Explore current grant opportunities offered by the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED) and partner agencies within the Deputy Mayor’s cluster. These grants support a wide range of initiatives aimed at fostering inclusive economic growth, community development, and innovation across the District.
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY ACQUISITION FUND
STATUS: OPEN
Mayor Bowser and the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development, in partnership with the Council of the District of Columbia, are strategically investing up to $1.5 million in the Commercial Property Acquisition Fund (CPAF). Investment is subject to FY26 budget availability.
The Commercial Property Acquisition Fund is devised to provide down payment assistance through grants of up to $300,000 or 25% of the sale price, whichever is less, to eligible DC-based businesses looking to maintain and expand their operations to a physical presence by acquiring commercial property located in the District. The program is designed for business applicants to own and occupy the commercial property for at least 7 years.
City First Enterprises (CFE) is the grant administrator and main point of contact for this program. For questions or assistance regarding this grant program or application, please email [email protected].
GROWTH FUND
Growth Fund supports entrepreneurs, startups, and small businesses relocating to or expanding in Washington, DC. The program encourages job creation and filling commercial office space, with a focus on supporting growth-stage startups ready to scale.
STATUS: OPEN
Opened: February 6, 2026 at 4PM EST
Submission Deadline: March 23, 2026 at 4PM EST
VITALITY FUND
The Vitality Fund is a multi-year, performance-based incentive that supports large, established companies relocating to or expanding in Washington, DC. The program encourages job creation, capital investment, and long-term occupancy of commercial office space, with a focus on diversifying DC’s economy and supporting Downtown revitalization.
STATUS: OPEN
Opened: February 6, 2026 at 4PM EST
Submission Deadline: July 15, 2026 at 4PM EST
FY25 Great Streets and Emerging Retail Awardees
FY24 DMPED Grant Awards
