Growth Fund 2025

The Employment Center Vitality and Local Jobs Creation Fund ("Vitality Fund") is an initiative by the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED) in the District of Columbia. This grant program aims to provide funding to entrepreneurs, startups, and small businesses. Its core mission aligns with fostering economic growth and job creation within the District by encouraging businesses to establish or expand their presence in commercial office spaces. The program, also referred to as the Growth Fund, specifically targets attracting, growing, and retaining growth-stage startups in Washington, DC, thereby strengthening the local economy. The target beneficiaries of the Vitality Fund are for-profit and non-profit entities that are growth-stage startups and small businesses. These organizations must commit to occupying commercial office space, including coworking spaces, and creating new jobs within the District of Columbia. The impact goals are to stimulate economic development, create employment opportunities for residents, and revitalize commercial areas, particularly the central business district. By supporting these businesses, the program seeks to contribute to a vibrant and diverse local economy, ensuring the District remains an attractive hub for innovation and business growth. The program prioritizes applicants that meet specific criteria designed to maximize its impact. Preference is given to businesses that commit to leasing or owning commercial space for at least two years and those relocating or expanding within the central business district, designated as the "Vitality Fund Target Area." Furthermore, the fund focuses on high-growth industry sectors and subsectors, including Consulting and Business Services (HQs), Communications and Design (Marketing, Electronic Media), Education and Research (Research Organizations), Life Sciences (Health Technology), and Technology (Cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence, Financial Technology). While companies outside these specific subsectors may still be eligible, this strategic focus ensures investment in areas with significant growth potential and economic impact. Expected outcomes include the creation of at least five new jobs over a two-year period per grant recipient and an increase in commercial office space occupancy. Measurable results will track the number of employees assigned to or working at the Eligible Program Location, the number of new jobs created, and the square footage of commercial space occupied or leased. The overall strategic priority is to support the District's economic resilience and growth by nurturing a dynamic business environment and fostering local job creation. The theory of change behind the Vitality Fund is that by providing financial assistance for operational costs, rent subsidies, tenant improvements, workforce training, and recruitment, DMPED can incentivize businesses to invest in Washington, DC, leading to increased economic activity and a stronger job market.

Submit applications early to avoid technical issues. Ensure all documents are accurate, signed, and in the required PDF format. Carefully review the required attachments checklist.