Mayor Muriel Bowser

Washington, DC

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Mayor Bowser Invites Local Business Community to Celebrate DC Small Business Week

Thursday, May 1, 2025
DSLBD to Host Open House and Citywide Events May 5th Through 10th

(Washington, DC) — Today, Mayor Muriel Bowser and the Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD) are inviting residents, entrepreneurs, and community members to celebrate DC Small Business Week 2025, taking place May 5–10, as part of National Small Business Week, which was created by the U.S. Small Business Administration in 1963.

“Small businesses play a critical role in shaping our city’s economy and culture. When they grow, it means more jobs, stronger neighborhoods, and more opportunities for residents,” said Mayor Bowser. “Our goal is to help local businesses not only start but stay and thrive in DC, so they can continue to be part of DC’s growth, stability, and long-term success.” 

Small businesses are the backbone of DC’s economy, comprising 98.2% of all businesses and employing approximately 233,000 individuals, or 48.2% of the city’s workforce, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration. Research from American Express shows that for every dollar spent at a small business in the U.S., approximately 67 cents stays in the local community, creating a ripple effect of economic impact. 

In recognition of DC Small Business Week and in partnership with the DC Public Library, DSLBD’s Open House will take place on Wednesday, May 7. The daylong event will showcase the agency’s mission to support small and local businesses in growing, thriving, and staying rooted in the District and offer hands-on technical assistance, expert guidance, and networking opportunities for entrepreneurs at every stage.

“DSLBD Open House is a powerful example of how we bring our mission to life—by meeting entrepreneurs where they are and surrounding them with the tools, knowledge, and support they need to thrive,” said DSLBD Director Rosemary Suggs-Evans. “Whether you’re just starting out or scaling up, DSLBD is here to help DC businesses grow, stay rooted in their communities, and build long-term stability.” 

Among the workshops, attendees will learn how to navigate the DC Green Book, a key resource for accessing government contracts. The Green Book outlines the District’s procurement goals with Certified Business Enterprises (CBEs) and provides insights into upcoming contracting opportunities. Whether you’re newly certified or an experienced vendor, businesses will learn how to successfully compete for contracts and unlock millions in opportunities. 

Businesses are invited to attend any of the following events to celebrate Small Business Week: 

C-Suite to Main Street: America’s Small Business Day 2025 
Kick off Small Business Month with a dynamic day of learning and networking hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Hear from small business leaders, experts, and executives on strategies for growth and resilience. 

PowerUp DC 2025: Small Business Expo 
Join the District’s premier business event featuring workshops, panels, and connections to public and private resources—all designed to support the success of DC’s entrepreneurs. 

  • When: Tuesday, May 6 at 8:30 am
  • Where: Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library, 901 G Street NW 
  • Register to Attend: gwhcc.org/business-expo.html

DSLBD’s Open House and Pitch Competition  

Innovation Day at MLK Library 
Celebrate creativity and innovation at this hands-on event hosted by Threshold and DC Public Library, featuring demonstrations and showcases from local makers and tech founders. 

  • When: Wednesday, May 7 at 4 pm
  • Where: Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library, Fabrication Lab (Lower Level), 901 G Street NW 
  • Register to Attend: lu.ma/3ku6weis 

SBA National Small Business Week Virtual Summit 
Participate in this virtual summit hosted by the U.S. Small Business Administration. Attend sessions led by national experts on everything from marketing to federal contracting. 

SCORE: Small Business Education for Entrepreneurs 
Take part in SCORE’s free webinar series, which covers key business topics such as financial planning, branding, and digital growth strategies. 

Celebrate Mother's Day with Local Love at Flowers by Alexes! 
Join us for a special Mother's Day Vending Event hosted by Flowers by Alexes, featuring an exclusive showcase of Made in DC businesses! 

  • When: May 10, 2025 at 11 am
  • Where: Flowers by Alexes, 851 Upshur Street NW 

To view the full schedule of events and resources available during DC Small Business Week, visit dslbd.dc.gov/dcsmallbusinessweek. 
 

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