‘Digital Empowerment Day’ | DC mayor hands out 160 Chromebooks to small businesses

Gabby Allen
·2 min read
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WASHINGTON (DC News Now) — In honor of “Digital Empowerment Day” on Wednesday, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser distributed Chromebooks to small businesses.

“By being intentional and strategic about closing opportunity gaps and investing in residents and businesses, especially our local entrepreneurs, we have made DC a top city for tech,” stated Bowser in a press release. “We know how important an online presence is for business these days, so distributing these computers is one more way we can help local entrepreneurs get their fair shot and make it easier to do business in DC.”

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The 160 Chromebooks were given to business owners who are part of the Department of Small and Local Business Development’s (DSLBD) Dream Pitch Program and Aspire to Entrepreneurship programs. Chromebooks were provided by Human IT – an organization that refurbishes technology for low-income individuals.

Recipients of the Chromebooks also were given access to courses and certifications on computer-based skills and software. Residents can learn more here.

The Mayor’s Office said that it is through strategic investments and the support of entrepreneurs that D.C. has become a top city for tech.

Bowser’s 2025 budget includes investments for small and local businesses, such as: 

  • $26 million to implement the Business and Entrepreneurship Support to Thrive (BEST) Act, which will simplify business licensing.

  • $7 million for DMPED’s retail business grants, including the Great Streets program, Locally Made Manufacturing program, and Neighborhood Prosperity Fund to transform emerging corridors into thriving and inviting neighborhood centers.

  • $4.86 million for DSLBD’s DC Main Streets program to support and promote the revitalization of business corridors.

  • $1.5 million to continue developing and supporting the new DC Business Portal’s operations to streamline various licensing processes for District businesses.

  • $2.5 million to support pop-up and short-term retail in vacant commercial spaces Downtown.

  • $5 million for the Vitality Fund, which provides grants to businesses in high-growth sectors.

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