This National Small Business Week, support small and local businesses and get rewarded for your purchases through Open Rewards. Launched in 2022 by BizLaunch, Open Rewards is an innovative platform, where shoppers can earn 5% in cash back rewards for purchases made at local businesses, shoppers can then redeem those rewards for purchases at other local businesses.
Since the program’s launch, the National Landing Business Improvement District, the Columbia Pike Partnership and Ballston BID have joined Open Rewards, giving shoppers an additional 5% in cash back rewards for purchases made within their neighborhoods. Additionally for May, shoppers can earn twice the rewards for shopping at Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) businesses in National Landing.
Ready to start earning rewards?
Simply download the Open Rewards app from the app store, upload receipts for purchases at eligible businesses and earn your rewards.
Register Your Business
Many small businesses in Arlington are automatically enrolled in the program; however, if you’re a small business owner and want to be listed, sign up today. Promote your businesses’ participation in the program and download our ready-to-print flyer.
For more information about BizLaunch and how we support small businesses throughout the year, visit www.bizlaunch.org.
Join Arlington Economic Development’s BizLaunch team for an inspiring event — Brunch and Business: AANHPI Leadership and Their Unyielding Resilience — that honors the grit, passion and resilience of Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) small business owners who turned dreams into reality — right here in our community.
The event takes place on Monday, May 5, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Hyatt Regency Crystal City, located at 2799 Richmond Highway, Arlington, VA.
You’ll hear firsthand how three founders preserved their culture, pushed through barriers, and built businesses that serve, uplift and thrive. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, an ally or simply curious about the power of local stories, this is a moment to connect, celebrate and be moved.
AANHPI entrepreneurship has deep roots in U.S. history. As early as the 19th century, Bangladeshi, Chinese, Filipino, Japanese and Indian immigrants opened farms, restaurants and laundries in the U.S. — often while navigating exclusionary policies like the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 and the Immigration Act of 1924.
The tide began to turn with the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965, paving the way for a new wave of AANHPI entrepreneurs who would shape industries from tech and healthcare to retail and beyond. Today, the AANHPI population makes up 12% of Arlington, 7% of the nation, and 10% of all small businesses in the U.S.
Their stories are about more than just business success — they’re about courage, culture and building a future for the next generation.
BizLaunch is Arlington Economic Development’s small business and entrepreneurial support network. Whether you’re launching a new venture or growing an existing business, BizLaunch provides free resources, one-on-one counseling, and educational events to help you succeed. To learn more or schedule a consultation, visit www.arlingtoneconomicdevelopment.com/bizlaunch or email [email protected].
This column is sponsored by BizLaunch, a division of Arlington Economic Development.
Mark your calendars for June 17-18, because the State of GovTech 2025 is coming to Amazon’s HQ2 in Arlington.
This groundbreaking event, organized by CivStart in partnership with Arlington Economic Development, Technologists for the Public Good, the National League of Cities and e.Republic, promises to be a game-changer for local government innovation.
The State of GovTech 2025 will bring together the brightest minds and leading stakeholders in local government innovation — startups, tech leaders, investors, NGOs, academics and public officials. This event will redefine how technology can transform service delivery, making our communities stronger, safer and more thriving.
What to Expect at State of GovTech 2025
Cutting-Edge Technology: Discover emerging solutions through more than 20 fast-paced startup pitches judged by public and private sectors experts.
Market Intelligence: Stay ahead of the curve by learning about the latest tech trends in government. Hear from leaders about their challenges, visions and priorities, and gain the most in-depth understanding of the state and local government technology market available anywhere.
Problem-Solving Sessions: Engage in curated discussions and workshops that address critical issues in local governance, from digital transformation to equity and resiliency.
Networking Opportunities: Connect with a diverse range of innovators, including startups, government officials, investors, nonprofit experts and academic leaders. This is your chance to build meaningful connections and collaborate on advancing innovation in the public sector.
Why Arlington?
