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March 3, 2017

Apply or Nominate a Business to join Inner City Capital Connections

In December 2016, ICIC and Catholic University’s Busch School of Business announced that they will bring the ICCC program to Washington, D.C. for the first time , and also pioneer a new model that incorporates student participation. The partnership, which includes a 4-year commitment from Catholic University, is part of a project the university has been incubating to develop enterprise solutions to poverty. Connecting small business owners with business students will bring a new dimension to ICCC while expanding its impact in the Washington D.C. community.

Read more about ICCC’s regional and national impact in the 2016 Impact Report .

Businesses that grow sustainably strengthen their communities.

By ensuring that its alumni succeed, ICCC promotes growth, job creation and capital acquisition in inner-city businesses and the neighborhoods where they operate.

What is inner city capital connections (ICCC)?

ICCC is an executive education and training program with the goal of promoting economic prosperity in underserved communities.

  • It helps established urban small businesses create and maintain sustainable growth and, in turn, create more good jobs where they are needed most.
  • It is the country’s only program that educates inner city businesses about different forms of capital and then connects them with potential capital providers.

Nominate

Your thoughtful and timely nominations help us reach more businesses and more communities around the country. Learn more about the nomination process in the ICCC Nominator Kit . Nominations must be submitted at least 5 weeks prior to the opening seminar in the region you are nominating for. Check the 2017 schedule of opening seminars here.

Nominate for the 2017 ICCC program

Apply

Small business is a powerful force in our economy. Our research found that the addition of just over one new job per small business could eliminate urban unemployment! Join other inner-city businesses on the path to long-term growth so that you can remain a source of job creation and strength for your community.

Applications for the DC program are due by March 31.

Apply for the 2017 ICCC program

Eligibility

A business must meet all of the following criteria in order to be eligible for participation in ICCC*:

  • Be an independent for-profit or not-for-profit corporation, partnership or proprietorship
  • Meet one of the following requirements:
    • Have its headquarters or more than 51% of its physical operations located in an economically distressed area
    • Have more than 40% of employees residing in an economically distressed area
  • Have been in operation for two years or more. ICCC does not accept start-up companies.

For questions regarding the nomination process or eligibility, please contact ICCC at 617-238-3019 or iccc@icic.org

*On a case-by-case basis, ICCC will consider businesses that do not meet all of the specified criteria on the recommendation of a nominator.

The program is offered at no cost to all accepted participants.

Participants are responsible for travel and lodging related to the in-person seminar and culminating conference.

WRAP’s 2017 St. Patrick’s Day SoberRide campaign is scheduled to run from 4:00 p.m. Friday, March 17th (St. Patrick’s Day) until 4:00 a.m. Saturday, March 18, 2017.

WRAP’s SoberRide program is one of the nation’s most successful free safe rides programs for would-be impaired drivers. However, prevention is essential for keeping our highways safe during high-risk holidays. If your business needs an alcohol awareness presentation, WRAP’s Safe And Vital Employees (SAVE) program is available free of cost to you. This 45-minute, customized presentation will inform employees about the physical, economic and legal consequences of impaired driving.

Visit www.soberride.com for additional details.

Please be safe during this holiday.

AMPBID will be distributing SoberRide cards and posters the week of St. Patrick's Day. If you wish to recieve extra cards or posters or would like to get them early, please contact Brian Barrie at 202-536-9515

Washington City Paper's Best of DC Poll is live

Adams Morgan did very well in last year's poll snagging a number of the top spots, but the last 12 months have brought a lot more of DC's best stuff to our neighborhood, so we're expecting to do even better in 2017.

Click Here to vote for all of your favorite things in Adams Morgan

Save the Date: Rock 'n' Roll Marathon DC
is scheduled for March 11, 2017

Click Here for more information on road closures and for other information

On Saturday, March 11, the marathon will come through Adams Morgan,
traveling up Calvert Street from the Ellington Bridge and continuing on Adams Mill Rd.
until it turns left onto Columbia Rd. and then continues east on Columbia Rd. onto Harvard Rd.

Those sections of road will be closed on that day from approximately 6:30 am until noon.
Plan accordingly.

More News

Mayor Approves New Alcohol Bill
Changes to the District's alcohol laws are in the works.

On Feb. 15, Mayor Muriel Bowser approved the Omnibus Alcoholic Beverage Regulation Amendment of 2016 (A21-0678), which makes several changes to the law regarding the sale, transportation, and regulation of alcohol in the District. The legislation must now undergo a 30-day Congressional review period.

