February 21, 2024

Updates from Adams Morgan

Click Here to see previous updates in our newsletter archive

Check ObviouslyDC.com for the latest in DC government funding and grant opportunities for businesses.

Be prepared. Visit to Ready.DC.gov for preparedness information for a

variety of hazards including manmade and natural disasters.

2024 Annual Meeting and Board Elections

Adams Morgan Partnership Business Improvement District’s (AMPBID) Annual Meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 12th, from 8:30am to 11:00am at Venture X , 1763 Columbia Rd NW. A breakfast buffet will be available from 8:30am and presentations will begin at 9:30 am. Contact Kristen Barden for more information and to RSVP. The meeting will be streamed online . More details about the meeting and elections can be found on our website .

Board Elections: AMPBID holds elections every year at our annual meeting in March. The board consists of 15 seats, nine of which are reserved for commercial property owners and six for business owners. Board members are elected to serve three-year terms (unless they are replacing a board member who resigned before the end of their term). This year's election will be for 6 positions on the Board of Directors (3 property owners and 3 business owners). The nominations committee has concluded their work and no further board nominations will be accepted for this election.

Postcards with information about the AMPBID Annual Meeting were mailed to all AMPBID members last month. Ballots for the election were mailed last week. If you haven't received your ballot by Friday, February 23, please contact Brian Barrie .

Adams Morgan Date Nights is back!

Adams Morgan is your go-to place for a date! Whether you’re a father and son heading out for ice cream, going on a first date, enjoying a girls night out, or a married couple celebrating a double-digit anniversary, we’ll help make your time together special while in Adams Morgan.

Throughout February the community is invited to enjoy a variety of love-themed events, date lineups, and a chance to win one of five amazing date night packages.

Click here to enter the 2024 edition of Adams Morgan Date Nights! We'll be giving away five fabulous date packages containing everything from dinner & drinks to an overnight stay at The LINE Hotel DC. You have to enter to win, so keep an eye on our website and social media channels for more information.

Also, you can find our updated "Great Grid of Dates" with dozens of suggestions for an afternoon or evening out on the town in Adams Morgan.

Good luck!

Black History Month Business Spotlight:

Akil Wilson, Owner, Wilson’s Barbershop

As Black History Month celebrations continue, we are highlighting a few of our Black-owned businesses and community leaders in Adams Morgan! Get to know Akil Wilson of Wilson’s Barbershop in this Business Spotlight Q&A.

Adams Morgan Partnership BID (AMPBID): What makes your business unique? Tell us more about Wilson’s Barbershop.

Akil : Wilson’s Barber Shop is your neighborhood barbershop. We aim to be the best barbershop in Washington, DC; providing high quality service with a classic barbershop feel without the frills. We take great pride in being able to service any texture of hair. And… we have the best playlists in the city!

AMPBID : Tell us about a defining moment in your professional and/or personal life. Did you have an ah-ha moment that inspired you?

Akil : My ah-ha moment was being embraced by Black Barbershop owners at an early age. These men mentored me, gave me advice, and bought me my first set of clippers before heading off to college. Not to mention, they were the coolest guys I knew. They were successful businessmen and held an important position in the community.

AMPBID : What is the best career advice you’ve received? What is your favorite piece of advice to give?

Akil : The best advice I was ever given is, “Don’t quit.” The best advice I can give is to others: Study your craft, keep showing up, and continue to learn.

AMPBID : What’s your favorite part about the Adams Morgan community and why?

Akil : Adams Morgan is definitely the most diverse community in D.C. I regularly meet people from all over the world. Adams Morgan is a great blend of people who have moved from other places and native Washingtonians that are well versed in the history of the city.

AMPBID : What’s something your customers may not know about you and/or your business that might surprise them?

Akil : Here are three things that might surprise shop clients:

I used to work on Capitol Hill as a legislative aide.

I was the first employee hired at Wise Owl’s Club, the barbershop that was previously at this location. I stepped away from barbering to pursue a career in journalism.

I host a podcast!

AMPBID : Is there a Black writer, podcast host, Black-owned business, or someone else you’d like to spotlight/give a shout out to that has inspired you?

Akil : My Father, George Wilson, a prolific writer and international broadcaster. He was the longest tenured Black Capitol Hill Correspondent in the Senate Radio & TV gallery; encompassing 30 years. He encouraged me to stay aware of current events and have important conversations to increase my connection and understanding of the world I live in.

Wilson’s Barbershop is located at 2010 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20009. Wilson’s Barbershop is open Tuesday - Friday: 9am-7pm, Saturday 9am-5pm, and Monday 9am-3pm. Be sure to follow them on social media at @wilsonson18th .

