February 7
, 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.
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February AMPBID Board Meeting
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The next board meeting of the Adams Morgan Partnership Business Improvement District (AMPBID) will be on
Tuesday, February 13 at 5pm
via Zoom. In addition to regular business the Nominations Committee will present the slate of candidates for the annual board elections (more info below)
.
Click here
to attend the board meeting via Zoom on Tuesday, February 13 at 5pm.
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Join the Board of Directors
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The Adams Morgan Partnership BID (AMPBID) annual meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 12.
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 election will be for 3 Property Owner seats and 3 Business Owner seats.
Ballots for the election will be sent in mid-February after the Nominating Committee presents their slate of candidates.
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Valentine’s Day Storefront Decorating Contest
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We have 18 Adams Morgan businesses competing for the
Best Storefront Design
prizes this year. Go to
ADMODC.org/valentines
for a complete list and map of all the participating businesses. This year instead of awarding 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place prizes, we'll be awarding two first place prizes of $500 to the winner in the categories of
Food & Beverage
and
Retail and Other Services.
Our panel of judges will be visiting the businesses on Friday afternoon, but the public is invited to vote online, also starting on Friday. Go to
ADMODC.org/valentines
for all the details.
Judging:
Friday, February 9, 2024
Online voting:
February 9-13
Winners announced:
Wednesday, February 14, 2024
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Adams Morgan Date Nights returns!
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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!
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Black History Month Business Spotlight: William Lawrence, Owner, Bill Lawrence Salon
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In celebration of Black History Month, we are highlighting a few of our Black-owned businesses and community leaders in Adams Morgan! Please show your support this month and beyond. Get to know William Lawrence of Bill Lawrence Salon in this Business Spotlight Q&A.
Adams Morgan Partnership BID:
What makes your business unique? Tell us more about Bill Lawrence Salon.
William:
Attention to detail and great customer service. At Bill Lawrence Salon we pride ourselves in helping our clients create looks that compliment them. We like for our clients to feel like they are a part of our family.
AMPBID:
Tell us about a defining moment in your professional and/or personal life. Did you have an ah-ha moment that inspired you?
William:
Early on in my career I was working at a salon. I had a moment of realization there that our community needed a space where they could receive quality hair care while also receiving great customer service. That is what led me to create the environment we still have at Bill Lawrence Salon.
AMPBID:
What is the best career advice you’ve received? What is your favorite piece of advice to give?
William:
Respect your craft and work hard. Everything else will fall in place.
AMPBID:
What’s your favorite part about the Adams Morgan community and why?
William:
What I value most about the Adams Morgan community is its diversity. You can meet people of all walks of life in this area and always find something to bond over.
AMPBID:
What’s something your customers may not know about you and/or your business that might surprise them?
William:
I don’t think that many of our clients know that in May we will have been serving the Adams Morgan neighborhood and Washington DC for 33 years.
AMPBID:
That’s amazing – congratulations! Your salon has been a staple in the Adams Morgan community over the years. It’s a pleasure to have you in the neighborhood!
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?
William:
Unfortunately, they are no longer in the community but Shelton Williams was a salon owner on Columbia Road many years ago. He was one of my mentors. He is still going strong in the Silver Spring area.
Bill Lawrence Salon is located at 2120 18 St NW, Washington, DC 20009. [Bill Lawrence Salon is open Monday -Friday 9:00 am - 3:00 pm. Learn more at www.vagaro.com/billlawrencesalon. They can be followed on Instagram at @billlawrence_salon.
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Coffee Hour: Coffee & Conversation with the AMPBID
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Starting
Thursday, February 15th from 8:30-10am
and continuing every third Thursday of each month, the Adams Morgan Partnership BID invites our business community to Coffee Hour! This is a free, informal event that offers businesses an opportunity to chat with BID staff, ask questions, learn about community news, introduce yourself, connect with neighbors, and more. This monthly in-person event will take place at Venture X located at 1763 Columbia Road NW. Your
RSVP
is requested for planning purposes, although not required. Walk-ins are welcome.
We look forward to seeing you at our first Coffee Hour!
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Alert: Ann Hughes Hargrove Park is closed for renovation
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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.
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Secure DC, Pause on Cashless Retailers Moves Ahead
DC Council yesterday approved at first reading the Secure DC Act, an extensive package of public safety proposals to counter District crime.
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What’s in the Bill:
Dozens of measures are in the
100+ page legislation
, including: New gun penalties and offenses for retail theft; Increased carjacking penalties; Reinstating MPD’s ability to declare drug-free zones; Expanded security camera and glass-breaker sensors rebates; Culinary and hospitality training at DC jail for soon-to-be returning citizens
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What Else:
At the urging of RAMW and dozens of operators, included is a pause until January 2025 on the
Cashless Retailers Prohibition Act
, which requires all District businesses to accept cash payments.