Notable items in the bill include a ban on the sale of powdered alcohol in the District. The product is already illegal in several states across the country. The law will also institute a $1,000 fine for any person that violates the ban.

Other provisions of the bill will update laws already on the books, including expanding the types of containers businesses can use. Under the legislation, grocery stores will be able to sell wine in growlers for the first time. Establishments like restaurants and taverns that brew beer—known as brew pubs—will be able to sell the beer they manufacture in cans, kegs, bottles and other sealed containers. Currently, brew pubs are only permitted to sell beer in growlers for customers to take home. Additionally, the bill will allow distilleries and wineries to sell their products in cans and kegs instead of only barrels and bottles.

Another item for distilleries does away with a requirement that cocktails served by the manufacturer primarily contain the distiller's spirits over any other brand. As a result, a distillery will be able to freely mix cocktails with its brand of spirits as well as other brands as long as they have the proper license to do so.

The legislation also creates a new bed and breakfast license that is the first of its kind in the District. The license permits an inn to serve alcohol to registered guests, similar to hotels.

Complete details of the legislaton can be reviewed online . Stay tuned for updates from the Alcoholic Beverage Regulation Administration on the legislation's implementation following its 30-day Congressional review.

Participate in Congresswoman Norton's  Small Business Fair

On June 15, 2017, Congresswoman Norton will host her Small Business Fair from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Washington Convention Center (801 Mount Vernon Place, NW) for residents and small businesses in the District of Columbia.

Congresswoman Norton would like to invite local businesses to participate in the Exhibition Hall portion of her program from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The Resource Hall will allow participants to learn more about the services you provide.

If you would like to sign up as an exhibitor, RSVP here .

SafeTrack Surge #13: Continuous Single Tracking, Blue/Yellow Line, March 4-April 9, 2017

Beginning at 7:00 a.m. this Saturday, March 4 until closing, Sunday, April 9, Blue and Yellow Line trains will continuously single track between Braddock Rd and Huntington/Van Dorn St stations.

Surge #13 will be completed in two phases. Highlights include:

  • No Yellow Rush + trains (Franconia-Springfield to Greenbelt weekend rush) will operate during the entire Surge #13.
  • From March 4-April 1 weekdays, Blue and Yellow Line trains will operate every 24 minutes. Additional Yellow Line trains will operate between Reagan National Airport and Mt Vernon Sq. All Yellow Line riders south of Reagan National Airport and all Blue Line riders should consider alternate travel options.

Single track zone: Braddock Rd-Huntington/Van Dorn St

  • From April 2-9 weekdays, Yellow Line trains will operate every 24 minutes. Blue Line will return to normal and operate every 12 minutes. All Yellow Line riders should consider alternate travel options.

Single track zone: King St-Huntington

  • Weekend train frequencies may change to coordinate with other planned track work on the Metrorail system. Weekend service information is posted in the Alerts & Advisories section of Metro’s website.

**NOTE** Blue and Yellow Line trains serving stations south of National Airport, especially during rush hour, may be extremely crowded. Customers at those stations should expect delays due to the severe service reductions. Metro riders who have the ability to do so should consider alternate travel options and avoid traveling during rush hour if possible. For more information about upcoming SafeTrack Safety Surges, and how it may impact you and your organization, please visit wmata.com/safetrack and view the SafeTrack plan.

Weekend Track Work, March 4-5, 2017

Reconstruction of the Metrorail system will continue over this weekend. More information about this weekend’s track work can be found at wmata.com.

Silver Spring-Forest Glen Shutdown
7:00 a.m. Saturday, March 4 – closing, Sunday, March 5

  • · Free shuttle buses will replace train service between Silver Spring and Forest Glen. Please add 10 minutes of travel time through this zone.
  • · The Red Line will operate every 15 minutes between Glenmont and Forest Glen and every 10 minutes between Silver Spring and Shady Grove.

Smithsonian-Federal Center SW Shutdown
7:00 a.m. Saturday, March 4 – closing, Sunday, March 5

  • L’Enfant Plaza lower level platform (Blue/Orange/Silver) will be closed.
  • Free shuttle buses will replace trains between Smithsonian and Federal Center SW with an intermittent stop at L’Enfant Plaza. Please add 10 minutes of travel time for each station stop.
  • Orange Line will operate every 24 minutes between Vienna – Smithsonian and every 15 minutes between Federal Center SW - New Carrollton
  • Blue Line will operate every 24 minutes in two segments between Franconia-Springfield – Smithsonian and every 15 minutes between Federal Center SW – Largo Town Center
  • Silver Line will operate every 15 minutes between Wiehle-Reston East & Ballston only. Customers traveling to/from other stations should use Orange and/or Blue Lines to complete their trip. At Ballston, transfer between Silver and Orange line trains on the same platform.

