Grants of up to $8,000 are now available for anyone interested in hosting an event in downtown Windsor.
The Downtown Windsor Business Improvement Association is offering the grants to public events that highlight music, art, food, or cultural celebrations.
"We don't want to stifle anybody's creativity or enthusiasm. We just want to sit down and talk with people who are interested about putting on events and then see how we can work together to tailor the events so that it is great for downtown, great for the event organizer and great for our businesses," said Chris MacLeod, DWBIA chair.
The DWBIA is looking to support around six to eight events throughout the year. In addition to the funds, it will also offer assistance with permitting, licensing, and promotion through the DWBIA’s marketing channels.
MacLeod indicated there is no strict criteria for the events.
"Where does the event fall into our schedule, and then what is the event? Do we think that it is going to be something that is going to draw people downtown? Ultimately, it has to achieve the goal of bringing people into our core to support our businesses," said MacLeod.
Applications are open until May 15, 2025. More information can be found on the DWBIA website.