Mayor Bowser Encourages Residents to Shop Local and Support DC Small Businesses This Holiday Season

(Washington, DC) -Today, Mayor Muriel Bowser and the Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD) are encouraging residents to support DC's small business community by shopping local on Small Business Saturday, November 30 and throughout the holiday season.

"This holiday season, we're encouraging our community to shop local," said Mayor Bowser. "When you shop small, you're not just checking off your gift list-you're helping to fuel our city's economy and supporting the people who make our neighborhoods vibrant and unique."

Small businesses are the backbone of DC's economy, comprising 98.1% of all businesses and employing approximately 260,700 individuals, or 48% of the city's workforce, as reported by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The benefits of shopping small extend far beyond the purchase: research from American Express shows that for every dollar spent at a small business in the US, approximately 67 cents stays in the local community, creating a ripple effect of economic impact.

"This year, as we support our small businesses, we're also investing in the economic recovery of our neighborhoods and communities," said DSLBD Director Rosemary Suggs-Evans. "Small businesses are at the heart of DC's Comeback Plan, and when you shop local this holiday season, you're not just supporting a business-you're investing in the future of our city."

To kick off the holiday shopping season, DSLBD has launched its annual #iBuyDC Challenge, a social media campaign to amplify and encourage support for DC's small business community. Residents are encouraged to showcase their local finds by posting their purchases on social media with the hashtag #iBuyDC, inspiring others to shop small and local. More information about the #iBuyDC Challenge is available at dslbd.dc.gov/ibuydc.

DC offers countless opportunities to support our 70,000-plus small businesses during the holiday season. Mayor Bowser recently opened the 20th Annual Downtown Holiday Market, located in the heart of Penn Quarter-Chinatown. This year's market boasts an expanded footprint with over 70 vendors, including more than 30 small businesses featured in DSLBD's Made in DC program. These businesses have benefited from District-provided grants, technical assistance, and programming to help them thrive.

In 2023, the Downtown Holiday Market drove a 25% increase in foot traffic and generated an estimated $1.5 million in additional spending in the Penn Quarter-Chinatown community. Beyond supporting individual vendors, the market boosts surrounding businesses, restaurants, and entertainment venues, and showcases the impact of shopping local during the holidays.

Across DC, holiday markets are opening their doors, offering residents and visitors countless opportunities to support small businesses while enjoying the festive season. Here are just a few:

These markets showcase a diverse array of vendors, artisans, and Made in DC businesses, making it easy to find unique gifts while celebrating the festive spirit. With each location offering its own charm and specialties, there is something for everyone to enjoy this holiday season. Visit these markets to experience the joy of DC's local economy and holiday cheer!

In addition to shopping for gifts, residents can support DC's small businesses by dining out during DC Cocktail Week, running from Friday, November 29, through Thursday, December 5. With over 100 participating bars and restaurants, the week features creative cocktails, unique pairings, and exciting events. Celebrate the season while supporting local eateries and entrepreneurs. Learn more and find participating locations at dccocktailweek.com.

For more information about events, initiatives, and shopping local this holiday season, visit dslbd.dc.gov.

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