Do Business With Us

Fare to Falls circa 1930

NPS

Business Opportunities

Private businesses play an important role in helping the National Park Service carry out its mission by offering services to park visitors that are not provided directly by the government. By welcoming the private sector as a partner in providing services, we can ensure visitors have access to services they want and need and broaden the economic base of surrounding communities.

The National Park Service has developed two types of contracts based on the scale of the commercial activity:

Commercial Use Authorizations (CUAs)

• A Commercial Use Authorization is required for businesses to conduct commercial activities within C&O Canal NHP. CUAs are required of all operators who provide any goods, activities, services, agreements, or other function for park visitors. Examples of typical commercial operations within the park include, but are not limited to, rock climbing instruction at the Carderock climbing area, access to the Potomac River through C&O Canal NHP, bike tours utilizing the park's historic towpath, horseback riding tours in authorized areas, and shuttle services utilizing C&O Canal NHP parking lots. Learn how to apply for a CUA.

Concessions Contracts

• Concessions Contracts are longer-term contracts offering visitor services that usually take place solely within the park. Park concessioners include boat rentals, bike rentals, and food trucks. Learn more about concession opportunities with the National Park Service.

 

Special Use Permits

A special park use is a short-term activity that takes place in a park area and typically provides a benefit to an individual, group, organization, or a First Amendment cause, rather than the public at large. The National Park Service may permit a special park use providing the activity will not cause derogation of the park's resources or values, visitor experiences, or the purpose for which the park was established. The park issues Special Use Permits for activities like special events, races, weddings, and public assemblies. Learn more about Special Use Permits.