Hosting this event at Amazon’s HQ2 in the heart of Arlington, Virginia, next door to the nation’s capital leverages the region’s vibrant tech community and world-class infrastructure. We are confident that attendees will leave with fresh perspectives, meaningful connections and actionable strategies to drive impact in their communities.
This column is sponsored by BizLaunch, a division of Arlington Economic Development.
Arlington boasts a vibrant community of Black-owned businesses that significantly contribute to the county’s cultural richness and economic vitality.
Celebrating and supporting these enterprises honors Black heritage and fosters a diverse and thriving local economy. This past February, in partnership with the National Landing BID, we had the amazing opportunity to interview a leading entrepreneur in the community, Chef Rock Harper, with Queen Mother’s Kitchen, as part of the “Innovation Economy with Arlington Economic Development” podcast.
The robust discussion included all aspects of Chef Harper’s career, from mentorship to winning Hell’s Kitchen Season Three to why he chose Arlington as his first restaurant, launching Queen Mother’s in National Landing.
In keeping with supporting diverse entrepreneurs, please save the date of April 10 as BizLaunch and the Hyatt Regency Crystal City at Reagan National Airport will be hosting a Minority Vendor Showcase.
Vendor applications are currently open, and we invite all minority vendors to apply. The theme this year will be Food, Fuel, Fitness and Fun. The Showcase is an excellent opportunity to showcase your business to Hyatt Regency as many purchasing agents from the hospitality industry will be in attendance.
This column is sponsored by BizLaunch, a division of Arlington Economic Development.
Arlington is home to a wealth of talented professionals, and for those looking to take their expertise in a new direction, entrepreneurship offers an exciting opportunity.
At BizLaunch, we’ve helped countless federal employees turn their skills and experience into thriving businesses, guiding them toward success. While entrepreneurship isn’t for everyone, if you’re considering launching your dream business, BizLaunch and SCORE have the tools and resources you need to succeed.
On February 7, we partnered with SCORE for a special webinar designed for the federal workforce, covering the essential steps to launching a business and building a strategy for success.
The first step for many entrepreneurs is to develop a business plan. In our previously recorded webinar, Dr. Ebony Grey, a certified SCORE mentor, outlines the necessary elements of a successful business plan and the mindset required to be an entrepreneur. While a solid business plan is essential, entrepreneurs often need support in other key areas as well.
That’s where SCORE comes in. SCORE offers free training through its Small Business Essentials Series, provides industry-specific mentorship opportunities, and offers free business plan templates to help you get started.
Beyond planning, understanding business regulations is crucial. BizLaunch Director Tara Palacios breaks down the Small Business Checklist in the webinar to ensure entrepreneurs comply with local, state and federal regulations. BizLaunch also offers unique programming and one-on-one counseling to support new business owners at every stage.
Take advantage of this free recorded webinar to gain valuable insights into the entrepreneurial journey. From there, if you’re ready to take the next step, schedule a free one-on-one consultation with a BizLaunch expert today.
For more information about BizLaunch and to be notified about future opportunities, sign up for our newsletter by visiting www.bizlaunch.org.
This column is sponsored by BizLaunch, a division of Arlington Economic Development.
In an era characterized by rapid technological advancements and shifting economic landscapes, the role of small businesses has never been more crucial.
They embody the spirit of entrepreneurship, foster local culture and contribute significantly to the economy, making them indispensable to the vitality of communities. These establishments are not merely places of commerce; they are integral to the social fabric, helping to create a sense of identity and cohesion among residents.
In this month’s podcast, host Susan Soroko interviews Alex Held, Small Business Manager with BizLaunch, a division of Arlington Economic Development. Throughout the episode, Susan and Alex discuss all things small business and entrepreneurship and explore how supporting small businesses is key to supporting the community itself.
As the new year begins, many businesses take this time to strategize, set goals and envision their growth. Alex highlights the resources BizLaunch offers to help businesses achieve their 2025 objectives, including new programming and upcoming events such as:
Additionally, Alex discusses small business trends in Arlington and shares insights on how startups can better manage risk and join the 50% of businesses that succeed beyond five years.
