March 2023

The City of Miami Beach Economic Development Department is pleased to provide you with this monthly business newsletter that includes the latest information and resources available for our business community.



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Miami Beach Womens History Month: Chef Samantha Cruz

Women’s History Month is one of the many moments in the year when the City of Miami Beach celebrates and highlights the contributions of women to our community and beyond. For the month of March, in honor of Women’s History Month, we celebrate chef Samantha Cruz, the first chef of, the soon to be launched, Rum Room and Venu, located in Miami Beach Convention Center campus in Collins Canal Park. 



Click here to read more.

BUSINESS RESOURCES

The Fresh Start Business Grant

Are you an aspiring entrepreneur looking to start or grow your business? This grant is for you! 


Whether you’re starting over or starting from scratch, Incfile wants to be there to help your business succeed. One adult entrepreneur will receive $2,500 to put toward business startup costs and will also receive free formation services from Incfile.


Applications will be accepted until March 21, 2023.Click here to view grant requirements and to apply.

Miami Beach Youth Job Fair

April 21, 2023

In partnership with the City of Mami Beach and Miami Beach Senior High School, Career Source South Florida would like to invite you to participate at a Youth Hiring Event!


If you are a Miami-Dade County registered business in the zip codes of 33139, 33140, 33141, that currently has open employment opportunities within your organization and are interested in participating in this job fair, you must register here.


Upon completion of registering your business, please email your employer participation confirmation to:


Jofre Cruz - [email protected]

Diana Valdivia - [email protected]


Businesses must be completely registered by Monday, April 10, 2023, to participate.

The Amber Grant - $10,000 Grant for Women Business Owners

WomensNet founded the “Amber Grant” in 1998. The grant was set up with one goal in mind: to honor the memory of a very special young woman, Amber Wigdahl, who died at just 19 years old — before realizing her business dreams.



Today, WomensNet carries on that tradition, proudly giving away at least $30,000 every month in Amber Grant money. In recognition of the diversity of businesses owned by women, WomensNet has also expanded its grant-giving to include “Marketing Grants,” “Business Category Grants,” as well as two “$25,000 Year End Grants.”

 

Click here to view grant requirements and to apply.

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY AVAILABLE


Looking for retail space? Consider this North Beach location at 715 71st St. or this corner space in the heart of Mid Beach at 3801 Collins Ave. If South Beach is on your list consider this location at 1560 Lenox Ave.


To view other available properties, click here.

BUSINESS NEWSFLASH

Miami Beach to Launch Commercial Lease Subsidy Program

In March 2023, the City of Miami Beach will launch the Commercial Lease Subsidy Program, a financial assistance program intended to strengthen the retail character of the Art Deco Cultural District by promoting arts and culture and reducing the number of grandfathered (legal non-conforming) establishments that operate prohibited uses. The program is designed to curate desirable business activation along commercial corridors and reduce the businesses that are not compatible with the City’s brand.


The three (3) year program offers eligible businesses a waiver of annual business tax receipt (BTR) fees and the reimbursement of monthly expenses related to rent or mortgage payments, leasing expenses, or real estate taxes (up to $20,000 per year, over three (3) years, contingent upon annual budgeted funding and compliance with program requirements by the participating business).


The program is only available to properties physically located within the geographical boundaries of the Art Deco Cultural District (roughly bounded by Ocean Drive to the east, Fifth Street to the south, Washington Avenue to the west, and 23rd Street to the north) and is geared to: vacant storefronts, new to market businesses promoting arts and culture, or existing prohibited businesses that are grandfathered and operate legally with a valid BTR (e.g. certain check cashing stores, pawn/souvenir/t-shirt shops, tobacco/vape dealers, pharmacies, grocery or convenience stores, tattoo parlors, and occult science establishments). The arts and culture objective will prioritize new businesses creating immersive and shareable experiences that prioritize customer engagement and leverages onsite activities/events, such as experiential and artisanal retailers or interactive and activity-based spaces.


Program boundary map to be provided with application.


More information will soon be available on MBbiz.com or [email protected]

Miami International Airport Sets Record

Miami International Airport had a record-breaking year in 2022, with 50.6 million passengers, making it the busiest airport in Florida. The airport is home to more than 60 airlines, offering flights to destinations around the world. Its strategic location and excellent infrastructure make it a preferred airport for many businesses operating in the region.