Alert: Ann Hughes Hargrove Park is closed for renovation

The DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) and the DC Department of General Services (DGS) would like to inform the community that Ann Hughes Hargrove Triangle Park (located at 19th Street NW/Kalorama Road NW/Columbia Road NW) is temporarily closed for renovation. DPR will update the community once the renovation is complete.

Residents are welcome to contact DPR's Customer Care Center by phone at (202) 673-7647 or by email at dprcustomercare@dc.gov should you have any additional questions.

Project Update For Your Area-Small Diameter Water Main Replacement Project

Week of February 19

California Street NW, between 18th and 19th Streets NW

Monday, February 19 – Friday, February 23: Throughout this week, we are performing water service reconnections to individual properties at this location

Belmont Road NW, between Columbia Road NW and 18th Street NW

Monday, February 19 – Thursday, February 22: This week, we are also performing pressure testing, chlorination and bacteriological testing of newly installed water main at this location

Week of February 26

California Street NW, between 18th and 19th Streets NW

There are no construction activities scheduled for this location next week.

Belmont Road NW, between Columbia Road NW and 18th Street NW

There are no construction activities scheduled for this location next week.

Please keep in mind that these construction activities are highly dependent upon favorable weather conditions. Questions should be directed to Director of Community Affairs Emanuel D. Briggs, (202) 787-2003 or emanuel.briggs@dcwater.com

Happy Workday Wednesday!

Venture X Washington DC-Adams Morgan is offering Workday Wednesday's EVERY Wednesday for the month of March. Venture X will be hosting "Business and Bagels" in the morning- an opportunity to gather and network with us and other members. Work with a team? Bring your colleagues with you and we will set your team up in a private office for a free trial. Please RSVP

"March Madness" Hiring Event

For the month of March, Jubilee Jobs will host diverse employers every business day in what the workforce development industry refers to as the ‘March Madness’ month!

If you are an employer who would like to participate or would like more information, please contact Quinntez Washington .

Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon returning March 16

This is a reminder that the Rock ‘n’ Roll Washington DC Half Marathon and 5k is on March 16, 2024.

The race route has not changed since last year and will come into Adams Morgan via Calvert Street and the Ellington Bridge, turn east onto Columbia Rd., continuing to Harvard St. where it will turn right and continue into Columbia Heights.

Updates from RAMW

Streatery Update: Streateries Extended

On December 21, 2023, the Mayor signed the Streatery Program Extension Emergency Amendment Act of 2023 extending the popular public amenity through Tuesday, December 31, 2024.

On-Premises Retailers that have been issued a Streatery Endorsement may sell and serve alcohol on ground or street level outdoor public or private spaces not licensed by ABCA daily between 8:00 a.m. and midnight.

With the extension, applicable licensees must remit payment for the annual Streatery Endorsement fee by 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 1, 2024 .

Failure to meet the payment deadline may result in fines and/or license or endorsement revocation.

Additional information about Streateries is available on ABCA's website . Streatery guidelines are available on the District’s Department of Transportation's website . Direct endorsement questions to ABCA.AlcoholLicensing@dc.gov .

Spring is in the Air! Sign Up for Spring Wine Fling Today

As we look forward to the change in seasons and planning for spring activities, we invite you to be part of our 2024 Spring Wine Fling, the promotion that helps turn the winter blues into reds, whites, and rosés!

Join our wine-centric promotion to draw diners to your restaurants - and kick off on the Spring Equinox - for a dining experience that is complimented by wine that you'd like to feature.

This year's promotion is Two Glasses, Two Courses, One Price!

Participating restaurants will offer a two-course dinner menu, at the $55 promotional price point, with each course paired with a glass of wine of your choosing.

You choose the App + Entree combination from your menu or create a special dish. Wine-inspired menus and dishes are encouraged but not required.
Pair wine options with each courseOffer the pairing at the SWF Price Point: $55 per person (excluding tax/gratuity)
Available for Dinner service only

Spring Wine Fling will start on the first day of Spring, Tuesday, March 19, and run through Sunday, March 31, 2024.

Cost: $150 per location; Deadline to register: March 11, 2024

Sign up here.

Seeking restaurants to participate in the 2024 Cherry Blossom Festival Pink Tie Party

March 15, 2024 from 7:00pm - 11:00pm

The National Cherry Blossom Festival invites your restaurant to participate at the Pink Tie Party which celebrates the season of blossoms and all that it entails. More than 800 attendees will join the highly anticipated evening featuring an array of entertainment that immerses them into a world of sites and bites as experienced through iconic global springtime locations. Twenty restaurants will be showcased, serving 550 portions to 800 guests, including tastemakers and influencers from Washington’s social and professional communities. Register here

Save the Date! Annual Meeting March 25

The 2024 RAMW Annual Meeting is just over a month away: Mark your calendars for Monday, Mar. 25, 9:30 am to 1 pm at the historic Watergate Hotel.

