Downtown Activation Subsidy Application (DPSC & CDA Activations)

Introduction

Do you have an awesome idea to activate public spaces in our downtown? Calgary Downtown Association (CDA) is seeking proposals from local businesses, individuals, and organizations to activate downtown for the months of June to September, 2023. CDA will provide funding of $1,000 -  $10,000 for approved projects. All proposed activations should be free to attend and family friendly. Activations can include: art displays, culture, music, dance, fitness, environmental initiatives, community and workshops.

Applications will be accepted until April 21, 2023.

Activations must be suitable for one of the following venues:

• Stephen Avenue (between 100 E – 300 W)
• Century Gardens
• Harmony Park
• Olympic Plaza
• Surface parking lot

Preference will be given to activations that are:

• Celebrate diversity and inclusivity.
• Show sufficient resources and capacity for producing a quality experience.
• Involve or support businesses in the area surrounding your activation.

Funding recipients will be responsible for:

• All logistical planning, coordinating, and implementation. You oversee managing all aspects of your event.
• Formal hazard assessment (we can supply template)
• Incident response plan (we can supply template)
• Marketing the activation
• A budget (we can provide template)
• $2M in general liability insurance
• Tracking and reporting attendance
• A post activation report must be sent upon completion of your activation.

Please note:

• Calgary Downtown Association does not require being your exclusive sponsor; we encourage you to seek additional sponsors and community involvement as needed.
• The subsidy is to assist with costs and may not cover all costs. The CDA will book a venue for your activation but does not provide staffing resources, equipment rental, or planning and logistical support.
• Applicants are responsible for planning and executing their activation from start to finish.
• A trailer stage can be provided at some of these locations, subject to availability.

A budget template must be attached to your application, you will have a chance to upload it in the form. Access to the template to be used is here.

Start your application here