Washington, D.C., Mayor Muriel Bowser joined Drew Peterson (MSB’25) on the Hilltop for a conversation at the third annual Venture in the Capital Conference, hosted by Georgetown students in 2025.
Bowser said talent is the main reason Washington is a strong place to start a business, along with its universities, neighborhoods, schools, parks and culture. She discussed the city’s $26 million venture capital program, which uses federal Treasury funding to invest alongside private investors in D.C. startups, and the city’s ability to move regulations quickly because it acts as city, county and state. She talked about the Capital One Arena renovation with Georgetown alumnus Ted Leonsis and Monumental Sports, and urged students to engage in policy and budget discussions. Her advice to those considering public office: run when you know what you want to get done and believe you can persuade your neighbors.