Business Programs
The Old Takoma Business Association runs a number of programs designed to help businesses cross-jurisdictionally, from grants to technical assistance to revolving loan funds. A brief ddescription o some of these programs are listed below.
The Facade Improvement Program
The Main Street Takoma Facade Improvement Program (FIP) has the goal of preserving, rehabilitating and improving its commercial properties by offering financial assistance to owners and tenants, while simultaneously encouraging private investment. The Main Street Takoma businesses and stakeholders believe that by enhancing the business district’s “curb appeal” with facade improvements they will be able to showcase the area’s distinctive qualities, while creating a more pedestrian-friendly, business-friendly, and customer-friendly environment. OTBA has received grant money from the District of Columbia Council and from the State of Maryland, Neighborhood Business Works.
For more information on requirements and application the Design Committee may be contacted at (240)253-4229, or via e-mail at designcommittee@mainstreettakoma.org.
The Revolving Load Fund
The Main Street Revolving Loan fund is a program, funded by a Community Legacy grant from the State of Maryland, to provide loans for capital improvements to businesses in Old Takoma, in Maryland. For more information on requirements and applications, contact the Economic Restructuring Committee or call the OTBA office: 240-253-4229.
Technical Assistance for Small Business
Small Business Association SCORE Program matching business mentors to you, online classes and more!
Maryland Small Business Development Center ~ assisting businesses in the Main Street cross-jurisdictionally.
National Women's Business Center, 1001 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington DC 20036 - ongoing training and classes for entrepreneurs.
Enhanced Business Information Center - ongoing training for DC Business owners and entrepreneurs.
Ongoing OTBA General meetings [see here for schedule] on a variety of topics, with guest speakers
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Attend a Main Street Committee meeting & help your Main Street!
We have four standing committees:
- Design, which works on the physical appearance of the area;
- Economic Restructuring, which focuses on business retention and recruitment;
- Promotions, which seeks to highlight local businesses to the broader Washington area, as well as create events and activities that bring people to Old Takoma;
- Organization, which provides the structure for the whole organization and the work of the other committees.
All committee meetings are held monthly. Please check the committee page for more info.