What’s in Store : An expanded and updated program covering the year ahead at RAMW, the latest in legislation and public policy, as well as restaurant operations.
Tickets : Cost $25 and go on sale in March.
Endorsed Providers and Allied Members : A limited number of exhibitor and sponsorship opportunities are available. Contact Che to learn more.

Dram Shop, Secure DC Final Vote in March

Following last week’s successful votes for both dram shop reform and the Secure DC Act , Councilmembers are expected to take their second and final vote on both March 5.

Recap : The Restaurant Revitalization and Dram Shop Clarification Act adds key definitions and standards to dram shop law to lower the exorbitant cost of the District’s liquor liability insurance.
Also : The 100+ page Secure DC bill puts forward an extensive package of public safety proposals, including a pause on the Cashless Retailers Prohibition Act until January 2025.
Stay Tuned : More updates to come on possible amendments to end the tip credit in July 2025, better protection for operators from frivolous service charge lawsuits, and how service charges are classified.

Share Your Women’s History Month Stories

March is Women’s History Month, and we’re shining a light on the remarkable achievements of our very own RAMW Women Chefs, Restaurateurs, and Restaurant staff.

Join the Celebration: Send your pictures and stories to Keiristin today.

You’re Invited: Acme Paper Innovation Showcase

Unlock the future of excellence at the Annual Acme Paper Innovation Showcase April 8 at the Live Casino-Hotel in Maryland.

The Scoop: Immerse yourself in a dynamic exploration of the latest breakthroughs from the biggest manufacturers.
Up Your Game: Elevate your business with cutting-edge products, visionary ideas, and transformative solutions to make a positive impact on your business.
Don’t Miss It! This is more than an event; it's a journey into the heartbeat of innovation and value creation in the hospitality industry. RSVP today !

RAMMYS Nominations Open Two More Weeks

Nominations are officially open for the 2024 RAMMY Awards, our annual celebration of all of you who make the DMV’s food and drink scene one of the most outstanding in the world.

It’s an Honor to Be Nominated … Submit your nominations for any RAMW member in good standing (including yourself) by February 29. Finalists are announced April 8.
But So Much Better to Win : Join us for the RAMMY Awards at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center on July 21. Mark your calendars!
Milestone Award : Please submit your nominations for a RAMMY Milestone Award. The Honorary RAMMYS Milestone Award honors long standing local restaurants that are celebrating a 25th, 50th, or 75th anniversary of being in business at the same location celebrating a milestone year. Milestone nominations are submitted via the RAMMYS Nominations form . Milestones are open to any restaurant that meets the criteria; membership is not required for the category.

Reminder: Turn On Closed Captions!

The DC Mayor’s Office of Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing encourages restaurants, bars, and other businesses to turn on TV closed captions to ensure all guests can enjoy broadcasts and programs.

It’s Free : Closed Captioning is already included in your TV.

Metro wants to hear from you

Metro asks for public input on FY25 Budget including service cuts and fare hikes as funding conversations continue.

Facing an unprecedented $750 million budget shortfall in the coming year, Metro is asking the public to provide feedback on the proposed Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) Budget which includes drastic service cuts, fare increases, layoffs, and other severe cost cutting measures.

The $4.5 billion capital and operating budget proposal provides a worst-case scenario; however, Metro’s funding partners are currently working through legislation that may reduce some of the most detrimental fare and service changes proposed.

The public is encouraged to review the proposed FY25 budget and provide comments through our online survey tool, or by attending an in-person or virtual public hearing. All comments should be submitted no later than Tuesday, March 5, at 5 p.m.

Complete the survey here.

FY24 Business Funding Opportunities

New and ongoing funding opportunities from the DC Government:

Commercial Property Acquisition Fund - Opening February 2024
Creative and Open Space Modernization Tax Rebate - Open for Applications
Downtown Recovery Grant - Open for Applications
Great Streets Retail Small Business Grant - Open for Applications
Inclusive Innovation Equity Impact Fund - Open for Applications
Locally Made Manufacturing Grant - Open for Applications
Neighborhood Prosperity Fund - Open for Applications
Special Event Relief Fund - Open for Applications
Vitality Fund - Open for Applications
Walter Reed Retail Opportunity Grant - Opening February 2024
All Things Green Grant (DSLBD) - Open for Applications

Go to ObviouslyDC.com for more information on all of these programs.

Unlocking the Potential of Small Businesses Accessing Capital and Supply Chains

Monday, February 26, 2024; 10:30 a.m.

