Events and activities can bring diverse groups together; they bring us together. Events offer opportunities to share, celebrate, raise funds, promote causes, and to have fun. They create a sense of community by building social, emotional, and physical connections. When events happen, our city is vibrant, tourists visit, and our local economy thrives.
The City of Grand Rapids works with local organizers to generate vibrant, diverse events. We collaborate to make sure these special events are fun, creative, safe, and inclusive. Our goal is to boost the economy and revitalize the sense of community by supporting events.
This program will financially support events that encourage community unity and pride, and promote equity. We'll give particular funding consideration to events that impact equity. This includes diverse locations, vendor/artist/entertainer participation, cultural education, and more. For full program details, download the Special Events Sponsorship Program Policy linked to the right.
The Current Special Events Sponsorship Program application period is closed. Late applications will not be accepted/reviewed.
The next cycle will open in November 2022
for events occurring in January through June 2023.