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What’s Next:
Like all DC bills, councilmembers will vote twice on the proposal before sending it to the mayor’s desk. Speaking of second readings …
Dram Shop Reform Heads to Second Reading
DC Council also gave an initial nod for
B25-0056
, the Restaurant Revitalization and Dram Shop Clarification Act.
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Big Picture:
The legislation adds key definitions and standards to dram shop law to lower the exorbitant cost of the District’s liquor liability insurance, which we all know is some of the most expensive in the US. The bill would also: Allow restaurants and bars to register up to five ABC managers for $390 a year; Make permanent the current temporary third party delivery regulations, commission a study of delivery drivers’ working conditions, and require restaurants to provide drivers with restroom access; Exclude service charges from percentage rents in cases when it’s unclear; Establish a public education campaign
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Thanks Go To:
Our partners at the
DC Nightlife Council
, Councilmembers Brooke Pinto and Christina Henderson, who introduced the legislation, and Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie, who chairs the Committee on Business and Economic Development.
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Thanks Also Go To: YOU.
Dozens of RAMW members have contributed to this effort at public hearings, Coffee with Your Councilmember meetings, one-on-one conversations, and in emails, phone calls, and text messages to their councilmember.
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Next Steps:
Council will take their second vote either February 20 or March 6, when they’re also expected to consider proposals to end the tip credit in July 2025, better protect operators from frivolous service charge lawsuits, and how service charges are classified. Stay tuned for how you can add your support.
House Approves Restaurant Tax Deductions
The House of Representatives last week passed by a vote of 357 to 70 legislation to help restaurants afford new investments, renovations, and equipment purchases.
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ICYMI:
The Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act (HR 7024) also accelerates bonus depreciation for equipment and vehicles, which particularly helps medium and small sized restaurants with cash flow.
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What They’re Saying:
“It’s rare to get 357 House members to agree on anything, so this was a remarkable bit of bipartisanship, spurred on by grassroots engagement that includes our industry,” wrote Sean Kennedy at the National Restaurant Association.
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What’s Next:
The bill faces an uphill climb in the Senate, you can
voice your support here
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Upload Anti-Harassment Policies, Certify Trainings by May 31
Submit your sexual anti-harassment policies, certify your team is trained, and report any 2023 claims for 2023 by May 31.
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Recap:
The requirements apply to employers who claim the tip credit for at least one employee.
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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
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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.
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The Scoop:
Immerse yourself in a dynamic exploration of the latest breakthroughs from the biggest manufacturers.
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Up Your Game:
Elevate your business with cutting-edge products, visionary ideas, and transformative solutions to make a positive impact on your business.
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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 Still Open
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.
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It’s an Honor to Be Nominated
…
Submit your nominations
for any RAMW member in good standing (including yourself) by February 29th. Finalists are announced April 8.
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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!
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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.
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FY24 Business Funding Opportunities
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New and ongoing funding opportunities from the DC Government:
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Commercial Property Acquisition Fund
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Opening February 2024
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Creative and Open Space Modernization Tax Rebate
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Open for Applications
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Downtown Recovery Grant
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Open for Applications
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Great Streets Retail Small Business Grant
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Open for Applications
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Inclusive Innovation Equity Impact Fund
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Open for Applications
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Locally Made Manufacturing Grant
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Open for Applications
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Neighborhood Prosperity Fund
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Open for Applications
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Special Event Relief Fund
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Open for Applications
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Vitality Fund
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Open for Applications
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Walter Reed Retail Opportunity Grant
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Opening February 2024
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All Things Green Grant (DSLBD)
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Open for Applications
Go to
ObviouslyDC.com
for more information on all of these programs.
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Upcoming DC Chamber Events
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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!
A Virtual Small Business Town Hall: Medicaid Unwinding and What it Means for Your Business and Employees
In partnership with DC Health Link, we will be hosting a virtual town hall to discuss Medicaid coverage and how it impacts your business and employees. If your employees have lost or will lose coverage through Medicaid, they can enroll in private health insurance through DC Health Link. Join our town hall to learn more and ask questions! Please register via the link below.
WHEN:
February 12, 2024 – 4 p.m.
WHERE:
Virtual! --
Register Here!
Employer Advocacy Seminar: Let's Dive Into the World of Unemployment Insurance!
Let’s dive into the world of unemployment insurance! As an employer, it’s crucial to know the ins and outs of this program to meet requirements and safeguard your rights. Join our seminar for a quick overview on how you can learn more.
WHEN:
February 13, 2024 – 12 p.m. - 1 p.m.
WHERE:
Virtual! --
Register Here!
