International companies looking to set up shop in the United States can now get a 20% discount on office space in downtown Washington through a new partnership between the D.C. government and WeWork.
The Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED), the D.C. Economic Partnership (WDCEP) and WeWork announced the collaboration in October as part of the District's Global Soft Landing program. The program, which launched in 2024, helps international startups and companies enter the D.C. market with real estate, business services, immigration assistance and networking support.
The WeWork deal gives participating companies a 20% discount on private office space for a 12-month term. The primary location is WeWork's building at 1701 Rhode Island Ave. NW, blocks from the White House and Dupont Circle. Other WeWork locations across the District serve as secondary options. The offer runs through Dec. 31, 2027, and requires a minimum three-month commitment.
"Real estate is one of the many hurdles for an international company entering the U.S. market," said Derek Ford, president and CEO of WDCEP. "This collaboration clears that hurdle. Companies in the Global Soft Landing program get flexible, discounted space in the center of Golden Triangle."
The program targets high-growth industries: technology, with a focus on artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and fintech; life sciences and health tech; consulting; communications and design; and education and research.
Nina Albert, deputy mayor for planning and economic development, said the program "makes it easier for international companies to successfully enter the U.S. market."
The Golden Triangle Business Improvement District is a core partner. Supporting organizations include the Federal City Council, the DC Chamber of Commerce, the Greater Washington Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Washington Black Chamber of Commerce.
The collaboration comes as the District pushes to diversify an economy long anchored to federal employment. The DC Chamber of Commerce's 2026 State of Business Report, released Sept. 24, found the District had roughly 718,500 jobs in May 2026, down from 805,400 in February 2020. The report called for stronger private-sector growth in technology, cybersecurity and other sectors.
The DC Fiscal Policy Institute said in October testimony that the District's Office of the Chief Financial Officer estimated the loss of 24,000 federal jobs would cost D.C. more than $600 million in revenue by fiscal year 2029. Revenue projections declined by $736 million across the fiscal year 2027–2030 financial plan compared to February estimates, according to the institute.
The program's full suite of services includes immigration guidance, business development help, market research, community tours, regulatory navigation and connections to local service providers. New members referred by DMPED or WDCEP also receive half off WeWork keycards during the discount period.
International companies interested in the program can reach out through WDCEP's Global Soft Landing page or contact a WeWork sales representative before the Dec. 31, 2027, deadline.