The Innovation Economy Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, and other major platforms.
This column is sponsored by BizLaunch, a division of Arlington Economic Development.
Founded in 1970, Crystal Boutique is a full-service clothing shop catering to modern women who are discerning about quality, fit, style, color and exceptional service. “We specialize in personal shopping,” says Joel Cohen, President of Crystal Boutique.
For the past 55 years, Crystal Boutique has been a fixture in the Crystal City underground, becoming a beloved part of the Arlington Business Community and earning numerous awards for its longevity and outstanding customer service.
”Naomi Cohen and my father Sidney moved to Crystal City in 1968 and discovered a struggling women’s boutique. My mother later bought the shop, and it thrived — right place, right time,” says Cohen.
In April 2024, JBG Smith announced that the Crystal City Underground would permanently close at the end of October, forcing all remaining businesses to relocate. In response, the National Landing Business Improvement District and created a unique program called National Landing ReLaunch. This program offers free business consulting services, underwritten by the National Landing BID and managed through BizLaunch, to help businesses in National Landing navigate the transition.
Understanding the forthcoming challenge, Crystal Boutique was one of the first businesses in the Underground to take advantage of National Landing ReLaunch. “The program helped greatly with our social media,” says Cohen. Given National Landing’s accessibility to the DMV area, it was crucial for Crystal Boutique to rein in the area, for its namesake and because customers were familiar with the location.
The scarcity and high cost of traditional retail space in National Landing could have been a hurdle for small businesses. Still, Crystal Boutique rose to the challenge with creativity and innovation — focusing on customer service. While traditional retail space was limited, the abundance of office space opened exciting new possibilities.
Crystal Boutique quickly embraced the County’s Commercial Market Resiliency Initiative, transforming office space into a vibrant retail environment and leading others to follow. “I didn’t let COVID take me out, I wasn’t about to let the closure of the Underground take me out, now we’re bigger and stronger than ever [at the new location],” says Cohen.
Crystal Boutique and JBG Smith negotiated to find a suitable office location, eventually creating space on a third-floor office suite at 2231 Crystal Drive, above Starbucks. “We moved in the first week of November and have quickly adjusted to our new space. We’re excited to have more room to offer a truly remarkable shopping experience — for evening, daytime, casual or work,” says Cohen.
To celebrate their new location, BizLaunch and National Landing are supporting Crystal Boutique with a ribbon-cutting celebration on January 16, 2025, at 11:30 a.m.
Join us to celebrate their new location and enjoy their Trunk Show and pre-season spring sale. For more information about Crystal Boutique, visit www.crystalboutique.com.
BizLaunch’s Transformational Challenge and PitchFest
This column is sponsored by BizLaunch, a division of Arlington Economic Development.
Transform your business in 2025 with BizLaunch’s Transformational Challenge and PitchFest — Early Bird Registration Closes December 31.
As we gear up for 2025, BizLaunch is thrilled to present the Transformational Challenge and PitchFest — a dynamic event designed to empower local entrepreneurs with the tools, knowledge and opportunities they need to excel in today’s competitive market. Building on the success of last year’s program, which awarded a $5,000 grand cash prize, this year promises to be even more impactful. Powered by BizLaunch and SCORE, this event is the perfect platform to elevate your business.
What is BizLaunch Transformational Challenge and PitchFest?
The BizLaunch Transformational Challenge and PitchFest is a four-week program featuring expert-led sessions, hands-on workshops, and an exciting pitch competition. It offers small business owners a chance to refine their strategies, adopt cutting-edge technologies, and secure funding to scale their operations.
Why Should You Participate?
Expert Guidance: Gain invaluable insights from industry leaders and seasoned entrepreneurs. The program kicks off on January30, 2025, with a session on using the Lean Business Model Canvas to develop winning strategies for the new year.
AI Integration: Learn how artificial intelligence can transform your business operations. On February 6, 2025, Dr. Ebony Grey will lead a session on applying AI in marketing, operations, and planning, highlighting tools like ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot to boost productivity.