The record-breaking year at Miami International Airport is a positive sign for local businesses, as it indicates a healthy tourism industry and increased economic activity in the area. More tourists and business travelers mean more customers for local hotels, restaurants, and retail establishments. Additionally, the airport's cargo operations support a vast array of businesses in the region, from logistics and transportation companies to manufacturers and exporters. For business owners, this important milestone for the local economy provides increased opportunities to attract customers and generate revenue. Local companies that can meet the increased demand stand to benefit from the airport's continued growth and success. 



Click here to read more.

Miami Beach Hall of Fame Seeks Extraordinary People

The City of Miami Beach invites the public to honor extraordinary individuals who have made a significant and lasting impact to the urban island by nominating them for induction into the Miami Beach Hall of Fame.

 

“There are so many people who have shaped our great city into the thriving economic and cultural powerhouse we see today,” explained Miami Beach Mayor Dan Gelber. “We want to honor these great men and women in what has become a living history of our city.”

 

Past inductees include Michael Aller, former Mayor Matti Bower, Norman Braman, Barbara Capitman, Emilio and Gloria Estefan, Tony Goldman, Jorge M. Gonzalez, Morris Lapidus, Dr. Solomon “Sol” Lichter, Stephen Muss and Mitchell “Micky” Wolfson.

 

Nominations are being accepted now through 5 p.m. on May 1, 2023. Eligible individuals must have either been born in Miami Beach, made Miami Beach his/her place of residence or business and/or had a positive and lasting impact on the community.

 

Inductees will be honored with a plaque at the south concourse wall of the Miami Beach Convention Center listing their accomplishments and a special ceremony to celebrate their achievements.



Nominees will be considered based on distinguished achievements in the arts, architecture, design, science, athletics, business, community leadership, and family legacy. Nominees must be well known in their field of expertise and recognized as leaders. They may be living or deceased.


 Click here to view additional details and to download an application.

LOCAL EVENTS

Miami Beach Extends Partnership with the South Beach Wine & Food Festival® through 2028

The City of Miami Beach and the South Beach Wine & Food Festival® have agreed to a five-year renewal of their partnership on the annual four-day foodie extravaganza through 2028. A ceremonial signing occurred on Thursday, Feb. 23, 2023, at The Betsy Hotel rooftop.

 

“The South Beach Wine & Food Festival has become synonymous not only with delicious food but the best in hospitality that our city has to offer,” Miami Beach Mayor Dan Gelber said. “We look forward to extending our partnership with this family-friendly event to 2028 and beyond.”


Click here to read more.

Miami Beach Live 2023

As a business in Miami Beach, it's important to understand the significance of the spring season and its impact on the local economy. With an estimated $1.5 billion expected to be spent by travelers every year, spring break has become a major driver of economic activity in the area. This influx of visitors presents a valuable opportunity for local businesses to attract new customers and increase their bottom line. From offering special promotions to catering to the unique needs of springtime travelers, Miami Beach businesses can position themselves to take advantage of this period of increased demand. By recognizing the economic impact of this time of year, Miami Beach businesses can ensure they're well equipped to capitalize on this important time of year.


From beach yoga to sports tournaments and concerts, get ready to welcome visitors and tourists, let your business shine, and be a part of the thriving culture of Miami Beach.


Click here for more information.

Bank of America Small Business Kick-off

March 2, 2023

Local small businesses have been invited to be vendors during the Bank of America Small Business Kick-off event, giving attendees the opportunity to #shoplocal and learn about entrepreneurs across different industries and support their products and services.


Attendees will enjoy live cooking demonstrations at the beginning event, showcasing 2 Start UP FIU Local Participants: Chef Ivo d’Aguiar, Executive Chef and Owner of YALL FOODS, and Chef Jodhan Mourra, Executive Chef and Owner of Cabana by Chef Jodhan. Throughout the Kick-off, attendees can attend panels including a Digital Equity panel sponsored by Verizon, Investment and Financial Opportunities panel sponsored by Miami- Dade County, and a Government & Corporate Contracting panel.


The Kick-off will culminate with Keynote Speaker Shalaya Morissette, Chief, Minority Business and Workforce Division, Office of Economic Impact and Diversity U.S. Department of Energy.


Click here to register.

Aspen Ideas: Climate Miami Beach 2023

March 6-9, 2023

A collaboration with the Aspen Institute, the City of Miami Beach, and a diverse group of partner institutions in and beyond South Florida, Aspen Ideas: Climate will take place from March 6-9, 2023, in Miami Beach, Florida.


