Economic Development : Features

Support local businesses with a "cash mob"--it's like a flash mob, but instead of dancing, you shop!

The long-abandoned, much-beloved Uline Arena is moving toward a new phase of life.  As the project moves forward, here's a look at the building's storied past.

A training program is aiming to place up to 600 District residents  in hospitality jobs. The ambitious program's goal is to fight unemployment in D.C.'s poorest neighborhoods.

Trash to treasure? Absolutely, and now the maxim practiced by artists and crafters everywhere is even creating green-collar jobs.

Elevation DC and Smart Growth America's Transportation in the City panel brought a standing-room-only crowd to 1776 to discuss new modes of transportation and the changes they're bringing to D.C.'s neighborhoods.

D.C's iconic train station has stood for more than a century. But just a few decades ago, its future was in doubt. See its transformation from mold, mildew, mushrooms and "The Pit" to its renaissance today.

The Internet brings the world to your door. But local businesses are using the Web to attract customers from just around the corner.

After more than a half-century of being retired, D.C. streetcars are set to connect the city by promoting new developments and serving neighborhoods that aren’t near a station. 

This is the new way D.C. parties: think warehouses and parking lots, not swanky ballrooms. Savvy entrepreneurs are launching new businesses to take advantage of this shift in thinking, and in the meantime, activate underused spaces and neighborhoods.

“When our youth don’t see their neighbors, parents, or family members going to work every day it makes having a job seem like an unattainable thing,” says one employment program director. But the teens taking part in these summer internships and job training programs are getting another view: one that shows them that they can contribute to the work world.

As cities continue to become more bike-friendly, new bike-based businesses are springing up to support the movement. These bike-centric businesses are both banking on and promoting a growing interest in riding, and in the process they are boosting their cities' economies.

D.C. bike ridership is on the rise--some anecdotal evidence says that the number of cyclists has doubled in the past few years. Here are some of the entrepreneurs who are taking advantage of this trend to make money and grow the economy.

The District needs better shopping options. A new toolkit might help neighborhoods figure out exactly how to lure those retailers in. Here's a hint: start by coming together.

Though yet to emerge in full color, fashion in Washington is growing. With both established and indie designers setting up shop in the District, and a forthcoming incubator that will provide resources to six designers, Washingtonians seem to be learning to embrace the benefits of good style. 

The second event in Elevation DC's speaker series, in partnership with Smart Growth America, brought a crowd to discuss how food and restaurants reshape neighborhoods.