Celebrate DC Small Business Week 2026!
Join the DC Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD) in celebrating DC Small Business Week 2026, taking place May 4–9, in recognition of National Small Business Week. This week is dedicated to uplifting the local businesses that help drive DC’s vibrant economy and strengthen our neighborhoods.
Across the District, more than 75,000 small businesses power our local economy and bring energy to all eight wards. From storefronts and restaurants to home-based entrepreneurs and creative businesses, small businesses are the backbone of DC—creating jobs, activating corridors, and keeping dollars circulating locally.
This year’s theme, Run Through the Tape, reflects a decade of investment in small and local businesses and our commitment to finishing strong. Through the FY27 budget, the District continues to prioritize small business growth by expanding access to capital, strengthening procurement pathways, and making it easier to start, grow, and sustain a business in DC.
Explore the week’s events and connect with the resources, agencies, and partners dedicated to helping DC businesses succeed.
DC Small Business Week 2026 Events
Monday – Kickoff Event
Small Business Solution Expo: Get Answers. Get Connected. Get Moving.
May 4, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Location: MLK Library
Register for the Small Business Solution Expo
Monday launches DC Small Business Week with a high-impact, resource-driven “pull up and solve” event, highlighting a decade of investment in small and local businesses while reinforcing continued momentum.
What to expect:
- On-the-spot support for business licensing and registration through DLCP
- Assistance with tax requirements and Clean Hands certification through OTR
- Guidance on CBE certification and NIGP codes to unlock contracting opportunities
- Access to capital and financing resources, including potential quick funding pathways
- Procurement and contracting connections, including opportunities to join vendor and bidders lists
- Direct engagement with District agencies ready to help you move forward
- Free professional headshots to support your brand and marketing materials
- Social media support with tips to strengthen your online presence and grow your business
Participating agencies:
- Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED)
- Office of Contracting and Procurement (OCP)
- Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP)
- Department of Insurance, Securities, and Banking (DISB)
- Office of Tax and Revenue (OTR)
- Department of Employment Services (DOES)
- DC Pro Bono Center
Tuesday – DC PowerUP
Health Coverage for Business Sustainability
May 5, 2026 | 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Location: MLK Library
As part of Small Business Week, DC Health Link and the Department of Insurance, Securities, and Banking present the 2026 POWERUP DC Small Business Summit and Expo. This solutions-driven event is designed to help entrepreneurs and nonprofit leaders build resilience, navigate challenges, and grow.
Centered on the theme Resilience, Survival, and Growth, this event brings together business owners, industry experts, and local leaders for a full day of learning, connection, and action.
What to expect:
- Expert-led panels, workshops, and interactive sessions
- Business coaching and speed networking opportunities
- Insights on access to capital, digital tools, and regulatory updates
- On-site support, including healthcare coverage guidance and enrollment assistance
- Vendor marketplace and opportunities to connect with resource partners
- Complimentary breakfast and event materials with registration
Thursday – Made in DC Market
Driving Sales and Visibility for Local Businesses
Location: 441 4th St NW
Learn more about the Made in DC Market
Thursday brings DC Small Business Week to life with a vibrant marketplace experience that connects local businesses directly with customers and drives real revenue.
The Made in DC Market, in partnership with DGS, will feature a curated selection of certified Made in DC vendors offering apparel, goods, gifts, and more—all rooted in local production and ownership.
What to expect:
- Curated Made in DC vendors with locally produced goods
- Opportunities for direct sales and customer engagement
- DC-based food trucks showcasing local culinary entrepreneurs
- Live music and entertainment (pending confirmation)
- An open, walk-up experience for residents, workers, and visitors
Saturday – Made in DC Mother’s Day Pop-Up
RSVP for the Mother’s Day Pop-Up
Celebrate Mother’s Day while supporting local businesses at this vibrant, community-driven pop-up experience.
The event brings together curated vendors, wellness activities, and engaging programming designed to uplift small businesses and create meaningful connections.
What to expect:
- Fresh florals by Flowers by Alexes
- Curated small business vendors and unique local products
- Live panel on entrepreneurship and business growth
- Interactive activities, including Pilates
- Live DJ and music
- Food options and a festive shopping atmosphere
This experience is designed to celebrate motherhood, highlight DC’s small business community, and bring together creativity, commerce, and connection in one place.
If you are a proud DC resident, a local business owner, or someone who supports vibrant communities, DC Small Business Week is designed for you.
Join the celebration with the #iBuyDC Campaign.
Join us in showing love to local businesses by participating in the #iBuyDC campaign, a citywide movement to uplift and invest in DC's small business economy.
Here's how to participate:
On Social Media:
- Post a photo or video of your favorite DC small business—shopping, dining, or exploring.
- Share a story about why supporting local matters to you.
- Use the hashtag #iBuyDC and tag @smallbizDC so we can amplify your support!
Stay Connected
Follow DSLBD on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook for event updates, behind-the-scenes looks, and highlights from around the city.
Let's grow together. Celebrate DC Small Business Week with us.