Financial Mastery: Strengthen your financial planning skills with guidance from experts at Wacif and Arlington Community Federal Credit Union. On February13, 2025, discover how to craft winning financial projections and access capital to fuel your growth.
Pitch Perfect: Wrap up the training portion of the program on February20, 2025, with a workshop on crafting a compelling pitch. Get actionable feedback from instructors and peers. Then, in April, put your skills to the test in the final pitch competition, where you’ll compete for a cash prize!
The Benefits of Participation
Skill Development: Gain practical, actionable strategies in financial planning, AI integration, and business growth.
Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow entrepreneurs, potential investors, and industry experts. Building relationships is essential for business success.
Cash Prizes: Compete for cash prizes to give your business a financial boost. Registration fees and sponsorships contribute to the prize pool, making this a true community-driven initiative.
How to Get Involved
Registration is open now, but space is limited. Take advantage of early bird pricing by registering before December 31, 2024, and start 2025 with a strong foundation for success. Whether you’re an experienced entrepreneur or just starting your journey, the BizLaunch Transformational Challenge and PitchFest has something for everyone.
Ready to take your business to the next level?
Register today and join us for an unforgettable journey of growth, learning and success. Let’s make 2025 the year your business transforms and thrives!
This column is sponsored by BizLaunch, a division of Arlington Economic Development.
As the holiday season quickly approaches, shoppers are getting ready for one of the year’s busiest shopping weekends. While Black Friday and Cyber Monday often dominate the scene, another important day deserves attention — Small Business Saturday.
This 15th annual event, which falls on Saturday, November 30 this year, is your opportunity to show your love to Arlington’s local retailers. Small Business Saturday has become a powerful movement in its short history, helping small businesses gain exposure and build stronger ties with their communities.
BizLaunch’s Creative Economy Director, Susan Soroko, interviewed the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Washington Metropolitan District Office’s Director, Larry Web, on the Innovation Economy podcast to ask him about the importance of why consumers should support local businesses. He points out that when a community spends its tax dollars within its borders; it is extremely beneficial to the community where that business resides. The podcast also addressed how the SBA supports small businesses needing funding and contracting opportunities.
Why Shop Small?
Small businesses are the backbone of our local economies. They create jobs, foster innovation, and help give communities their unique character. When you choose to shop small, you’re not just buying products or services — you’re investing in your community’s growth and success. At BizLaunch, we love our small businesses.
Here’s why shopping at small businesses matters:
Local Economic Impact: Money spent at local businesses tends to stay in the community, supporting local jobs, schools and infrastructure.
Unique Products: Small businesses often offer unique or handcrafted items you won’t find at large chain stores.
Personalized Service: Small business owners are passionate about what they do and often go the extra mile to provide exceptional customer service.
Community Building: Small businesses are key players in creating a vibrant, supportive community. They sponsor local events, charities and initiatives, giving back in ways that larger corporations can’t.
How to Support Small Businesses on Small Business Saturday
Participating in Small Business Saturday is easy, and every little bit helps! Here are some simple ways to get involved:
Shop Local: Visit local stores, boutiques, and markets. You can find everything from unique gifts to locally made goods. Check out the BizLaunch Business Directory to discover more shops!
Spread the Word: Tell friends and family about your favorite small businesses. Word-of-mouth recommendations can boost a small business’s visibility. Follow BizLaunch and Made in Arlington on social to discover new local brands!
Shop Online: Many small businesses have online shops, so you can still support them if you cannot shop in person.
Leave a Review: Positive reviews on sites like Google or Yelp can help small businesses build trust with new customers and grow their reputation.
Gift Cards: Purchasing gift cards is a great way to support a business now and give a gift that lasts throughout the year.
Final Thoughts
This Small Business Saturday, make a conscious effort to support the small businesses in your area. Our friends at One More Page Books are also celebrating their Annual Small Business Weekend Passport 2024 on November 30. Whether shopping for gifts or just picking up something for yourself, your support can make a significant difference. Together, we can create a thriving local economy and ensure that the businesses that make our communities unique continue to flourish.
