The Syracuse Cultural Festivals Fund was established in recognition that festivals and event programming contribute to a vibrant community. By bringing people together in our public spaces, we are able to elevate the platform on which traditions, culture and artistic expression (visual, performance) are experienced. Arts and culture contribute to a vibrant city, alive with arts, entertainment, and cultural experiences, making it an attractive destination for residents, employees and visitors. Vibrant urban centers serve as talent attractors and support employer attraction and retention.
The Downtown Syracuse Foundation will administer the Syracuse Cultural Festivals Fund, established by the City of Syracuse and the Syracuse Common Council. The funding is designed to reimburse organizers for eligible expenses associated with awarded festivals and events. Consideration may also be given to direct payment to vendors for eligible services rendered. Funding is intended for festivals and events that will be held from approximately September 2024 through September 2025. Applications may be submitted for grant support between $3,000 and $10,000 per event and will be reviewed based on a number of factors, including how the festival or event attracts visitors to public spaces, increases the community's awareness of cultural and artistic assets, builds appreciation for a diversity of cultures, traditions and art forms, and/or creates opportunities to celebrate the diverse fabric of our region and showcase the artistic opportunities found within our city.
Festivals or events eligible for funding are intended to be celebratory events centered on a specific theme that are free for the public to attend (no ticket purchase is required or involved), held in public spaces, and provides entertainment and/or activities for patrons. Supported festivals will be able to demonstrate a track record of growth and/or a plan for future growth.
Be a certified not-for-profit 501c3 or 501c4 entity, or demonstrate an existing working relationship with an established not-for-profit fiscal agent.
Submit applications at least two (2) months prior to the event date
Provide information such as date, location, and a description of the event
Provide information regarding how the event will be promoted, sources of additional funding, expenses and the grant amount requested from the Downtown Syracuse Foundation
Please note, to be eligible for consideration, the event must be held within the city of Syracuse and may not involve ticket sales.
Please note that any previously awarded Syracuse Cultural Festivals Fund grantees with events held in September 2024 are not eligible to apply for grant support for a September 2024 event.
Applications opened Tuesday, July 23, 2024, and will be accepted based on the timelines noted below. Event organizers are strongly encouraged to submit an application by August 20, 2024, to receive the most favorable opportunity for funding consideration, as awards will be made based on funds available.
Round 1 of funding: Applications are due by 11:59 pm on Tuesday, August 20, 2024. Notifications week of September 9, 2024.
Round 2 of funding*: Applications are due by 11:59 pm on Tuesday, November 5, 2024. Notifications week of November 25, 2024.
Round 3 of funding*: Applications are due by 11:59 pm on Tuesday, January 28, 2025. Notifications week of February 10, 2025.
*Pending funding availability after Round 1 has been allocated.
Applications will be accepted and reviewed until funds are expended. Please note that Round 2 and/or Round 3 funding is contingent upon funding availability.
Applications may be submitted for amounts between $3,000 and $10,000.
The Downtown Syracuse Foundation will notify applicants and announce fund distributions within the notification week noted above.
