Home Sweet Home

May 15, 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.

Adams Morgan Movie Nights returns Tuesday!

We are thrilled to announce the return of the award-winning, six-week movie series: Adams Morgan Movie Nights ! Enjoy free movies every Tuesday evening starting May 21 through June 25 at the Marie Reed Elementary School Soccer Field at 18th Street NW and California Street NW. Movies will kick-off just after sunset at approximately 9pm. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to get a prime spot on the field which boasts tiered, amphitheater-style seating.


While we wait to watch the world’s greatest athletes compete at the upcoming Paris Summer Olympics, we’re getting in the spirit with a sports-themed movie lineup! From gold metal fan-favorites and comedies to more serious movies that capture athletes’ determination – you’re sure to love these feel-good flicks. Speaking of medals and awards, the Adams Morgan Partnership BID would like to thank the community for its support as this movie series continues to receive recognition like “Best Outdoor Movie Series” from Washington City Paper!


The official 2024 Adams Morgan Movie Nights screening schedule:

  • Tuesday, May 21: Bring It On [People’s Choice Movie]
  • Tuesday, May 28: I, Tonya
  • Tuesday, June 4: Bend It Like Beckham
  • Tuesday, June 11: Battle of the Sexes [Pride Night]
  • Tuesday, June 18: Race [Juneteenth]
  • Tuesday, June 25: Space Jam [Family Night]

Don’t forget to bring your own blanket and pick-up dinner from a neighborhood restaurant to enjoy during the film. Check out the amazing Movie Night specials from Adams Morgan businesses for enjoyment before, during, or after the movie! Also, be sure to arrive early for a free cookie from Insomnia Cookies .


A special thanks to our generous community sponsors including Wegmans , Gifted Curators , John Marshall Bank , Kristi Muldoon Stevens , and Anthony Salinas for helping to make Adams Morgan Movie Nights possible.

Due to DCPS rules, pets and alcohol are not allowed on the field.

⚠️ Attention Adams Morgan businesses: If you would like to offer a special on the Movie Nights website (food or other), please fill out this form or email Brian Barrie for more information.


Bike To Work Day is Friday!

Bike to Work Day is set for Friday, May 17 and our Adams Morgan Pit Stop will be set up in Unity Park from 7:30am - 9:30am. Registered attendees will receive a free t-shirt, complementary food and drinks, raffles, and the opportunity to mingle with neighborhood businesses including:

  • Washington Area Bicycle Association (WABA), headquartered in Adams Morgan, will be onsite for all of your biking-related questions and needs! WABA is raffling off 2 Classic Memberships.
  • Venture X will be giving out water bottles, complimentary day passes to their workspaces, and raffling a free month for a 4 person private office.
  • The LINE DC will be providing water and homemade energy bars for participants! They will be raffling off a $150 credit off of dinner at No Goodbyes.
  • Lunar Massage will provide 5-minute seated sports massages and raffling off an extra 10 minutes to any service of the winner’s choice.
  • Centerpointe will be onsite providing information about their local fitness studio!

It's not too late to register !


Adams Morgan PRIDE Storefront Contest

All businesses with storefronts within the Adams Morgan BID boundaries are invited to participate/enter the contest for a cash prize. The first place winner will receive a $1,000 cash prize, the second place winner will receive a $500 cash prize, and the third place winner will receive a $250 cash prize. Decorations must be Pride-themed and viewable from the sidewalk (exterior decorations). You are welcome to add decorations to the inside of your business as well (bonus points!). Our hope is to come together as a community to make Adams Morgan as festive as possible, increase neighborhood foot traffic during Pride celebrations, and receive increased media attention. Below outlines important contest dates:

  • Deadline to enter your business in the contest: Friday, May 31
  • Decorations installed by: Wednesday, June 5
  • Judging: Thursday, June 6 at 2pm (the panel of local judges will consist of local community members, media personalities, and members of the LGBTQ+ community)
  • Online Voting: Noon on Thursday, June 6 - Midnight, Monday, June 10 (online voting is roughly equivalent to a single in-person judge)
  • Winners will be announced on Tuesday, June 11

Please email Brian Barrie with any questions and don’t forget to fill out the form if you wish to participate!


Adams Morgan in the News

Vote now for the Washington City Paper's Best of DC 2024

The public's support means the world to your favorite Adams Morgan businesses and voting for them helps get the word out to the whole DMV about how great they are. Businesses need your support now more than ever and voting for them is a quick, easy, and free way to show your support.

And while you're at it, don't forget to vote for your favorite DC BID (that's us )! If you feel our organization and events deserve it, please consider voting for:

  • Best BID/Main Street -- Adams Morgan Partnership BID
  • Best Film Festival -- Adams Morgan Movie Nights
  • Best Music Festival -- Adams Morgan PorchFest
  • Best Neighborhood Music Series -- AdMo Vibe
  • Best Place to Experience Local Music -- Adams Morgan



The Adams Morgan Farmers Market returns to Unity Park on Saturday June 1!