So, let’s make this Small Business Saturday the best one yet!
This column is sponsored by BizLaunch, a division of Arlington Economic Development.
Undoubtedly, one of the most essential parts of a business is its brand name. It’s how customers recognize businesses; it’s communicated in a business’s marketing material, and it’s one way businesses can differentiate themselves from the competition.
In this week’s Small Business Focus, we will discuss how businesses can protect their name and things to look out for when selecting a brand name for your startup.
When thinking of a brand name for your business, the elements that make a business’s name successful should:
Be easy to pronounce
Be easy to spell
Convey some sense of what the business does
Once you develop a successful name that follows those three rules, you’ll want to ensure that creative minds don’t think alike and that another business isn’t using your name.
First, you’ll want to ensure another company hasn’t already registered the name. In Virginia, you can use the Virginia SCC’s Name Check Availability to quickly search if your business name is available. Simply enter your name, and if it’s available, you can register it. Seems simple enough, right? While that’s a good start, you’re not quite done. Since we live in a tri-state area, we would also encourage startups to check D.C. and Maryland records to see if that name is being used by one of our neighbors across the river.
Second, search your name on the internet using Google and on social media sites such as Instagram or Facebook. For one, you’ll want to know what your business name is associated with on the internet, and you’ll find out if someone is using that name or a name like your business. We’ve had some clients skip this step only to realize that unsavory images appear when they Google their business name.
Finally, check to ensure that another business doesn’t have a trademarked of your business name. A trademark is intellectual property that protects other businesses, national and international, from using your name. You can search trademarks by going to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office’s website using the Trademark Search System.
Once you’ve done your due diligence and your name is available, then it’s good to use for your business. However, if a name is already registered or similar to a trademarked brand, you might want to consider using a different name to avoid confusion with your customers and potential lawsuits.
When starting a business, there is so much to think about, from deciding on the right name to complying with regulations to marketing and sales. BizLaunch is your one-stop shop for all things starting and running a small business. To learn more, visit us at www.bizlaunch.org or schedule a one-on-one consultation today.
This column is sponsored by BizLaunch, a division of Arlington Economic Development.
As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, it’s time to recognize the incredible contributions of Latino-owned businesses across the United States.
This year’s theme, Building Our Future Together, reflects the power of unity, mentorship and community in business. At BizLaunch, we are proud to uplift the next generation of Hispanic entrepreneurs by fostering collaboration, providing essential resources, and emphasizing the transformative impact of mentorship.
The Growing Impact of Latino-Owned Businesses
The growth of Latino-owned businesses has been nothing short of extraordinary. According to the Stanford Latino Entrepreneurship Initiative, Latino-owned businesses contribute over $470 billion annually to the U.S. economy, with their numbers increasing by 44% over the last decade (Business Wire).
Today, there are approximately 5.1 million Latino-owned businesses in the U.S., showcasing their influence in industries like retail, construction, technology, and healthcare (SBA.gov). Latino entrepreneurs are not just building businesses; they are creating jobs, boosting local economies, and innovating across sectors.
However, despite this impressive growth, many Latino entrepreneurs still face challenges such as limited access to capital, mentorship, and networking opportunities. These barriers can stifle their potential. That’s where BizLaunch steps in.
BizLaunch: Empowering Latino Entrepreneurs
At BizLaunch, we don’t just believe in offering advice — we create connections. For years, we’ve been a hub for Latino entrepreneurs, helping them navigate the complexities of starting and scaling businesses. Whether it’s through our workshops, consultations, or networking events, we’ve built a community that fosters collaboration and long-term support.
We understand the cultural nuances and specific needs of Hispanic business owners. Our programs are designed to make entrepreneurs feel empowered, not overwhelmed. Through our mentorship initiatives, we connect up-and-coming business owners with experienced professionals who offer tailored guidance, share valuable insights, and, most importantly, open doors to growth.
