The District is gearing up to host the 2027 NFL Draft, and local business leaders recently gathered at Capital Turnaround in Navy Yard to connect with the National Football League. The event is part of the NFL’s Source program, which aims to bridge the gap with businesses in cities where drafts are being held.

Supporting Local Businesses

The NFL Source program actively contracts local businesses to provide essential event operations, including linens, photography, janitorial services, and food and beverage. This approach turns the NFL Draft into an economic catalyst, keeping the financial boost for local communities going even after the draft itself.

According to Myisha Boyce, who leads the NFL Source program, the goal is to support local businesses and provide them with opportunities to grow. "Beyond the direct economic impact, [local businesses are] also making partnerships and they’re networking with local representatives that allow them to grow their business post-event," said Boyce.

The NFL is working with over 100 local businesses to assist with the draft-day festivities, which are estimated to host over a million fans. Dr. Chanelle Reynolds, director of culture and engagement for the Washington Commanders, emphasized the importance of supporting local small businesses, saying, "The local small business is the backbone of the DMV community. So we were so excited to be able to extend our platform to give them the access and the visibility for this economic opportunity."

Original reporting: The Washington Informer — read the source article.