Round 2: Ward8CIF Grant Program

The DC Department of Small and Local Business Development is excited to announce that it will begin accepting applications for the FY26 Ward 8 Community Investment Fund (“Ward8CIF”) Grant Program, beginning August 7, 2026, at 2:00 pm ET. 

The Ward8CIF Grant Program is a DSLBD initiative created to increase the ease of doing business in the District. The FY26 Ward8CIF Grant Program will support Ward 8-based businesses by offering funding opportunities that promote equitable access to capital, sustainable business growth, and long-term success. The grant funds will reimburse eligible businesses for expenses incurred to maintain business operations and viability. 

DSLBD intends to award approximately forty-eight (48) grants,1 with a total of $430,000 in available funding for FY26. 

DSLBD anticipates reviewing grant applications beginning on August 24, 2026, and notifying awardees on or around September 10, 2026, but this timeframe is subject to change. 

Applicants must register and apply by CLICKING HERE. 

For more details, CLICK HERE