Foundations
682
Total Assets
$11.3B
Total Giving
$3.0B
Active Grants
908
National Rank
#39
District of Columbia Grant Programs: Small Business Innovation, Community Investment, and Cultural Enrichment
The District of Columbia offers one of the most concentrated and diverse grant ecosystems in the nation, reflecting the unique needs and opportunities of the nation's capital. With more than 300 active funding opportunities totaling over $63 million for nonprofits alone, DC's grant landscape spans small business development, affordable housing, clean energy, arts and culture, and community services.
The Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD) serves as a primary engine for economic grants, administering programs like the Growth Fund for scaling startups, the Locally Made Manufacturing Grant Program for consumer goods production, and the Emerging Retail Initiative for supporting District-based retail businesses. These programs reflect DC's strategic focus on building a diversified local economy that creates jobs and fills commercial space throughout all eight wards.
Key State Programs
DSLBD Growth Fund
Supports entrepreneurs, startups, and small businesses relocating to or expanding in Washington, DC. Focuses on growth-stage startups ready to scale, encouraging job creation and filling commercial office space throughout the District.
Housing Stabilization Grants (DMPED)
A $12 million investment providing support for the District's portfolio of affordable housing providers. Covers rent arrears for property owners and supports income-restricted affordable housing projects through the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development.
Events DC Community Grants
Provides $750,000 annually in two grant cycles to qualifying nonprofit organizations dedicated to supporting children through sports, performing arts, or cultural arts in the District of Columbia.
CBE Sustainable Energy Grants
Administered by DSLBD, this initiative supports Certified Business Enterprises in energy efficiency, electrification, renewable energy, and other green energy markets. Includes the RECS Grant awarding up to two grants of $50,000 each for development training delivery.
Locally Made Manufacturing Grant Program
Invites applications from qualified organizations to support businesses proposing manufacturing core operations in DC, encouraging the local production of consumer goods and strengthening the District's manufacturing sector.
Frequently Asked Questions
What small business grants does DC offer?
DC offers several small business grant programs through the Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD). The Growth Fund supports scaling startups relocating to or expanding in DC. The Locally Made Manufacturing Grant Program supports local consumer goods production. The Emerging Retail Initiative targets retail businesses. DSLBD also offers CBE Sustainable Energy Grants for certified businesses in clean energy markets. Visit dslbd.dc.gov for current funding opportunities and deadlines.
How can nonprofits find grant opportunities in DC?
Nonprofits can access more than 300 funding opportunities totaling over $63 million in the District. Serve DC produces a free Funding Alert highlighting opportunities for community-based, faith-based, and 501(c)(3) organizations. Events DC provides $750,000 annually for youth-focused sports and arts nonprofits. HumanitiesDC offers cultural and oral history grants. The Mayor's Office of Community Affairs runs the Community Grant Program for neighborhood-based organizations.
What affordable housing grants are available in DC?
The Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED) administers Housing Stabilization Grants, which provided $12 million to support affordable housing providers and address rent arrears. Mayor Bowser has also announced a $100 million investment in the Housing Production Trust Fund. The Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) provides additional housing grants and services for District residents and housing providers.
Are there grants for clean energy businesses in DC?
Yes. DSLBD offers CBE Sustainable Energy Grants for Certified Business Enterprises working in energy efficiency, electrification, renewable energy, and related green energy markets. The FY26 RECS Grant awards up to two grants of $50,000 each to businesses delivering targeted development training to DC Sustainable Energy Utility program participants. These programs reflect DC's commitment to growing the clean energy sector while supporting local businesses.
What arts and cultural grants does the District provide?
Events DC provides $750,000 annually in Community Grants supporting nonprofit organizations focused on children's sports, performing arts, and cultural arts. HumanitiesDC offers grants including the DC Oral History Collaborative with awards up to $12,000 for public projects utilizing oral history collections. Additional cultural funding is available through the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities, which supports individual artists and arts organizations across the District.
Explore
District of Columbia Funding Resources
Top Foundations
Largest Foundations in District of Columbia
| # | Foundation | Assets |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Indian Paintbrush Foundation | $1.9B |
| 2 | Wyss Foundation | $1.7B |
| 3 | Bainum Family Foundation | $752.8M |
| 4 | Freedom Forum Inc. | $650.2M |
| 5 | Morris And Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation | $636.1M |
Active Grants