Research shows that small businesses with mentors are five times more likely to succeed than those without one (SCORE, 2023) (SBA.gov). That’s why we emphasize mentorship as a critical tool for success. Through BizLaunch’s mentorship programs, Latino entrepreneurs gain access to experts who can help them refine their business plans, secure funding, and tap into new markets.
Additionally, we tailor our programs according to current market trends to ensure entrepreneurs stay competitive. For example, our LaTech program offers Latino tech entrepreneurs essential resources and mentorship to break into the ever-growing tech industry, bridging the gap between innovation and opportunity in the Latino community.
Building a Thriving Business Community
Latino entrepreneurs have always been known for their strong sense of community, and this is something we encourage at BizLaunch. We’re not just about individual growth — we’re about building a network where everyone can thrive together. Our events and initiatives provide a space for entrepreneurs to exchange ideas, share their challenges, and offer support. It’s in these spaces that innovation happens, partnerships are formed, and businesses flourish.
For a deeper look into how innovation can foster a sense of community, check out Natalia Micheletti of Pryze and her insights on building community through innovation in this podcast episode.
One of the highlights of this year’s Hispanic Heritage Month is Brunch and Business: Building Our Future Together. Hosted by BizLaunch, LEDC, and Arlington Public Libraries, and sponsored by Amazon and Hyatt Regency at Crystal City, this event is designed to bring Latino entrepreneurs together, offering both aspiring and established business owners the chance to network, learn, and grow. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, this is your opportunity to build relationships that can propel your business forward while connecting with key industry leaders and fellow entrepreneurs.
We invite you to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by being part of this growing community. Whether it’s seeking mentorship, becoming a mentor, or simply attending our brunch and business event, your involvement strengthens the Latino business community.
Together, we can continue building a future where Latino entrepreneurs thrive, supported by mentorship, collaboration, and a powerful network of like-minded individuals.
Save the date for Brunch and Business: Building Our Future Together and be part of something bigger — a vibrant community where we uplift each other and succeed together. Let’s celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by committing to the success and future of Latino businesses.
This column is sponsored by BizLaunch, a division of Arlington Economic Development.
The third annual “Arlington ARTWALK” welcomes back galleries, artist studios and public art between Clarendon and Ballston.
This year, look for more exhibits, workshops, an artisan market, music and a celebration of the 40th anniversary of Arlington Public Art. Check out the ARTWALK on Saturday, October 5, from 4-7 p.m. Use the newly released Arlington Public Art Walking Tour map for the rest of the year to discover art at your own pace. With nearly 80 permanent projects, Arlington Public Art enhances our community’s unique sense of place.
The Arlington ARTWALK is a self-guided art experience that connects local galleries, artist studios and cultural events. During the walk, gallery hours for participating organizations will be extended so that our friends, neighbors and artists can enjoy the exhibits. Arlington ARTWALK is a free public event that allows people to experience the various arts of Arlington, featuring local artists and exhibitions in several different venues.
Visitors can enjoy multiple exhibits and sites in one day. Along this vibrant creative corridor, discover galleries, an artisan market, live music, demonstrations, family-friendly activities and stop-worthy public art installations.
This year’s event brings back favorites: ARC 3409 studios, Fred Schnider Gallery, Mason Exhibitions, WHINO, The Shop at Arlington Public Library, Northside Social Arlington, public art installations and GMU Mason Square activities, and a special Made in Arlington Market at Museum of Contemporary Art (MoCA) Arlington, to honor its 50th anniversary.
Be sure to check out “Art After Hours at MoCA” to celebrate the national biennial exhibition and other fall shows from 12-8 p.m. and featuring a reception with a cash bar from 5-8 p.m. that evening.
If you are looking for other unique activities after hours, head to WHINO, opening at 5 p.m. Part art gallery, part restaurant, and all vibe, WHINO tops off the ARTWALK with artists HKS 181 on exhibit.
Or jump-start the ARTWALK on Thursday, October 3, with the Arlington Art Truck and artist Scott Pennington at Welburn Square Mega Market from 3-7 p.m.
