Spring Grants Symposium

“Foot traffic feels different.”

“Everything costs more.”

"How are people getting these grants?”

“Who actually knows how this works?”

Many of our city's business owners share these thoughts! So, we decided to bring the conversation into one room.

Hosted by CitiLife Development founder Glenda Lee, this interactive experience will explore current and upcoming funding opportunities through DMPED and other regional resources while breaking down what actually makes businesses competitive for grants, partnerships, contracts, and long-term growth opportunities.

Featured guest Gloria Nauden will bring decades of leadership experience across banking, philanthropy, government, arts, and economic development in Washington, DC. As former Executive Director of the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities, Gloria oversaw the distribution of millions in grants supporting neighborhood activation, entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and creative businesses throughout the city. She understands both the challenges local businesses face and the realities behind how funding decisions are made.

By design, this is far from a generic motivational panel.

Expect candid conversation about:

• how businesses are positioning themselves to access funding,
• why some organizations consistently win opportunities while others miss them,
• how visibility, partnerships, and preparation impact growth,
• and what it takes to build a business that can compete and thrive in today’s DC economy.

If you are trying to figure out your next move in DC’s evolving marketplace, then this room is for you.

Reserve your Symposium Pass TODAY.

Seating is limited.