Special Events Grant Program

The City of Alameda offers the Special Events Permit Grant Program (SEPGP) to support high-profile events that require special event permits. This funding is available to events that include festivals, parades, and community celebrations that necessitate street closures or require the use of specialized City services. The program is designed to support events that enhance economic development, encourage inclusive community engagement, and promote a diverse range of arts and cultural experiences. Funding is allocated annually through a competitive application process, and grants are subject to the availability of funds. The maximum grant amount per event is $20,000, but the actual award amount may vary based on the specific event’s needs and available funding. The funds can be used for costs directly related to the special event permit process and associated City requirements, such as public safety, environmental stewardship, and other City services. Eligible costs include City staff time for processing permits, security services from the Alameda Police and Fire Departments, and technical assistance for event logistics. External costs, such as traffic control plans or waste disposal services, may also be eligible for funding. However, funds cannot be used for operational costs, event insurance, permit fees from other jurisdictions, or items sold at the event. Grantees will be reimbursed for eligible external costs upon submission of proof of payment and usage documentation. To be eligible, the event must occur within the City of Alameda between July 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026. The event must support at least two of the SEPGP’s goals and require street closures or City services. Events must also be on public property, and a special event permit must be required. The event organizers must be legally registered 501c(3) nonprofit organizations or 501c(6) business entities with a valid City business license. The application process includes submitting a completed application form, a draft map of the event’s layout, and documentation proving nonprofit or business registration. The SEPGP is offered in two rounds. Round One focuses on events organized by the Downtown Alameda Business Association (DABA), the West Alameda Business Association (WABA), and the City of Alameda, which have priority access to funding. Round Two opens to all other community events. The first round of applications is due by January 17, 2025, with awards finalized by February 10, 2025. For the second round, the application period opens in mid-February 2025, with the submission deadline on March 21, 2025. Grants will be announced by April 24, 2025, and events must take place between July 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026. Applicants must submit their applications electronically by the stated deadlines and include all required documentation. SEPGP applications are evaluated based on the event’s significance, organizational capabilities, and the ability to execute the event successfully. The evaluation criteria are weighted, with the event narrative and organizational capabilities each contributing 50% to the overall score. A minimum score of 7 out of 10 is required for funding consideration. Successful applicants must submit a final report after the event, detailing the event’s impact, attendance, and budget.