Most Arts & Culture funding programs can be combined but cannot be used to cover the same expenses.

The only exception is: The Festival & Events Subsidy Program (FESP), Festivals and Events Subsidy Program Innovation Microgrant (FESPIM), and Downtown in Motion (DIM) Grant cannot be combined with the Arts & Culture (A&C) Microgrant.

FESP helps subsidize City services whereas the A&C Microgrant can be applied more broadly to support eligible expenses for implementing your initiative.

Your Event Liaison can work with you to provide an estimate for City service costs to have a better understanding of the subsidy amount you can receive, which will help you determine which funding program is better suited for your budget. 

Some grant programs operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Funding is allocated to eligible applicants and initiatives in the order applications are received, until all available funds have been distributed. Applying earlier in the year increases your chances of receiving funding, if you meet eligibility requirements.

Other programs use a merit-based evaluation process. In these cases, applications are independently reviewed and scored by a grant review committee. Evaluations are based on:

• How well the initiative aligns with program funding priorities.
• The applicant’s ability to effectively deliver the initiative.

Funding is then awarded to the highest-scoring applications, until the program budget is fully allocated.

Payment is typically issued 6 to 8 weeks after you have signed and returned your grant agreement.

For FESP, the subsidy is applied directly to your City of Calgary invoice to reduce your balance owing.

Yes. In fact, combining Arts & Culture funding with other sources, such as federal or provincial grants, donations, sponsorships, or vendor fees, can strengthen the sustainability of your initiative.

However, each funding source must support different expenses. You cannot use multiple grants to cover the same costs.

No. Funding does not cover capital expenses (e.g., construction, permanent equipment) or ongoing operational costs (e.g., rent, staff salaries, utilities).

Eligible expenses include direct costs that support the delivery of your initiative. Most third-party contractors (e.g., audio/visual support, stage managers) are eligible.

Please note: FESP will no longer cover electrical expenses starting in 2026.

Funding is approved based on the initiative and budget submitted with your application.

If major changes are required during planning (e.g., scope, dates, budget adjustments), you must contact your Event Liaison or email us for approval.

No. Funding must be used only for the eligible expenses listed in your original budget and outlined in your grant agreement.

If you have unspent funds, please email us.