Support for local retail businesses through 2025 Robust Grant Program

District of Columbia Mayor Muriel Bowser and the D.C. Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD) announced that applications are open for the 2025 Robust Retail Grant Program.

This initiative, managed by DSLBD, aims to support District-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 March 31.

“Supporting D.C.’s local businesses means more jobs, stronger neighborhoods, and greater opportunities for residents,” said Bowser. “When we invest in our retail community, we’re not just helping businesses to grow—we’re making D.C. 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 of the wards, reinforcing the Bowser administration’s commitment to local entrepreneurs.

 “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,” said DSLBD Director Rosemary Suggs-Evans.”

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 fiscal year 2025. 

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 profit-oriented, consumer-facing, and independently owned with fewer than 25 full-time employees operating in a licensed retail location in the District.

The funding from the program can be used for employee wages and salaries, insurance costs, rent, utility expenses, inventory, cleaning supplies, new delivery or online costs, taxes, and debt obligations. The grant recipients will be announced during D.C. Small Business Week.

 “Our goal this year is to provide meaningful assistance that inspires ambition and fosters economic resilience,” said Suggs-Evans.

For full eligibility details and to apply, go to dslbd.dc.gov/robustretailgrant.