A Word With Some ‘Best of the DMV’ Business Finalists

December 18, 2025

The Washington Informer launched its inaugural Best of the DMV contest to recognize outstanding businesses, organizations, and individuals in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area. After receiving hundreds of nominations throughout July and August for categories spanning business, philanthropy, and education, finalists were selected and expressed gratitude for the community support that helped them succeed. Several finalists, including The Strand DC restaurant, Anacostia Business Improvement District, the Greater Washington DC Black Chamber of Commerce, and DJ Dirty Rico, emphasized how the local community's patronage and The Informer's coverage have been instrumental to their growth and visibility.

Who is affected

Alvin Creswell (co-owner of The Strand DC)
Residents of Deanwood and Ward 7
The Strand DC (Black-owned restaurant)
Anacostia Business Improvement District
Ashley Templeton (Anacostia BID's marketing and arts/culture program manager)
Greater Washington DC Black Chamber of Commerce (GWBCC)
Simone Ellison (GWBCC director of engagement and strategic partnerships)
Black business owners in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia
Rico Scott/DJ Dirty Rico
The Washington Informer
Community members throughout the DMV region

What action is being taken

The Anacostia Business Improvement District is working to keep Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue SE "clean, safe, and vibrant"
GWBCC is providing advocacy, policy support, capital access, and procurement opportunities for regional businesses in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia
GWBCC is working with the Deputy Mayor's Office for Economic Development on international business opportunities
GWBCC is promoting finalists through social media and email platforms
DJ Dirty Rico is broadcasting music on the radio station 24-7 and participating in community activities

Why it matters

This contest and the recognition of local businesses matters because it strengthens the symbiotic relationship between businesses and their communities, where both parties support each other in expanding resources and revitalizing neighborhoods. For Black-owned businesses specifically, the visibility and community support are crucial for survival and growth, particularly during times of economic transition. The recognition also highlights organizations working to provide essential services like business advocacy, capital access, cultural programming, and community cohesion that might otherwise go unnoticed by the broader public.

What's next

On December 21, The Best of the DMV winners will be revealed during a celebration and fundraiser at Busboys & Poets Anacostia.

Read full article from source: The Washington Informer