Upcoming this month from DCRA's Small Business Resource Center

Navigating Government Contracting with DCPTAC

Date : Thursday, March 9, 2017
Time : 1:00 pm- 2:30 pm
Location : DCRA – 1100 4th Street SW, 4th Floor (Room E-4302), Washington, D.C. 20024
To Register : http://dcbiz.ecenterdirect.com/events/43350

The District of Columbia Procurement Technical Assistance Center (DC PTAC) is a program within the Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD). DC PTAC offers confidential, personalized, one on one business counseling and competitive insights for navigating the government contracting process successfully. Whether you already have experience working on government contracts, or are looking for help to win your first one, we are available to help. At the DC PTAC, businesses can get assistance with developing strategies to pursue state, local and federal government contracts. We help you navigate the procurement process more confidently and efficiently. Our assistance is tailored to meet your specific goals in areas such as:

  • Contract research
  • Bid matching
  • Marketing plans
  • Subcontracting and Teaming
  • Proposal preparation
  • GSA schedules
  • Certifications (HubZone, 8(a), VA CVE, WOSB)
  • Post contract award counseling

How to Open a Small Business by Navigating through DCRA’s Regulatory Process

Date : Wednesday, March 15, 2017

Time : 9:00 am – 10:30 am

Location : DCRA – 1100 4th Street SW, 2nd Floor (Room E-200), Washington, D.C. 20024

To Register : http://dcbiz.ecenterdirect.com/events/43569

If you are interested in learning How to Open a Small Business by Navigating through DCRA's Regulatory Process then this session is for you. During this event the SBRC will be featuring DCRA's subject experts from:

  • Business Licensing Division
  • Corporations Division
  • Occupational and Professional Licensing Division
  • Permits and Inspections Division
  • Weights and Measures Division
  • Zoning Division

Understanding Your Rights Seminar for Landlords

Date : Thursday, March 16, 2017

Time : 9:00 am – 11:00 am

Location : DCRA – 1100 4th Street SW, 4th Floor (Room E-4302), Washington, D.C. 20024

To Register : http://dcbiz.ecenterdirect.com/events/43469

The D.C. Bar Pro Bono Center is partnering with the D.C. Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA) Small Business Resource Center to offer monthly informational sessions to small landlords renting residential property in the District of Columbia. The sessions will provide general information on the eviction process, landlord tenant court procedures, and regulatory requirements.

Senior Entrepreneurship Program

Date : Thursday, March 16, 2017
Time : 10:15 am – 11:45 am
Location : Washington Senior Center – 3001 Alabama Avenue SE, Washington, D.C. 20002
To Register : http://dcbiz.ecenterdirect.com/events/42989

The Department of Consumer and Regulatory (DCRA) Small Business Resource Center (SBRC) is collaborating with the D C Office of Aging (DCOA) to host its Senior Day Program for residents 60 years of age and older.
If you are interested in starting a new business or need information on sustaining an existing business, this program is for you? The program is designed to provide information on starting new and existing businesses. During this these sessions DCRA’s staff will be on hand to provide the regulatory process of the following:

  • Corporate Registration
  • Business Licensing
  • Vending & Events
  • Farmer Markets
  • Q&A

Learn the Process of Starting a Business at the DC Public Library

Date : Tuesday, March 21, 2017
Time : 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Location : Southwest Neighborhood Library – 900 Wesley Place SW, Washington, D.C. 20024
To Register : http://dcbiz.ecenterdirect.com/events/43012

During these FREE monthly sessions, the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA) will partner with District government agencies to educate customers on how to start a new business in the District of Columbia. The following topics will be discussed:

  • Business Licensing
  • Corporate registration
  • Certificates of Occupancy (C of O)
  • Home Occupancy Permits (HOP)
  • Grant Opportunities
  • Vending
  • Farmer markets
  • Certified Business Enterprises (CBE)


A Comprehensive Guide for Small Business Planning

Date : Thursday, March 23, 2017

Time : 2:00 pm – 4:30 pm

Location : DCRA – 1100 4th Street SW, 4th Floor (Room E-4302), Washington, D.C. 20024

To Register : http://dcbiz.ecenterdirect.com/events/43570

Why develop a business plan? The purpose for which you write a business plan is almost as important as the content of the plan itself. Writing a well-thought-out and organized business plan dramatically increases your odds of succeeding as an entrepreneur. This workshop covers the basics of business planning and why it’s important for business success. Topics include starting-up a success business, the important linkages between the marketing, sales, and your financial projections, and gaining a competitive advantage.

