(Washington, DC) — In recognition of Black Business Month, the DC Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD) will highlight the District’s diverse small business community. This includes showcasing resources, programs, and investments that strengthen entrepreneurship and expand access to capital for businesses across every ward. These efforts reflect the Bowser Administration’s ongoing commitment to supporting and growing DC’s vibrant business ecosystem.
“DSLBD remains focused on making it easier for DC entrepreneurs to access resources that fuel growth and create jobs,” said Rosemary Suggs-Evans, Director of DSLBD. “These grants are about meeting business owners where they are, whether they’re home-based creatives or community anchors in Ward 8. We are proud to stand with Mayor Bowser in celebrating Black Business Month with real investments that open doors.”
As part of its ongoing work to strengthen DC’s small business ecosystem, DSLBD is offering several targeted grant opportunities this summer. These programs are designed to meet business owners where they are—whether launching a new venture, expanding operations, or seeking access to capital—and ensure entrepreneurs across all eight wards have the tools and resources they need to thrive.
The Made in DC × ReFashion Market Access Grant provides up to $2,000 in reimbursable grants to DC-based creative entrepreneurs operating home-based, online, or mobile businesses without a storefront. Up to 25 awards will be made from a $50,000 total fund, with eligible expenses covering inventory, event participation, branding, and business operations. The grant application closes on August 22, 2025, at 2 p.m. ET.
The 2025 Ward 8 Community Investment Fund (Ward 8 CIF) supports resident-operated businesses located in Ward 8, with grant awards of up to $10,000. This program is designed to boost businesses and strengthen the local economy. With a total pool of $430,000, DSLBD expects to award between 43 and 86 grants. Applications for this opportunity are due by August 18, 2025, at 2 p.m. ET.
The FY25 District Capitalized Revolving Fund Manager Grant will award up to three grants with $298,000 in total funding available to eligible financial partners to expand DSLBD's support of equitable access to capital for qualified DC businesses facing barriers in accessing lines of credit and other financing with traditional funders. It aims to extend the impact of DSLBD funding and increase the number of business beneficiaries by revolving the initial funds and supporting community lenders’ efforts to establish business credit reporting for DC-based businesses. Applications for this opportunity are due by August 25, 2025, at 2 p.m. ET.
Through these grant programs, the Bowser Administration and DSLBD are delivering on the promise of inclusive prosperity, ensuring that the District’s Black business community has access to meaningful resources that promote resilience, growth, and long-term success.
To learn more about available grant opportunities and how DSLBD can support your local business, visit dslbd.dc.gov/service/current-funding-opportunities.