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We are an inclusive, collaborative innovation hub for big ideas and groundbreaking technology dedicated to solving for a more sustainable, equitable and vibrant future for everyone. Located in the heart of Washington, DC, we welcome startups, entrepreneurs, and innovators from around the world through our global soft landing initiative.
DMPED is fully committed to building a tech ecosystem in the District that supports entrepreneurialism, research, workforce development, and collaboration. DMPED provided a $2 million grant to catalyze Penn West and transform DC into a global destination for uniting digital technology with public policy, equity, and social impact.
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An anchor institution of Penn West, GW’s urban campus offers world class education and healthcare facilities, cutting-edge medical research, tech and entrepreneurship programs, and more. As an R1 research university with over $200 million in annual R&D, GW has created more than 250 startups and spinouts since 2010. Ranked in the Top 25 Universities globally for unicorn founders, GW is an NSF I-Corps Hub Partner.
WDCEP supports growth of the tech sector in the District and focuses on business attraction and retention. Working to cultivate the tools, infrastructure, workforce, accessibility, and climate needed for businesses, the Partnership offers comprehensive site selection resources. WDCEP is a leading resource for doing business in DC.
Located in the Golden Triangle, at the center of the world’s capital, Penn West is home to prestigious universities, tech institutions, and international development organizations. The Golden Triangle is adjacent to the White House and home to key government agencies and major global institutions, including The World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, the International Finance Corporation, and the Delegation of the European Union to the United States. Through the Washington DC Global Soft Landing initiative, Penn West provides the resources and support that international entrepreneurs and businesses need to successfully enter the U.S. market and establish a presence in DC.
For established and growing businesses, as well as startups, Penn West provides access to an immense and diverse workforce, connections to government and policymakers, and a mix of highly flexible workspaces, from Trophy office to coworking space.
We have built a strong network of partners to build Penn West—we hope you’ll join us.
We aim to become the world’s premier destination for uniting technology with public policy, equity, and social impact.
Located in one of the DMV region’s densest job centers, Penn West is dedicated to making innovation and prosperity available to everyone, with a focus on diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. Fresh ideas emerge when everyone participates.
DC is home to the brightest minds and most passionate changemakers in the world – and was recently named the #4 tech market in North America by CBRE (with the highest percentage of female tech workers). By prioritizing future-forward industries unique to DC and serving as a destination for national and international commercial innovators, we are amplifying the sectors that already have a strong presence in our backyard: health, government, education, and finance.
Penn West is home to global partnerships. From Federal government agencies and the White House, to the World Bank, International Monetary Fund, International Finance Corporation, and the European Union Delegation to the USA – the equity and innovation district leverages the unique presence of nearby international development organizations to build a better future.
Our team of experts, made up of economic developers, local government, chambers of commerce, and a world-renowned research university, are here to provide international businesses with the expertise and connections required for a successful entry into the Washington, DC market.
Companies participating in the soft landing program receive a range of benefits and services including:
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The Penn West Accelerator provides the tools, mentorship, and connections you need to grow your startup in Washington, DC, and beyond.
Explore the Golden Triangle’s 44-square-block neighborhood with an interactive map. The map makes it easy to find restaurants, hotels, bars, shopping, and more.
The Office of Innovation & Entrepreneurship (OIE) provides programming around innovation, education, venture creation, and making connections to support GW entrepreneurs and the Mid-Atlantic startup community.
Washington, DC is a resilient city that pivots and grows in the face of challenges. We will continue to be the best city in the world to do business, bring big ideas to life, and set the standard for inclusive prosperity. Ready to move your company forward? Then #ObviouslyDC is where you belong.
The WDCEP is your partner in business development and beside you all the way when staging your DC investment. Start strategizing with WDCEP’s resources, which offer everything you need to know about starting or running a business in DC, all in one place.
Enhance your talent strategy and hire an apprentice through BuildWithin. With a targeted training program, apprentices are well prepared for your desired role. Get matched with an apprentice and build your workforce to achieve your business objectives.
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