The Downtown Syracuse Foundation's Cultural Festivals Fund Grants are designed to support the revitalization of Downtown Syracuse by funding festivals and event programming. This initiative aligns directly with the foundation's mission to conduct research, identify best policies and practices, secure resources, and implement programs and projects that contribute to a vibrant downtown. The fund recognizes the vital role festivals and events play in fostering community, elevating cultural and artistic expression, and making the city an attractive destination for residents, employees, and visitors, thereby supporting employer attraction and retention.
The target beneficiaries of this grant program are organizations that host celebratory, free-to-attend public festivals or events within the city of Syracuse. The primary impact goal is to enhance the vibrancy of the community by bringing people together in public spaces, increasing awareness of cultural and artistic assets, building appreciation for diverse cultures, traditions, and art forms, and showcasing artistic opportunities within the city. These efforts aim to create a dynamic urban center that attracts talent and supports economic growth.
The program prioritizes festivals and events that demonstrate a track record of growth or a clear plan for future growth. Key focuses for review include how the festival attracts visitors to public spaces, increases community awareness of cultural and artistic assets, builds appreciation for diversity, and creates opportunities to celebrate the region's diverse fabric. Events must be held in public spaces, be free for attendees, and provide entertainment and/or activities for patrons.
Expected outcomes and measurable results include increased visitor engagement in public spaces, enhanced community awareness and appreciation of cultural and artistic diversity, and a more vibrant city overall. The grant funding, ranging from $3,000 to $10,000 per event, is intended to reimburse organizers for eligible expenses, with consideration also given to direct vendor payments. The grant period targets festivals and events held approximately from September 2024 through September 2025. This strategy aligns with the foundation's theory of change, which posits that investing in cultural and artistic events will directly contribute to a revitalized, attractive, and economically robust Downtown Syracuse.
