Sorry, you need to enable JavaScript to visit this website.

dslbd

Department of Small and Local Business Development
 

DC Agency Top Menu

-A +A
Bookmark and Share

Current Funding Opportunities

Launch to Legacy graphic. Be part of the legacy, the future starts with us.

FY26 Launch to Legacy Program

The DC Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD) is excited to announce that we will accept applications for the 2026 Launch to Legacy Program starting July 20, 2026. This advanced business development program is designed exclusively for alumni of the Dream and We Aspire Programs who are ready to strengthen, scale, and sustain their businesses for long-term success.

Selected businesses will receive hands-on training and support in the following areas:

  • Vision & Goal Setting
  • Business Scalability
  • Strategic Marketing Foundations
  • Financial Management
  • Leadership & Team Building


Eligibility Requirements:

Dream Accelerator Program Alumni

  • Operate a licensed, for-profit business located in Ward 7 or Ward 8
  • The majority owner must be a Ward 7 or Ward 8 resident and own at least 51% of the business
  • The majority owner must have successfully completed the Dream Program in FY22-25

We Aspire Program Alumni

  • Operate a licensed, for-profit business
  • The majority owner must be a District resident and own at least 51% of the business
  • The majority owner must have successfully completed the We Aspire Program in FY22-25


Participants who successfully complete the program will be eligible to receive a stipend of up to $3,500 to support the continued growth and sustainability of their business.

Application Period: July 20, 2026 – August 3, 2026
Final Deadline: August 3, 2026 at 2:00 PM ET (No late submissions will be accepted.)

Before applying, please review the Official Application Instructions below for full eligibility requirements and important program information.

APPLICATION LINK

Don’t miss this opportunity to build on the foundation you’ve already created and take the next step toward securing your business's long-term legacy.

For questions, join one of our information sessions or email [email protected].

*No phone inquiries will be accepted.

We look forward to receiving your application and supporting your continued business growoth.

Upoming Info Session:

Monday, July 27, 2026 at 10:00AM

*If you require a reasonable accommodation, please contact the ADA coordinator, Jenny Cruz, at [email protected].

 

 GRANT DEBRIEF AND GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES FOR APPLICANTS 

Contact TTY: 
711