Arts & Appetite

Throughout the day, attendees engage in conversations that demystify the process of starting a business in DC—from understanding regulatory requirements to accessing technical assistance and capital. The event also highlights the lived experiences of local entrepreneurs and the unique advantages of building a business in the District. By aligning with the city’s broader economic development goals, including the revitalization of downtown and the Mayor’s inclusive growth agenda, Arts&Appetite plays a vital role in shaping a more equitable and creative future for Washington, DC. 

About Arts&Appetite: 

Arts&Appetite is a hands-on, solutions-driven event designed to help aspiring chefs, artists, and creative entrepreneurs in Washington, DC take real, actionable steps toward launching and growing their businesses. Whether attendees are just beginning to explore an idea or already navigating the startup phase, this event offers direct access to the resources, guidance, and networks needed to move forward. 
 

The purpose of Arts&Appetite is to demystify the process of starting a creative business in the District. It connects entrepreneurs with agencies and experts who can help them understand licensing requirements, access funding opportunities, build community partnerships, and market their businesses effectively in a competitive environment. By doing so, the event fills a critical gap between inspiration and execution—providing attendees with a clear path from idea to action. 

 
At the same time, Arts&Appetite supports the District’s broader economic development goals by strengthening the pipeline of small and local businesses, revitalizing key areas like downtown DC, and investing in the long-term success of the city’s creative economy. It's not just an event—it’s a launch point for building a more inclusive and vibrant business landscape in the District. 

Arts & Appetite – Session Highlights 

• Keynote Address (15 minutes) 

A personal narrative from a local entrepreneur who transformed a passion for cooking into a thriving business. The keynote will emphasize the decision to grow their enterprise within the District, highlighting both the unique opportunities and challenges encountered. 

• Mini Workshops: From Passion to Business (12 minutes each) 

Each session includes an 8-minute presentation followed by 4 minutes for Q&A. Participating agencies—DLCP, DOB, OCP, OTR, and DC Health—will provide an overview of District requirements for licensing and documentation. Presenters will focus on compliance, essentials and available resources for technical assistance and business support. 

• Panel Discussion (35 minutes) 

Topic: Doing Business in the District 

Host: Greater Washington Chamber of Commerce 

This panel explores how chambers support creative entrepreneurs, featuring real-world experiences and lessons learned from local business owners. 

• Focused Session I: DSLBD (30 minutes) 

Topic: CBE Certification, Made in DC, and Funding Opportunities 

20-minute presentation followed by 10 minutes of audience Q&A. 

• Focused Session II: DMPED (30 minutes) 

Topic: Scaling and Growing Your Business 

20-minute presentation followed by 10 minutes of audience Q&A. 

• Fireside Chat (30 minutes) 

Moderator: Director, OCFTME 

Topic: Creatives Doing Business with the District 

A conversation with the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities and DGS on how the District procures and supports art for public spaces. 

• Closing Reflections (10 minutes) 

Speaker: DLCP Director 

A summary of key takeaways and themes from the day’s sessions.

Event Agenda

Registration Link