Building Big from Small — Celebrating Local Success in Miami Beach
Each May, the City of Miami Beach takes time to honor the people and programs that shape our local economy. During National Small Business Week and Economic Development Week, we spotlight the entrepreneurs who make Miami Beach special, as well as the strategic investments that help them thrive.
From boutique retail shops to neighborhood cafes and innovative startups, small businesses make up over 90% of Miami Beach’s commercial landscape. They bring character to our streets, create local jobs, and reflect the diverse spirit of our community. During Small Business Week, we shine a light on the entrepreneurs who take bold risks, serve with passion, and contribute to the vibrant culture that defines our city.
Small Business Week: Honoring the Heart of Our Local Economy
National Small Business Week 2025 will take place from May 4 through May 10, recognizing the vital role small businesses play in fueling the American economy. Organized by the U.S. Small Business Administration, this annual celebration highlights the achievements of entrepreneurs and small business owners across the country, including those supported through SBA programs and partnerships.
In Miami Beach, small businesses make up more than 90 percent of the commercial landscape. They help define the city's character, generate local jobs, and contribute to a resilient and diverse economy. To honor their impact, the City of Miami Beach is marking the week with local programming and resources designed to empower business owners and support long-term growth.
This year, the City launched the Small Business Grant Program, offering direct financial assistance to help eligible businesses offset operational costs, invest in equipment, or strengthen workforce capacity. The program reflects the City’s commitment to making meaningful investments in its entrepreneurial community.
As part of the week’s events, the City will host a Small Business BTR Clinic and Business Concierge Event on Tuesday, May 6, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at City Hall (1700 Convention Center Drive, First Floor Conference Room). This event will serve as a one-stop resource center for local entrepreneurs. Business owners will have the opportunity to receive personalized assistance with obtaining or renewing their Business Tax Receipt and guidance on local and county-level regulatory requirements.
The event will bring together all departments involved in the BTR process at both the City and County levels. Participating City of Miami Beach departments include Planning and Zoning, Building, Finance, and Fire, as well as the Miami-Dade County Building Department, DERM, Water and Sewer, and the Miami-Dade County Tax Collector’s Office. Together, these departments will provide coordinated support to help business owners understand permitting, compliance, and operational requirements.
The City’s Tourism and Culture Department will be on hand to share details about the updated Pop-Up Venue Permit, which now allows pop-ups to operate for up to one year if they plan to transition into permanent businesses. The Public Works Department will also provide information on the Sidewalk Café Program, including how to apply and best practices for activating outdoor dining spaces.
The City of Miami Beach Economic Development Department will be available to share information on business incentive programs, site selection assistance, and its business concierge service, which helps entrepreneurs navigate city processes and connect with local resources. The City’s Procurement Department will also be present to guide businesses through vendor certification and local government contracting opportunities. Additionally, the Office of Emergency Management will offer details on the Business Emergency Response Team (BERT) program, which helps businesses prepare for and respond to emergencies.
Partner organizations will also be on hand to provide valuable support. CareerSource South Florida will offer workforce development resources, including recruitment tools, job placement assistance, and access to training programs. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will share information on federal programs, funding opportunities, and small business resources.
The Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce will also participate, offering information on member benefits, networking opportunities, and ways to engage with the local business community.
Small Business Week is more than a recognition of entrepreneurship. It is a coordinated effort to ensure local business owners have the tools, connections, and support they need to succeed in Miami Beach.
Economic Development Week: Investing in a Resilient Future for Miami Beach
Economic Development Week 2025, is May 11 through May 17, and a national observance created by the International Economic Development Council to raise awareness of the work economic development professionals do to support local businesses, strengthen communities, and drive sustainable growth.
In Miami Beach, economic development is more than a concept, it is an active commitment to creating the conditions where businesses can launch, expand, and succeed. This week is an opportunity to spotlight the programs, partnerships, and policies that help fuel the city’s economic engine year-round.
The Economic Development Department leads this effort by supporting business retention and expansion, streamlining permitting and licensing through its Business Concierge Program, and offering financial tools to reduce barriers and encourage private investment. Current programs include the Commercial Lease Subsidy Program, Facade Improvement Grant, Job Creation Incentive Program, and Expedited Plan Review Program, all designed to support business growth, improve commercial corridors, and attract industry investment.
Economic Development Week also serves as a reminder of the importance of collaboration. The City works closely with partners at the local, county, and regional levels to align resources, remove roadblocks, and ensure business owners and entrepreneurs have access to the support they need to thrive.
As we celebrate Economic Development Week, we reaffirm the City’s commitment to building a vibrant, inclusive, and forward-thinking business environment. One where ideas become enterprises, and enterprises build stronger communities.
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