As an organization that specializes in Economic Development, we spend a lot of time assisting small businesss entrepreneurs that are just starting out, or that are ready to expand their business to the next level. But what happens when an entrepreneur is ready to retire or move on to the next big thing? Hint: If you just close down and move on, you might be leaving money on the table! This week, we visit with Melissa Patel of Transworld Business Advisors of DC Metro. Melissa talks about how to go about selling your business, no matter where you are in your business life cycle. Listen now and plan your next steps!

Our friend Brian Becker wears many hats. Not only is he the wizard behind the successful NE Eats event, but he's also the Director of Small Business Outreach at the Ciocca Center for Principled Entrepreneurship at Catholic University. This exciting program is part of the Busch School of Business, providing exclusive DC access to the Inner City Capital Connections program. Tune in now to find out how Brian and his colleagues are making a difference for small business owners throughout the DC area. 

There are many aspects of business ownership that are directly informed and impacted by laws and regulations. Kevin Hilgers and Tom Martin of Goldblatt Martin Pozen LLP visit with us about several new laws impacting businesses in DC, including the implementation and implications of Universal Paid Leave. Listen to learn more, and be sure to send us legal topic requests for future episodes featuring Tom and Kevin.

Brian Becker started NE Eats four years again, and it is almost here again! This year it will be at DC Brau on June 1, from 4 - 8 p.m. We visit with Brian about how the tasty event got its start, what this year is featuring, the future of the event, and most importantly, why NE Eats is such an important event for DC food and beverage producers. Tickets are still available - listen now to find out how you can get involved!

We all know that community libraries are an invaluable resource and are true anchors in the community. But did you know that the DC Public Library has resources for small businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs? In this episode, Diamond Newman, David Quick, and Eric White from the DC Public Library stop by to talk about "GoDigital" and other spectacular opportunities for small businesses.

It's that time again! Porch Fest 2019 is on April 13th, from 2 - 6 p.m. Our own team member, Jessica, stops by to talk about the food, the sponsors, and of course, the music! Listen now, and you can get all the info about Porch Fest on our website (www.riamainstreet.org).

Get ready for the most local of local 5Ks! The MBT 5K is back, and local "Health Architect" Chickaro Martin stops by to give us an update on registration information. They are also planning several workshops to help you get ready for the race! 

A wide-ranging discussion with Paul Ruppert, long-time DC entrepreneur, on the small business climate here in DC.

Zachy's is a fantastic new wine business, with a really interesting range of services! Tim Finch stops by to tell us all about it.

A recap of the year's activities on RIA Main Street