Remie's Flowers and Plants will be open this Saturday.

You're invited to Licking Creek Bend's Annual Farm Visit Day

Sunday, June 2, 2024, 11am

Spend the day at the LICKING CREEK BEND FARM, meet their amazing staff, tour the farm and learn how they grow without pesticides, see the equipment, plant, harvest, bring to share a veggie pot luck, swim in the creek (bring towels), and enjoy a relaxing day in the country with THE UKULECTIC UKULELE ORCHESTRA.


Please RSVP by email and contact us for the best directions – info@lickingcreekbendfarm.com


About 2 hours from the DC/MD area.(leave by 9:00am)

928 Donahoe Lane, Needmore, PA 17238.717 573-4527


There's still time to join the CSA. Email for information.


Updates from RAMW

DC Police Chief Town Hall June 18

Join us for an RAMW online town hall with Chief Pamela Smith of the DC Metropolitan Police Department at 11:30 am on June 18.

  • Recap: This is Chief Smith’s second town hall with RAMW members. Hear directly from the District’s head law enforcement officer and have your questions answered.
  • On the Agenda: Public safety, countering gun violence, and building a strong relationship between law enforcement and the hospitality community.
  • Be There: Register now and send your questions ahead of time to Che .

Nightlife Council Forum Next Week

The DC Nightlife Council invites you to an Operations and Economic Forum from 12:30 to 2:30 pm on May 22 at the Studio Theatre .

  • Delve Deeper: With the busy summer season approaching, this forum focuses on the recent uptick in crime, clarifies newly passed regulations, and discusses updates and new processes to better serve and protect the nightlife industry.
  • Register Now: RSVP by Friday .

Don’t Miss the Inaugural RAMMYS Honors

RAMW is debuting something new this year: The RAMMYS Honors , a special celebration on June 18 at The Watergate Hotel.

  • What Are the RAMMYS Honors? Held just four weeks before the RAMMYS Gala, we’ll recognize restaurant milestone honorees, Allied Member of the Year, and Duke Zeibert Capital Achievement Award recipient.
  • Who Are the Milestone Honorees? Congratulations to Black’s Bar & Kitchen, Equinox on 19th, KAZ Sushi Bistro, Marcel’s, and Passage to India, who are all celebrating 25 years of business. Also to be honored is The Dubliner, which marks 50 years of pouring pints on Capitol Hill.
  • Who Are Finalists for Allied Member of the Year? We couldn’t do what we love to do without them: Carlos Rosario International Public Charter School, Ecolab, Harmony Group, Inc., Keany Produce & Gourmet, and Preferred Insurance Services, Inc.
  • Who’s the Duke Zeibert Recipient? A familiar face to the RAMW family, Kathy Hollinger, CEO of Greater Washington Partnership, will be recognized for her work elevating the Washington area foodservice community and its restaurants.
  • Don’t Miss This First-Time Event! Author, democratic strategist, and co-host of MSNBC’s The Weekend Symone Sanders Townsend emcees the evening. Tickets are $150 , or purchase a reserved table for eight for $2,500. A limited number of Honors sponsorships are also still available.

Send Your Stories for AAPI Heritage Month

In celebration of May’s Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, RAMW is sharing stories and photos highlighting the achievements of our AAPI Chefs, Restaurateurs, and restaurant workers. Send your stories to Keiristin . Also please tag us @ramwdc on social media.


Upload Anti-Harassment Policies, Certify Trainings by May 31

Reminder: Submit your sexual anti-harassment policies, certify your team is trained, and report any claims by the end of the month.

  • Recap: These requirements only apply to employers who claim the tip credit for at least one worker.
  • What to Know: Upload your anti-harassment policy, certify you’ve conducted trainings, and learn more on the District’s Office of Human Rights’ website . Learn more on the attached flier.

NGLCC-Grubhub Grants Close Tuesday

The National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce and Grubhub are offering restaurant grants from $5,000 to $25,000.

  • Who Can Apply? Grants are open to any LGBTQ+-owned or LGBTQ+-ally owned restaurant, bar, or cafe.
  • Apply Now: Applications close May 21 .


Business License Update from DLCP

DLCP has issued important updates regarding the renewal process for businesses.

Your My DC Business Center Dashboard will display the number of licenses eligible for renewal. They will also send renewal notifications every 30 days from the day your license becomes eligible for renewal until its expiration date, with a final notice sent seven (7) days before expiration. Please continue to monitor your inbox for updates specific to your account.


DC Small Business Census

This week DMPED announced the launch of the 2024 DC Small Business Census, an effort that District government will be undertaking between May and the end of the summer 2024. This census will enable District government to better understand who makes up our small business community and ensure that DC is a place where small business owners of any background can thrive. Email DCSmallBusinessCensus@bbcresearch.com with any questions.


Jubilee's Justice Housing Breakfast is Fast Approaching!

RSVP now for the annual Jubilee Housing Justice Housing Breakfast! There is no cost to attend, but hopefully guests will be inspired by what they learn to contribute or get involved.

