Activation & Event Grants

The Downtown Memphis Commission (DMC) offers Activation and Event Grants twice each year to support events and activities that bring people to Downtown Memphis, increasing foot traffic and vibrancy.

Grants are awarded in January and July based on when the event will take place. Please review the timelines below to determine when to apply and when you will receive a decision.

Right now, we’re only receiving applications for Events taking place January 1, 2026, through June 30th, 2026

Activation & Event Grant Submission Dates

Grant Award Months

January 2026
June 2026

Events Taking Place January 1, 2026 through June 30, 2026

Application Period
December 2025 through January 23, 2026

Notification Dates
Applicants will be notified of their application status between January 26, 2026 and January 30, 2026.

Events Taking Place July 1, 2026 through December 31, 2026

Application Period
Applications will open in May 2026. Please do not apply before applications open.

Notification Dates
Applicants will be notified of their application status between June 22, 2026 and June 26, 2026

Activation & Event Grant Purpose & Information

The DMC’s Downtown Activation & Event Grants offers funding for events/activations that recruit people into Downtown; utilize public, outdoor, or highly visible space; and provide a uniquely joyful experience in Downtown Memphis.

There are no restrictions on the type of activations/events we are looking to fund. Activations can be music, art, fashion, fitness, community-related, etc. All we require is that the proposed activations enhance our Downtown experience. We want to find new ways to bring more people into Downtown and support events that showcase Downtown Memphis true community spirit and soul.

Funding Amount - Grants are eligible for amounts between $150 and $2,500, depending on scope, concept, type of event, or activation.

Eligibility - Events must take place within Downtown Memphis and demonstrate a positive impact on community engagement, foot traffic, or local business activity in order to be considered for funding.

Evaluation
The Downtown Memphis Commission uses an Event and Activation Committee to review each application based on the information submitted. Events that meet the criteria listed below are prioritized over other activations and events. Please note that meeting all evaluation criteria does not guarantee receipt of an Activation or Event Grant. Grant awards are determined based on the evaluation criteria outlined below and the availability of funds during each grant cycle.

Evaluation Criteria
Location - Events held outdoors or visible from street level are given greater consideration during evaluation.
Target Audience - Events open to all ages receive greater consideration.
Cost to Patrons - Events that are free or low cost are given greater consideration.
Collaboration - Events that support other Downtown organizations or are produced in partnership with Downtown businesses are given greater consideration.
Visitation to Downtown Businesses - Events that drive additional foot traffic and visitation to Downtown businesses are given greater consideration.

What Happens After You Are Awarded a Grant

Once an applicant is selected to receive an Activation and Event Grant, the Downtown Memphis Commission will share an official award notification outlining the next steps.

At the time of approval 50% of the Grant amount is issued, and the remaining is paid after the event is over, upon submission of required documentation.

Grant recipients must include the Downtown Memphis Commission as a supporter/sponsor of the event marketing and promotional materials.

After the event or activation, recipients must submit a brief post-event report that may include attendance estimates, photos, proof of promotion, and a summary of impact.

Failure to meet reporting, branding, or compliance requirements may delay payment; remaining payment will not be provided until all documentation has been received.

We believe in building a Downtown for everyone and want to empower creative people with inspiring ideas, even if the idea is for a first-time event! We want to partner with you to make our collective Downtown more vibrant, engaging, and fun.

Want to do something really different? We are open! Want to gather people in a truly unexpected place? We want to know more! Have a great idea, but not sure how to make it happen? Share it with us – we might be able to pair you with another organizer who can help make your dream a reality!

If you have any questions regarding the Activation and Event Grants, please send an email to marketing@downtownmemphis.com.

You can also email the Vice President of Marketing, Milton Howery III howery@downtownmemphis.com.

Grant Application

Activation in Downtown Memphis - Learn More!

Past Event Grant Recipients:

Parks in Downtown

Parks In Downtown Memphis

Army Park – Ashburn-Coppock Park – Barking Lot – Bickford Community Center – Big River Crossing – Butler Park – Central Bark Dog Park – Chickasaw Heritage Park – Church Park – Court Square – Crump Park – Fourth Bluff – Greenbelt Park – Fourth Ruff Dog Park – Jefferson St – Handy Park – Health Sciences Park – Madison Ave Park – Martyr’s Park – MLK Riverside Park – Morris Park – Mud Island – Mud Island Dog Park – Navy Park – Ravine – River Garden – Tom Lee Park – Vance park – Wolf River Greenway

DOWNTOWN MEMPHIS/CBID BOUNDARIES

Memphis River Parks

Downtown Parks & Mobility Map

Activation and Event Grants FAQs

When should I apply
Apply during the application period that corresponds with your event dates. Applications are only accepted during open application windows.

Can I apply early
No. Applications submitted outside of the posted application periods will not be reviewed.

Can I apply for multiple events?
Yes. Applicants may apply for more than one event. If the event is a recurring series or the same activation held multiple times, only one application is required. Separate, unrelated events require separate applications.

What happens if my event date changes after I apply
Applicants must notify the Downtown Memphis Commission as soon as possible. Funding is contingent upon the event remaining within the same grant period.

Where must my event take place?
Events must take place within Downtown Memphis boundaries.

Are first-time events eligible
Yes. First-time events and first-time applicants are encouraged to apply.

Do I need permits or insurance?
Yes. Applicants are responsible for obtaining all required permits and insurance.

What happens if my event is canceled
Unused funds must be returned, and DMC must be notified.

Who do I contact with questions?
Email marketing@downtownmemphis.com or contact Vice President of Marketing Milton Howery III at howery@downtownmemphis.com.