Downtown Program Fund Grant

The Downtown Program Fund is a grant opportunity offered by the City of Eugene Cultural Services to support arts and cultural programming in publicly accessible outdoor spaces within Eugene’s downtown core. This fund is designed to encourage community engagement, strengthen local arts, and foster inclusion through artistic events. Programming supported by this grant should align with the City of Eugene's strategic priorities, especially in promoting belonging, sustainability, and economic vitality in the downtown area. The fund is a key instrument in supporting Eugene’s cultural vibrancy by activating spaces such as Kesey Square, the Park Blocks, the Farmers Market Pavilion & Plaza, and adjacent public rights-of-way. The 2026 Downtown Program Fund includes a new opportunity for selected awardees to present an event series during the "Picnic at the Pavilion" on Wednesdays at the Farmers Market Pavilion & Plaza. These event series must include a minimum of four activations and will benefit from a full venue fee waiver. Overall, funding is open to all artistic and cultural disciplines, including visual art, music, theatre, dance, film and multimedia, and interdisciplinary practices. Events may be singular or recurring, and the fund supports initiatives from both individual artists and organizations. Funding support varies based on venue. For events occurring in downtown spaces excluding the Pavilion (like Kesey Square or Park Blocks), awardees can receive up to $5,000 in cash support, access to public space and a Downtown Activity Zone permit at no cost, and availability of equipment such as chairs and canopies. Events occurring during the Lane County Farmers Market on Tuesdays may receive priority. While some permits are covered, recipients are responsible for other required permits and insurance, though grant funds can be used to pay for these expenses. Eligible applicants include individuals and organizations physically located in Lane County. Previously funded applicants are welcome to apply again once prior reports are completed. A unique aspect of this grant is its 1:1 matching requirement, which can be met through a mix of cash, in-kind contributions, or volunteer hours. Applicants may propose up to two programs but will only be funded for one. City employees are not eligible to apply individually, though they may collaborate on projects led by non-City employees. Applications must be submitted online by noon Pacific Time on November 12, 2025. An online information session and a public work session are scheduled in advance to assist applicants. Final decisions will be announced by December 19, 2025. Programming must take place between April 1 and October 31, 2026, and recipients are expected to submit a final report with high-quality images by November 13, 2026. The selection process prioritizes the program’s alignment with grant goals, applicant capacity, community impact, and commitment to sustainability.

Tips offered during online info session and in-person work session