There are three funding amounts you can apply for. Review the table and determine what tier best suits your activity or event.
You may apply more than once with different projects; however, each organization can only receive one grant in 2027.
Informal groups and individuals can apply directly for Tier 1. For Tier 2 or 3, apply through a sponsor: An incorporated non-profit that holds the funds. New groups formed just for the activity are also welcome.
| Tier |
Amount |
Best for |
| Tier 1 |
$1,000 to $3,000 |
Helping small events and activities get started. Short application.
|
| Tier 2 |
$2,500 to $12,000 |
Supports existing events to improve and build on what they already offer.
|
| Tier 3 |
$10,000 to $25,000 |
Supports established events looking to grow, improve their offerings and build long-term success. Applications only accepted during the main intake period.
|
Grants can pay for the costs of putting on and promoting your activity. That includes safety and security planning, security costs, equipment rental, insurance, staffing, artist fees, food and marketing. Reusable equipment is also eligible.
As matching funds are not required, you do not need to contribute a set share of the budget or find other funding.
It can't pay for core operating costs, a past activity, fundraising events, travel, bursaries or contests, worship or religious instruction, or anything permanently installed on City land.
For full details, review the guidelines for the Culture Makes The City grant program.
Applications for Culture Makes The City grants will be reviewed against five criteria:
- Cultural authenticity and community leadership
- Community benefit, access and participation
- Intercultural connection across communities
- Feasibility and capacity
- Sustainability and quality
The full scoring rubric can be found in the guidelines, so you can see exactly what earns points. Priority will be rewarded to activities in quieter months (January to April, October to November) or at a location other than The Shipyards.
If your application is successful, these are the next steps:
- Sign a funding agreement with the City.
- Get paid. For Tier 1, receive full payment upon signing. Tiers 2 and 3, receive 75% upon signing and 25% after submitting the final debrief report.
- Add the Culture Makes The City badge to your promotion materials, using the provided toolkit.
- Complete and share the short debrief report within 90 days of your activity or event.
What does it mean to be part of Culture Makes The City?
Your activity keeps its own name and character, and joins a year-long celebration across the City. You'll add the Culture Makes The City badge to your promotional materials, with a marketing toolkit to make it easy. The City promotes your event as part of the year under Culture Makes the City identity.
What counts as culture?
Culture is meant broadly. It includes heritage, identity, language, food, traditions and creative practice, from music and dance to visual, media and Indigenous arts.
Can we get a City and NVRC grant for the same activity?
Recipients of CNV funding typically are not eligible for NVRC grants. However, situations may vary. Contact NVRC for more information: nvrc.ca
Can we apply more than once?
Yes, you may apply more than once with different projects, however, each organization can receive only one grant in 2027.
Do we need an event permit?
Yes. If your activity is in a City park or public space, obtaining an event permit is a separate process. Please see the event booking guide for more information.
For activity between May and September 2027, apply by December 31, 2026, even before your grant status has been approved. You can withdraw from the grant or the permit process, if needed.
When will we hear back after applying?
Council will consider the grant applications in February 2027. You'll receive a written decision with the panel's reasons once the meeting minutes are published. If your event or activity is planned for January – March, you may still apply, but do so at your own risk. If you are successful, you may not receive funds until after your event has passed.
What if we're not funded, or miss the deadline?
If you are unsuccessful in the main round, you can apply again in 2027. More details will be announced shortly.
When does our activity have to happen?
We are currently accepting applications for events and activities taking place in 2027.
What happens if we're funded?
Sign a funding agreement, receive payment, add the Culture Makes The City badge to your promotional materials, then send a short debrief report within 90 days after your event ends. Visit the Next Steps section for details.
What if our plans change?
Tell us as soon as possible. You may need to return any unspent funds.