Join the US Chamber of Commerce on February 26th at 10:30 a.m. for Equality of Opportunity in Action: Unlocking the Potential of Small Businesses Accessing Capital and Supply Chains .

This virtual fireside chat with Jessica A. Milano, Chief Program Officer for the Office of Capital Access (Moderated by Tom Sullivan, VP of Small Business Policy, U.S. Chamber), will explore the pivotal role of small businesses in America, access to capital for small and underserved businesses, and how SSBCI is bolstering economic resilience through supply chain. They will also discuss how the SSBCI’s $10B allocation and the $75M technical assistance program is poised to stimulate innovation and catalyze growth.

Register Now

Upcoming DC Chamber Events

SAVE THE DATE! Small Business Summit

The DC Chamber of Commerce 2024 Small Business Summit will convene leaders from across local & federal governments and the small business industry for a deep dive into the state of the District of Columbia’s small business industry and the future vision, policy, and programs for all businesses. Join us and be a part of shaping the future of small businesses in DC and beyond! Registrations are now open and sponsorships are available. This is an opportunity you won't want to miss!

WHEN: April 30, 2024 / 7:30 am to 3:30 pm

WHERE: Walter E. Washington Convention Center

REGISTRATION IS OPEN!

Grant Opportunities

💸Sage/Boss Network “Invest in Progress” Grant

Deadline: 2/23/24

The Sage Grant provides over $1.5 million to support Black women entrepreneurs in breaking down barriers and building scalable, growth-focused businesses . Apply online

💸 February Skip Grant

Deadline: 2/26/24

Monthly grants open to all US-based entrepreneurs. Must create an account. Apply online

💸Black History Makers Grant

Deadline: 2/28/24

In celebration of Black History Month, Citi Trends is acknowledging Black entrepreneurs that are making history in their community today. Their goal is to help advance and further the businesses of Black entrepreneurs. More information .

💸 Barclay’s Small Business Grant / Amount: $2,000 - 60,000

Deadline: 2/28/24

Barclays U.S. Consumer Bank is hosting its fourth-annual Small Business Big Wins contest. This year, small business owners have the chance to win up to $60,000 to help fund their small businesses. Applicants should submit a 500-word story detailing their journey to entrepreneurship on the grant page. More information

💸Shea Moisture Grant

Black-owned businesses who are registered and based in the U.S, in operation for at least two years, with at least $25,000 in annual revenue, are eligible. More information

💸Accion Opportunity Fund

The Accion Opportunity Fund grants small business loans ranging from $5,000-$250,000, along with educational resources, coaching, and support networks in both English and Spanish. This program offers mentorship programs, microloans, and a hubzone program for small business owners’ financial needs. More information

💸Funding for Latino-Owned Businesses

Are you interested in starting or expanding your business? Our team of business coaches can provide you with one-on-one advice and training to help you manage and grow your business. Apply online

💸 Amazon Black Business Accelerator

The Amazon Black Business Accelerator is dedicated to helping build sustainable equity and growth for Black entrepreneurs by enabling their success as sellers. More information .

💸 Wish Local Empowerment Program

Wish is dedicating a $2M dollar fund to give roughly 4,000 Wish Local small business grants for black-owned biz. The selected recipients will receive between $500 - $2000. This program will only be open to Black-owned stores to help promote equality and diversity. More information .

💸 2024 Amber WomensNet's Grant

Amount: $10,000

Deadline: Rolling

Learn more here

In 1998, we gave our first Amber Grant in honor of 19-year old Amber Wigdahl, who died before fulfilling her business dreams. Today, we award three $10,000 Amber Grants each month. And three of our 36 monthly winners get an additional $25,000 Year-End Amber Grant.

Additional Funding Opportunities:

Small Business Resource Center

Webinar: Business Foundation Series: The Lean Business Plan

Thursday, February 22, 2024; 2:00 pm

SBRC One-On-One Call Session: Steps to Obtaining a Business License

Monday – Friday; By appointment between 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

SBRC One-on-One Call Session: "Talk Business After Hours"

Wednesdays by appointment between 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Submit your events and specials!

List your Adams Morgan events and business specials on our webpage for free! Click here to go to the event submission form, fill it out completely, and click on "submit event." Event submissions are reviewed to ensure the events either take place within the Adams Morgan business district or are being put on by an Adams Morgan business, and once approved should appear on the website within 48 hours.

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Sponsor one of our community events! Partner with our community while reaching some of the city's most desirable demographics. For details, contact Kristen Barden at 202-997-0783.

BOARD MEETINGS

The Board of Directors of the Adams Morgan Partnership Business Improvement District meets on the second Tuesday of every month (except August, October, and December).

Meetings are currently being held online and begin at 5pm.

Our Annual Meeting is held in March. Contact Brian Barrie for information about attending board meetings.