Special Event Grants Program

The Downtown Development Board (DDB), a division of the City of Orlando’s Community Redevelopment Agency, offers the Special Event Grant Program to support nonprofit organizations hosting free, public events in the designated DDB Area. This program reflects the DDB’s mission to bolster economic activity in downtown Orlando by encouraging increased foot traffic to local businesses, hotels, and venues. Events supported through this program are intended to enhance cultural engagement, showcase the city's unique identity, and activate public spaces through inclusive programming. The grant program is strictly limited to nonprofit organizations that are formally registered with the Florida Department of State and have IRS tax-exempt status under Section 501(c). Eligible events must occur entirely within the DDB Area, offer free public admission, and demonstrate attendance exceeding 1,000 for general events or 5,000 for runs, walks, or parades. Ineligible activities include religious or political events, conferences, grand openings, classes, or networking functions. Additionally, applicants must not have any outstanding fees with the City of Orlando at the time of application. The program provides reimbursable grants, with funds available only after event completion and submission of thorough documentation, including paid invoices and insurance. Funding levels are capped based on estimated attendance. For general events: up to $5,000 for 1,000–5,000 attendees, up to $10,000 for 5,001–10,000 attendees, and up to $20,000 for events exceeding 10,000 attendees. Runs, walks, and parades with more than 5,000 participants are eligible for up to $5,000. All funds must be used toward marketing, equipment rental, or city-related fees. Taxes and other expenses are not eligible for reimbursement. There are two grant cycles each year. Applications for events scheduled from December through May are due by August 1, while applications for events occurring from June through November are due by February 1. All grant decisions are made competitively. Applications are first reviewed by DDB staff for completeness and compliance, then presented to a three-person Grant Review Committee. Evaluation is based on criteria such as past experience (25 points), event impact (15 points), marketing effectiveness (10 points), budget strength (10 points), and alignment with DDB goals (40 points). Events are expected to align with five DDB focus areas: economic vitality, cultural engagement, downtown appeal, collaboration, and activation of public spaces. Approved applicants must engage with the DDB’s Marketing and Communications Manager no later than 45 days before the event to coordinate sponsorship deliverables and ensure correct logo usage. Post-event requirements include submission of a detailed Event Summary Form within 60 days, including proof of conditions met, invoices, and payment documentation. Grants will not be paid if these steps are not completed. Questions about the program should be directed to CRAFiscal@orlando.gov, and applications are submitted through the Downtown Orlando Special Event Grants Program portal. The DDB reserves the right to amend guidelines or funding decisions at its discretion.

All applications must be complete, submitted on time, include branding coordination, and post-event reporting.