit-oriented, consumer-facing, and independently owned with fewer than 25 full-time employees operating in a licensed retail location in the District.
The funding from the program can be used for employee wages and salaries, insurance costs, rent, utility expenses, inventory, cleaning supplies, new delivery or online costs, taxes, and debt obligations. The grant recipients will be announced during.
鈥淥ur goal this year is to provide meaningful assistance that inspires ambition and fosters economic resilience,鈥 said Suggs-Evans.
For full eligibility details and to apply, go to聽.