The program has helped 40 businesses open their doors since its launch in 2024.
(Created by DB Graphics with AI)

The Miami Downtown Development Authority (Miami DDA) has approved a new round of business incentive grants, supporting the launch or expansion of 15 businesses across the Arts & Entertainment District, Brickell, and the Central Business District.

The program has proven a driver of economic activity, helping 40 businesses open their doors in the urban core since its launch in 2024 and generating strong demand from entrepreneurs eager to participate in the district’s continued growth.

The latest group of grantees shows how the program is fueling local business growth and activating street-level spaces across Downtown Miami. More than just funding, the incentive is translating directly into new storefronts and expanded local businesses across the urban core. Since the program’s launch, more than $3 million has been awarded to businesses, with restaurants, cafés, tech-startups, and retail spaces among those receiving vital support.

“Downtown Miami’s future is powered by the small businesses that bring our streets to life, creating opportunity, energy and a true sense of place,” said Suzanne Amaducci, Miami DDA board member and partner, Real Estate Practice Group Leader at Bilzin Sumberg. “Through these incentive grant programs, we’re supporting growth and shaping a more vibrant, connected, and resilient Downtown where residents, visitors, and businesses thrive together.”

The newly approved grantees include:
Bijou Social Club – A Miami-native–owned hospitality company expanding its presence in Brickell and Downtown Miami with a cocktail lounge concept designed to foster community and networking.

Flagler Street Bakery – From the team behind beloved local spots like Tâm Tâm, Fratesi’s Pizza, and Over Under, building on a successful pop-up concept to establish a permanent, community-driven “third space” aligned with the Flagler Street revitalization.

Heal Day LLC – A health-focused, tech-enabled café offering a modern dining experience, including the area’s only dedicated gelato station and a model built on convenience, wellness, and digital ordering.

Sky Coffee Buenos Aires Inc. – An expanding coffee concept opening its second location, known for its distinctive café built inside a retired airplane, bringing a unique, experience-driven concept to Downtown Miami.

Croutons Inc., d/b/a Ristorante Fratelli Milano – A long-standing, locally owned restaurant that has served Downtown Miami since 2006 and is now reinvesting in the district through a full renovation and major expansion.

The Shul of Downtown Inc. – A first-of-its-kind kosher café, market, and community lounge in Downtown Miami, designed to serve students, residents, and the growing Jewish community while activating street-level retail.

Primos Hermanos Corp. d/b/a Primos Hermanos – A new fast-casual concept from the established La Granja brand, bringing affordable, high-quality Peruvian-inspired meals to Downtown Miami.

Wine Branding LLC d/b/a The Collective Sanctuary – A collaborative business hub providing private offices and communal workspace designed to support small businesses, entrepreneurs, and companies entering the Miami market.

Devonica LLC d/b/a The Invitorium – A luxury design and print studio specializing in custom invitations and event materials, highlighting continued investment from a long-standing local business owner in Downtown Miami.

Sunny Beauty Bar LLC – A full-service beauty and wellness establishment relocating within Downtown Miami to support personal care for a diverse clientele.

The Yard Gym – A globally expanding boutique fitness concept with more than 100 locations worldwide, bringing its strength training, recovery amenities, and community-driven model to Downtown Miami.

Black Swan Solutions LLC d/b/a Wašté – A beauty and wellness retailer specializing in natural and organic products for textured hair, introducing a first-of-its-kind Indigenous-focused retail concept to Downtown Miami.

Smart Swimsuits – A sustainable swimwear and lifestyle concept.

BuildrFi, Inc. – A fin-tech platform providing cash flow management and flexible payment solutions that help construction businesses manage project expenses and maintain momentum without high-cost financing.

Atano Inc. – An AI-powered platform that streamlines provider credentialing and insurance enrollment for healthcare organizations, reducing delays and improving operational efficiency.

The Miami DDA’s business incentive program supports job creation, boosts commercial occupancy, and enhances the district’s appeal as a premier destination to live, work, and visit. While funding for the current fiscal year has been fully allocated, the next cycle of incentive programs is expected to open in October, with businesses encouraged to begin preparing early. To qualify, businesses must operate within the Downtown core, commit to long-term leases, and demonstrate the potential to contribute to the area’s economic vitality.
For more information on the incentive program, visit www.MiamiDDA.com.

About the Miami Downtown Development Authority (Miami DDA)
The Miami DDA is an agency of the City of Miami funded by a special tax levy on properties within its district boundaries. It is governed by a 17-member board comprised of three public sector appointees and 14 downtown property owners, residents, and/or workers who are tasked with overseeing the direction of the agency and setting policy. The agency is committed to grow, strengthen, and promote the economic health and vitality of downtown Miami. As an agency of the City of Miami, the Miami DDA advocates, facilitates, plans, and executes business development, quality of life, planning and capital improvements, and marketing and communication strategies. Visit www.miamidda.com/ for more information.

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