(Washington, DC) – Today, Mayor Muriel Bowser and the Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD) announced that applications are now open for the 2025 Robust Retail Grant Program. This initiative, managed by DSLBD, aims to support DC-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 Monday, March 31, 2025.
“Supporting DC’s local businesses means more jobs, stronger neighborhoods, and greater opportunities for residents,” said Mayor Bowser. “When we invest in our retail community, we’re not just helping businesses grow—we’re making DC a place where entrepreneurs can thrive and residents can enjoy vibrant, connected communities.”
Since the program’s inception in 2019, DSLBD has allocated $4 million to nearly 500 retail establishments across all eight wards, reinforcing the District’s commitment to local entrepreneurs.
“Our goal this year is to provide meaningful assistance that inspires ambition and fosters economic resilience,” said DSLBD Director Rosemary Suggs-Evans. “The 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."
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 FY25. This investment aims to strengthen the corridor’s commercial vitality, enhance economic growth, and support local entrepreneurs in building a thriving retail environment.
To qualify, businesses must be for-profit, consumer-facing, and independently owned with fewer than 25 full-time employees operating a licensed retail location in DC.
The funding from the Robust Retail Grant Program can be utilized for:
- Employee wages and salaries
- Insurance costs
- Rent
- Utility expenses
- Inventory
- Cleaning supplies
- New delivery or online costs
- Taxes
- Debt obligations
The 2025 Robust Retail Grant Program recipients will be announced during DC Small Business Week, scheduled for Monday, May 5 through Friday, May 9, 2025.
For full eligibility details and to apply, visit dslbd.dc.gov/robustretailgrant and review the Request for Applications.
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