Now in its second year, Aspen is enlisting global policymakers, scientific experts, corporate leaders, inventors and innovators, artists, young leaders, and engaged members of the public to participate in this multi-day event which will feature mainstages, breakout and roundtable sessions, excursions to local and historic resilience points of interest, as well as tech, food, art, and music activities.


Aspen Ideas: Climate is designed to offer the public a chance to interact, learn, and inspire one another on ways we can collaborate, unlock technological ingenuity, and build a brighter future for generations to come.


Click here to register.

Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce Panel Discussion

March 23, 2023

Are you struggling to navigate the complex immigration policies and employment regulations impacting the hospitality industry in Miami Beach? On Thursday, March 23, 2023, at 8 a.m., the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce Tourism and Hospitality Council and Law Council will host a free joint panel discussion titled "Immigration Issues You Need to Know to Make Hiring Decisions". 


The panel discussion will cover immigration policies and procedures related to the various U.S. visas available to the Hospitality Industry. As the hospitality industry in Miami Beach heavily relies on immigrant labor, understanding the visa regulations and legal requirements that impact hiring decisions will help fill talent and service gaps. 


Click here to register.

City of Miami Beach Weekly Meetings


Stay up to date on all of our upcoming meetings. From Commission meetings to committee meetings, please click here for a full list with links to participate.

BUSINESS ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS

Miami Beach Emergency Small Business Expense Reimbursement Grant Funding Still Available

Small businesses in Miami Beach are encouraged to apply for a $20,000 emergency grant to cover rent, mortgage, utilities, payroll and operating expenses incurred during the COVID-19 pandemic. The grants are awarded on a first-come, first-qualified basis. Interested businesses may apply here.

City of Miami Beach Vacant Storefront Cover Program

The City of Miami Beach relaunched the Vacant Storefront Cover Program in a continued effort to improve the appearance of vacant, street-level commercial buildings and support the lease-up of retail spaces throughout the Miami Beach. Now the City is excited to announce five new designs have been added to the Program catalog.


First unveiled in 2019, this initiative supports property owners, brokers, realtors and property managers by wrapping vacant storefront windows free of charge with one of ten (10) artistic designs preapproved by the City.


Click here to learn more about the program and how to get started. Interested brokers, realtors, property owners and managers should apply here and email the completed application to [email protected].

Miami Beach Expedited Plan Review and Permitting Incentive Program

The City of Miami Beach is committed to diversifying the local economy by attracting and retaining companies in targeted industries like, financial services and technology. As part of this effort, the City is also offering an Expedited Plan Review and Permitting Program to incentivize targeted relocations, including expansions and associated development for companies. Click here to review full program guidelines.

Miami Beach Job Creation Incentive Program

The City of Miami Beach is offering the Job Creation Incentive Program (JCIP), a performance-based incentive adopted by the City Commission. The program aims to strategically attract new financial service companies and technology firms while helping existing businesses expand in Miami Beach to increase the number of high-wage jobs. Click here for more info and application details.

Miami Beach Film & Production Incentive Program

Making movies and other film projects in Miami Beach has never been easier! A new incentive program brings new guidelines, and fewer restrictions. To review program guidelines and apply, click here.

How to Apply for a Business Tax Receipt and a Certificate of Use

The choices you make affect your business operations, taxes, legal requirements, and revenue. View what you need to operate a business in Miami Beach here.


Plastic Free Miami Beach

PlasticFreeMB showcases businesses that have taken action to reduce plastics from their establishment and to help organizations learn and implement best practices in the area of environmental stewardship. Learn why and how we're combating single-use plastic hereInterested businesses can register here.

Pop-Up Venue Permit

Pop-up venues are temporary retail spaces that can be used to promote and sell products of all types, ranging from food and beverages, clothing or unique gifts. The concept has the potential for low overhead, low risk and is a great way to introduce yourself to the market, generate buzz, increase sales and extend the reach and exposure of your business. To apply for a City of Miami Beach Pop-Up Venue permit click here.

PROCUREMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Looking for Bid Opportunities?

If you would like to be notified of available competitive solicitations released by the City of Miami Beach, you must register your company through Periscope S2G, Supplier-to-Government by clicking here. Registration is easy and will take only a few minutes. Refer to the guide for instructions on how to register and submit an electronic bid here.

Become A Registered City of Miami Beach Vendor 

To read more and to register click here.


CONTACT US

Visit MBBIZ.com or contact the Economic Development team here for more information on resources, finding the perfect location(s) for your business expansion or sharing  ideas for future topics. 

NEWSLETTER ARCHIVE


Missed a prior edition? Check out previous newsletters and business spotlight stories here.

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