DUMBO BID, seeking return of workers, creates local currency as incentive
'DUMBO Dollars' redeemable at local stores
The DUMBO Improvement District has launched a “Perks in Person” program for employees working in the neighborhood returning to the office this fall. The program is aimed at sparking local spending and creating an amenity for employers luring employees back to the office.
DUMBO is home to more than 500 tech and creative companies, including the headquarters of Etsy, Rent the Runway, West Elm, BIG Architecture (Bjarke Ingles Group) and dozens of digital advertising agencies, in addition to being the home for over 90+ retail small businesses.
The neighborhood has fared well during the COVID crisis as a hub for New Yorkers and returning tourists. However, the slow return of the workforce has posed a significant challenge, as many small businesses rely on the employee base for daytime and after-work revenue streams.
In an effort to continue to encourage the return of DUMBO-based employees, on Thursday, Oct. 28 from 3 to 5 p.m., members of DUMBO’s workforce can stop by the pedestrianized Washington Street in DUMBO (55 Washington St.) to get free ice cream sandwiches from Melt, plus $10 of “Dumbo Dollars,” redeemable at more than 20 neighborhood retailers and restaurants including: 68 Jay Street Bar, City Chemist (wellness and beauty), Emerald Gem Exchange (jewelry), Front Street Pizza, Glam Expressway (women’s clothing & accessories), Gran Eléctrica (Mexican restaurant), Le Chien Bleu (pet boutique), Loop of the Loom (Japanese Zen weaving dojo) and others.