Urban Comeback - Cities, Small Business, and the Future of Downtowns

Explore the future of urban centers in this 51-minute conference talk from The Aspen Institute's Aspen Ideas Festival. Delve into the challenges and opportunities facing American cities post-pandemic, focusing on the role of small businesses in revitalizing downtowns. Learn about the "donut effect," office occupancy trends, and commercial real estate issues. Discover strategies for small business diversification, partnership developments, and policy initiatives. Hear insights from key figures including Kevin Delaney, Isabella Casillas Guzman, and Muriel Bowser as they discuss topics such as affordable housing, sports in DC, and the Small Business Administration's role in economic recovery. Gain valuable perspectives on individual actions and policies that can contribute to urban comebacks and the reimagining of city centers.

Introduction
Challenges and Opportunities for American Cities
The Role of Small Businesses
Challenges Opportunities for Small Businesses
Challenges for Small Businesses
The Donut Effect
Office Occupancy
Small Business Credit
Commercial Real Estate
Ingredients for Success
Small Business Diversification
Partnership Developments
Individual Actions
Policies
SBA and the Economy
Questions
Affordable Housing
Sports in DC
Final Thoughts