Wednesday, June 12, 2024; 7:30 am – 9:30 am

Willard Intercontinental Hotel

1401 Pennsylvania Avenue NW

This is a critical time for Jubilee Housing. They are opening four new buildings over the next two years and are raising funds to deepen their programs and cover more residents and families. Their goals are to break boundaries, bring people back into the fold, and re-set the system so more people can live in compassionate communities and have the opportunities they need to thrive.


Please RSVP. Space is limited.

Register Here


Save the Date: Vision Forward Fundraiser, June 26

The Platform of Hope's (POH) Vision Forward Fundraiser will be held at beloved Adams Morgan staple, The Diner, marking their return to this classic venue– both indoors and out on the patio and streetery! Guests will be treated to a delicious comfort-food-buffet (including ice cream brownie sundae dessert) and open bar, with a program including tributes, toasts and a signature POH piñata. As always, this will be a fun, uplifting summer evening where 100% of proceeds go to support our work with families.


In addition, the online auction will feature items and gift cards from area businesses-- register to bid on awesome dining, concerts, experiences and more!

Click here for more information about the event, the auction, and how to participate/donate.


Capital AI: Innovating for a Smarter DC

May 22 2024; 9:00 am - 1:00 pm

This event serves as an educational and promotional platform for Artificial Intelligence (AI), tailored to engage a lay audience. The tentative topics for discussion encompass various aspects of AI’s impact and potential benefits across different sectors and industries. These topics include the economic, social, educational, workforce, and civil-service implications of AI adoption.


The event aims to explore AI’s role in various sectors such as healthcare, financial services, communications, technology, and education, while also focusing on its significance for the local economy, workforce, government, and major industries. Additionally, discussions will delve into the current and planned usage of AI by companies in different industries and how small- and medium-sized businesses in the DC area can effectively leverage AI technologies.

Register here



Harness Your Branding Power with Canva

Join CNHED on Thursday, May 30, from 1 pm to 2:30 pm, for an exclusive in-person workshop tailored for startup and micro small business owners seeking to elevate their brand presence simply but effectively. Harness the power of creating your business's Brand Kit on CANVA Pro to craft a distinctive and cohesive brand identity that resonates with your audience, sets your business apart, and provides a path for seamless content generation that drives results. This amazing workshop is hosted by Washington Digital Media and ELEVATE alum.

Click here for more info and to register.


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

Week of May 13

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

  • Monday, May 13 – Friday, May 17: Throughout next week, we will also continue with roadway restoration activities at this location

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

DoorDash Offers $5,000 Accelerator for Local Restaurants

DoorDash is accepting applications for their accelerator program that helps restaurants identify ways to grow their business.  This year, food trucks, food stalls, and community kitchen-based businesses are encouraged to apply, in addition to restaurants operating out of brick-and-mortar locations.


To apply, applicants must plan to introduce a new line of revenue to their business, have been in business for more than two years with three locations or less, and employ fewer than 50 people per location. Washington, D.C. area applicants must be located in Washington, D.C., Fairfax County, Virginia, and Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties in Maryland.

  • Learn More: The program also helps you find money for your restaurant.
  • Build More Connections: The program helps you better connect your restaurants to your community.

Since its launch, the Accelerator for Local Restaurants has helped more than 1,000 entrepreneurs learn the skills they need to help their small businesses grow. Click here for more info and to apply.


Your chance at $20k from Venmo

May is Small Business Month, and Venmo is celebrating with opportunities to help you grow your business, learn, and connect with your community.


That means the Small Business Grant Program is back, giving you a chance at $20,000 in funding for your business. Apply by May 31, 2024—all you need is your business profile to get started.

Click here for more info and to apply.


FY24 Business Funding Opportunities

New and ongoing funding opportunities from the DC Government:

  • Creative and Open Space Modernization Tax Rebate - Open for Applications
  • Downtown Recovery 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
  • All Things Green Grant (DSLBD) - Open for Applications

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


Grant Opportunities

💸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.

Meet the DC Small Business Development Center (SBDC)

Thursday, May 16 at 4 pm

Meet the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Howard University ! The DC SBDC is a federally funded resource center that businesses can use for free throughout their lifecycle for one-on-one counseling, ongoing training, and access to capital support.

Click here for more info and to register.


Small Business Resource Center

DC APEX Accelerators help businesses

DC APEX Accelerator offers personalized business counseling and competitive insights for navigating the government contracting process successfully.

If you already have experience working on government contracts and are looking for help to secure other contracts, we are available to help. At the DC APEX Accelerator, businesses get help with strategies to pursue state, local, and federal government contracts.


2nd SESSION General Business License Bootcamp - MHCDO

Thursday, May 16, 2024; 10am

Register: https://dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events/65297

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

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

Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events


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

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

Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events

Business Diagnostic Check - In Person Wednesday’s

Wednesdays by appointment between 10:00 am - 3:00 pm

Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events



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 as well as in-person (hybrid) and begin at 5pm.

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

Tag us on social media!

© Adams Morgan Partnership