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DOB In-Person Customer Service Status Update
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As part of Phase 2 of their building’s modernization, construction by the Department of General Services (DGS) will begin on the 2nd floor on Thursday, February 8, 2024 at DOB headquarters at 1100 4th Street SW. All affected Walk-In Center staff and managers will move to assigned temporary space effective February 8.
Beginning February 8, all of DOB's public-facing in-person service will be temporarily conducted in shared space with Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP) staff on the other side of the second floor. DOB's in-person service hours will remain unchanged, but may be adjusted based on space constraints and DOB and DLCP's operating needs
You may always contact DOB via email at
dob@dc.gov
, through the
online inquiry form
or during normal business hours using the live chat available on
dob.dc.gov
. You can also reach us by phone at 202.671.3500, and we will get back to you in three business days or less.
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Featured Webinar: Franchise Basics
Thursday, February 8, 11:30AM-1PM | Free
LEARN MORE & REGISTER
Certifying as an 8a company
Tue, Feb 6, 12-1:30PM
REGISTER
HOT TOPICS
ChatGPT, Artificial Intelligence, and How They Can Help Your Small Business
WED, FEB 28, 12-1:30PM | Free
BUSINESS BASICS
Small Business Essentials February Series
STARTS THU, FEB 15 @ 12PM | Free
Streamline Your Business: Must-Have Tools for Entrepreneurs
THU, FEB 15, 12-1PM | Free
Creating a Quick Business Plan
THU, FEB 15, 12-1:30PM | Free
Setting Up a New Business Entity
FRI, FEB 16, 12-1:30PM | Free
SALES & MARKETING
Marketing Part 1: Developing Your Marketing Plan
WED, FEB 21, 12-1:30PM | Free
Marketing Part 2: Promoting Your Business
THU, FEB 22, 12-1:30PM | Free
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New Year, New Opportunities
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CBE All Things Green -- Grant Opportunities Are Now Open!
The District of Columbia (DC) Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD) is excited to announce that it will be soliciting applications for four independent programs under the Certified Business Enterprise (CBE) All Things Green Grants.
Applications
are due by February 16, 2024 at 2 pm.
CBE All Things Green is an initiative within DSLBD to support CBEs in the expanding green and sustainable energy and buildings market. In partnership with the Department of Energy and the Environment (DOEE), DSLBD is supporting CBEs with opportunities to prepare them for DOEE, DCSEU, and more market opportunities. DSLBD will refer CBEs to the CBE Green Contract Services grantees so they can utilize marketing and back-office services offered through the program, and grantees may propose strategies to recruit additional CBEs.
We Aspire Incubator
In 2023, 43 justice-involved DC entrepreneurs participated in the
WeAspire program
, almost doubling its participant enrollment from the previous year and making this the most diverse cohort, to date. Over the 14 weeks of the cohort, participants were provided mentorship, business planning assistance, leadership development skills, and work experience to support their dream of running their own businesses.
Aspire to Entrepreneurship started in 2016 at the request of Mayor Bowser as a pilot incubator program and has grown to be an annual grant process to build the entrepreneurship ecosystem supporting justice-involved residents pursuing wealth-building through small business creation and growth. The Aspire Program and its members are a crucial part of DSLBD’s commitment to supporting the growth of small businesses in big ways that build community wealth and economic development for the District.
Applications for the We Aspire 2024 cohort is now open.
Apply by March 1, 2024 at 2 pm.
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LEDC Food Venture Initiative
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Under the LEDC Food Venture Initiative, LEDC now offers two distinct programs designed to support food entrepreneurs at different stages of their journey:
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Food Business Incubator
:
This 8-week hybrid program is ideal for aspiring entrepreneurs with a food business idea. It focuses on the fundamentals of starting a business, aiming to launch participants' ventures within 90 days.
READ MORE HERE
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Food Business Accelerator:
This 12-week hybrid program is tailored for established food business owners with proven concepts earning over $3,500/month. It offers up to 24 courses and workshops, concentrating on significant revenue and operational growth.
READ MORE HERE
Each program is uniquely structured to guide entrepreneurs from initial concept to market launch, and then from early success to substantial business expansion.
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Innovate Together Grant in partnership with TikTok
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The BGV | TikTok Innovate Together Grant Program
is a collaborative effort between Black Girl Ventures and TikTok, stands as a transformative initiative with the overarching goal of empowering small business owners/entrepreneurs and content creators on their journey to success. The program will provide financial support enabling businesses to work with creators who possess the prowess to craft captivating content resonating with target audiences. The program aims to redefine success by fostering innovative collaborations, amplifying brand reach, and building lasting legacies.
Applications opened:
January 30, 2024
Application close:
February 29, 2024, 11:59pm
Click here
for more information and to apply.
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💸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
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💸 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
.
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💸 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
.
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💸 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.
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Additional Funding Opportunities:
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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.
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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.
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©
Adams Morgan Partnership
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