By Tashi McQueen
AFRO Staff Writer
Tmcqueen@afro.com
On the heels of her newly announced economic growth agenda, Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) and the D.C. Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD) unveiled a $570,000 investment in local retailers on May 12 to support her economic plan.
The 2025 Robust Retail Grant Program awarded around 60 small businesses throughout all eight wards. The program will provide up to $10,000 in grants to brick-and-mortar businesses in the district to help them with necessary expenses such as rent, marketing and payroll.
“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy,” said Bowser at the live-streamed event on May 12. “ You hire D.C. residents, you add vibrancy to our neighborhoods and you keep dollars in D.C.”
According to DSLBD, 15 percent of “classifiable firms” are Black-owned, one of the country’s highest percentages. As well, 35 percent of businesses in the District are Black-owned.
The mayor’s growth agenda centers on advancing the district’s economic recovery by creating quality jobs, supporting local business owners, and reinvigorating commercial corridors. The agenda includes generating more jobs and revenue by lessening barriers to expansion and making conducting business in the District more accessible.
The 2025 Robust Retail Grant Program also includes particular funds for businesses along the North Capitol Street corridor, part of DSLBD’s efforts to revitalize commercial corridors and expand economic opportunity.
“At DSLBD, we believe that every business owner in D.C. or anyone considering starting a business should know we are your first stop,” said Rosemary Suggs-Evans, director of DSLBD. “Whether you need help getting started, navigating the licensing process, accessing capital or preparing to grow, we are here for you. DSLBD plays a vital role in providing technical assistance and hands-on support. Our office empowers local businesses and entrepreneurs to ensure they thrive in D.C.”
Since the Robust Retail Grant Program began in 2019, the city has awarded over $4 million to around 500 local businesses.