Elevate District 5

The COVID-19 pandemic brought to light systemic issues that have existed for decades in the Miami-Dade small business community. From technology barriers to inaccessibility to emergency grants and loans, our small business community was left in the dark many times about the tools they had available to survive this public health crisis. That's why Miami-Dade County Commissioner Eileen Higgins is launching the Elevate District 5 Program.

Elevate District 5 is Commissioner Higgins' comprehensive recovery and growth plan that utilizes data and feedback to create, leverage and expand existing small business programs and tools to support and strengthen small businesses in District 5. The program is funded by the American Rescue Plan (ARPA), President Biden's plan to provide direct relief to Americans and rescue the economy.

Program Goals

  • Foster a lasting supportive environment for District 5 small businesses.

  • Fill technology gaps at all levels.

  • Spur growth through skills and capital.

  • Build understanding of further small business needs.

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Commissioner Eileen Higgins

It’s been over four years since Eileen was elected to serve the residents and businesses of District 5 as its County Commissioner representing the Downtown and Brickell urban core, the sandy beaches of Miami Beach, tree-lined neighborhoods of Coral Way, and the colorful center of Latin culture in Little Havana.

As County Commissioner, Eileen is fighting for transportation solutions and safer, walkable neighborhoods as Chair of the Transportation, Mobility, and Planning Committee and of the TPO Urban Mobility Task Force. She has increased affordable housing opportunities by initiating, preserving, and creating 4,600 affordable housing units in District 5 alone, including 500 new units in the Senior Campus in Little Havana by 2024. Eileen has been an advocate for an improved quality of life and increased economic opportunities for residents and small businesses. She passed numerous legislative items in support of small businesses, cultural and arts organizations, and every day residents providing them assistance to recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, and remain resilient into the future.

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Hear from Elevate District 5 Graduates

“These courses have given me tangible tools to keep my business afloat in what may be the most challenging chapter of its nearly 25-year-long presence in District 5.

I am proof positive that Elevate District 5 is making meaningful change in our community! Honestly, I could have never made these strides in my business without the benefit of having participated in two courses back-to-back. I still have much to learn, but I am well on my way."

Yllien Verdes, Apple Family Dental