3 Ways to Make Carpooling Great for Your Employees

Your workplace depends on employees who are healthy and productive. The stress of unpredictable traffic and congested roads everyday hinders an employee's ability to arrive to work on time and with a clear mind.


Imagine if 30% to 40% of your employees carpooled to work? Encouraging employees to carpool is a great way to save them from a stressful commute, lower your organization's parking costs, and help your employees save money on their commuting expenses.

Read on to learn three strategies you can utilize to get your employees carpooling to work today!


Promote FREE Ride Matching by Commuter Connections
Your employees are really going to love you for sharing this FREE resource! Commuter Connections has a FREE ride matching service to help those looking for a carpool arrangement. The ride matching system is completely free, and employees will be able to share commuting expenses, as well as have the opportunity to take advantage of HOV lanes.


Create and Provide Low-Cost Incentives to Drive Carpool Participation
Friendly competition among colleagues is always fun to get folks motivated to try carpooling and to lead a more active lifestyle. Create an internal commuter challenge that encourages employees to participate in carpooling with their colleagues. Have the challenge run on a monthly basis and reward them with annual Capital Bikeshare Memberships or restaurant gift card for lunch.


Provide Parking Benefits to Carpool Commuters
Very often employees are more inclined to try carpooling if they are provided a tangible cost-saving incentive. If you can, offer priority parking or discounted parking rates to carpool commuters for choosing a commute option that reduces traffic.

If you would like assistance in setting up carpool matches within your office, contact goDCgo Employer Services team for a complimentary consultation.
Meet with Employer Services Today!


New goDCgo Website Coming Soon!

Have you heard? The goDCgo website is getting a complete facelift! That means more opportunities to share information about sustainable transportation with your employees and learn the best ways to become a commute-friendly workplace.


New features include a robust transit map and trip planner and even more resources to help you comply with—and go above and beyond—the DC Commuter Benefits Law. Stay tuned for a launch notice—we’ll be looking for your feedback!

Attend ABRA Orientation Training March 30, 2017

New and existing ABC licensees are invited to attend ABRA’s Orientation Training from 2-4 p.m. on Thursday, March 30, 2017 to learn about:

  • District ABC laws and regulations (including recent changes to the law),
  • Tips for working effectively with the community,
  • Settlement Agreements,
  • Expectations of licensees,
  • Best practices, and
  • Noise abatement and sound management.

Contact ABRA Community Resource Officer Sarah Fashbaugh by Friday, March 24, 2017 to register: (202) 397-3971

Attendance for this class is strongly recommended for new license holders. Training is free of charge. Requests for interpreters may be made; however, they must be submitted by the registration deadline.

Training Location

2000 14th St., NW
Suite 400 South, 4th Floor
Washington, DC 20009

- www.abra.dc.gov -

Save the Date: GWHCC Annual Business Expo, April 17

From the Greater Washington Hispanic Chamber of Commerce:

Join us at our biggest event of the year and connect with the region’s leading minority-owned businesses. Last year, we brought together 1,880 attendees, 172 exhibitors, and 97 Sponsors and Partners. This year will be even bigger and better, so mark your calendars!

Some of Our Expo Sponsors

Thank you to our presenting sponsors and partners: Gelberg Signs, Erie Insurance, DC Health Link, Events DC, DHCD and MOLA.

How You Can Become a Sponsor

Would you like to become a sponsor? Please contact Alma Alfaro-Laska at aalfaro-laska@gwhcc.org .

If any Adams Morgan business wants to have a booth, please contact Kristen Barden (202) 997-0783 and AMPBID will pay the registration fee.

Help Us Help You With Social Media

Being successful on social media is all about getting your message in front of as many eyeballs as possible, and the best way to do that is to have your posts shared by others to reach people who have yet to find you on their own. Please follow our AMPBID social media accounts (below) and if you tag us in your Adams Morgan specific posts, we'll do our best to like and retweet them to our followers. Contact Brian (bbarrie@adamsmorganonline.org) for more info.

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