Small Business Center

AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia's Small Business Development Program:
Cohort V is now in session!

We were truly impressed by the exceptional quality of applications we received this year. Selecting participants for Cohort V was a challenging, yet rewarding task. After careful consideration, we are delighted to announce the acceptance of 16 businesses into our program. We believe this cohort possesses the potential to make a significant impact and we are excited to support their growth and development over the coming year.

Calling all District-based small businesses

AmeriHealth Caritas DC is dedicated to fostering a healthy and thriving community, and that includes supporting businesses that reflect the rich diversity of our city.

Empower your business, empower your community

We are excited to announce that the application for the highly anticipated cohort V of our esteemed Small Business Development Program (SBDP) is now open. This yearlong program offers a unique opportunity for 15 local small businesses to accelerate their growth and success.

Here's what makes our program (PDF) Opens a new window stand out:

  • Targeted support: Gain a competitive edge through customized guidance in key areas like business development, legal advisory, certification guidance, professional development, financial advisory, and procurement expertise.
  • Yearlong mentorship: Benefit from a 12-month structured program designed to unlock your full potential and navigate industry challenges.
  • Expanded opportunities: Become part of a vibrant network of like-minded entrepreneurs and unlock new business prospects within the District.

By strengthening your business infrastructure and growth strategies, you'll be well-positioned to:

  • Enhance profitability: Implement best practices to optimize your bottom line.
  • Win more contracts: Expand your client base and amplify your revenue potential.
  • Reach a wider audience: Develop strategies to attract new customers and solidify your brand presence.
  • Unlock working capital: Position yourself for optimal financial health and growth.
  • Boost your bonding capacity: Secure higher bonding limits to take on larger projects.

Join a thriving network of successful businesses!

This program is your chance to connect with industry leaders, build valuable partnerships, and become a driving force in the District's economic landscape.

Applications are open now. Don't miss this incredible opportunity to elevate your business and contribute to a healthier community.

Complete your Small Business Development Program application Opens a new window today.


View our cumulative CBE spend graph (PDF). Opens a new window


Evelyn Rodriguez, M.A.

Featured small business — The Aquiline Group

Founded in 2002 by Evelyn Rodriguez, M.A., The Aquiline Group provides communications services that transcend cultural, geographic, and socioeconomic barriers. This small business aims to make a difference in the world by helping government agencies and D.C.-based organizations reach low-income, low-information, and hard-to-reach populations. As Managing Director of The Aquiline Group, Rodriguez is the Corporate Monitor for its portfolio of business, specializing in marketing communications, partnership development, and recruitment.

Rodriguez values the many years she has worked with AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia (DC), helping with a range of services and outreach efforts including event planning and translation services. At present, her team assists with provider recruitment efforts, aiming to bridge any gaps that may exist in the provider network. One example focuses on the ongoing maternal health crisis by recruiting doulas to assist in maternal caregiving.

Read more about The Aquiline Group.

View past featured small businesses:


Grow and Go Local DC!

We provide resources to help develop small and local business enterprises, thus increasing the pool of qualified Certified Business Enterprises (CBEs) in the District. We mentor our Small Business Enterprise (SBE) and CBE service providers by giving them access to our network of business resources to accelerate their success and create jobs and revenue for the District.

Our program includes technical and general assistance to help local businesses file CBE applications. We value being a part of the District’s business community and firmly commit to supporting and strengthening it by providing opportunities for SBEs to thrive and by investing broadly to ensure economic success for District residents.

Look for notices of our special events, training sessions, and marketplace activities to strengthen business connections and encourage partnerships.

Grow and Go Local DC! contact information

If you would like to connect with us and learn more about our Grow and Go Local DC! program and how you can participate, please email growandgoacdc@amerihealthcaritasdc.com Opens a new window.

See how you can become a certified small business. Opens a new window

Certified small business FAQs Opens a new window