This holiday season is more important than ever for local small retailers that have been hit hard by COVID-19, many of which are hoping to make up for lower than average 2020 sales before the end of the year. Just in time for the holiday shopping rush, Mayor Muriel Bowser, the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development and the Washington D.C. Economic Partnership have launched an initiative to promote shopping at small local retailers throughout the city – Shop in the District.

The one-stop digital platform is a guide to shopping local and shopping safe all year round, and especially this holiday season. The website connects you directly with retailers featuring a curated list of unique items, including gift guides from notable D.C. personalities (think José Andrés and Ruby Corado) making it easier than ever to find the perfect gift for others (or yourself!) from businesses right here in the District.

As small businesses continue to confront the challenges associated with the pandemic, Shop in the District aims to help retailers thrive by shining a light on local makers from all wards of the city that reflect D.C.’s diverse community. This program will provide ecommerce opportunities and promotion to underserved minority and women-owned businesses as well as introduce residents to local retailers that are likely new to them.

In addition to this comprehensive guide of local businesses, Shop in the District has partnered with local delivery services, NEAR.delivery & DC To-GoGo, to launch a pilot program. This same-day delivery solution allows customers to conveniently shop safely from the comfort of their own homes.

While Shop in the District is here just in time for the holidays, this initiative will continue to provide valuable opportunities to showcase D.C.’s incredible local business well into the new year, as shops will be added to the platform on a rolling basis.

D.C. residents interested in supporting local this holiday season can follow @ShopintheDistrict on Instagram and Shop in the District on Facebook, and peruse the website to explore all of the fantastic businesses that call D.C. home. Local businesses interested in becoming a featured retailer can visit Shop in the District to learn more.