Due to the limited funding pool, each organization may submit one application per intake. However, your initiative can involve multiple locations, partners, sessions or program components.

Yes, you can apply if:

• The direct costs associated with implementing the enhancements of the existing initiative or the proposed new initiative are not already covered by other funding sources, including the Festivals and Events Subsidy Program (FESP), Festival and Events Subsidy Program Innovation Microgrant (FESPIM), Arts and Culture Microgrant, Downtown in Motion Grant.
• The enhancement or new initiative will occur on Sept. 1 – 30, 2025.

An enhancement to an existing initiative could include:

• Adding an extra day
• Expanding the footprint of your event
• Adding a new programming element, like an interactive creative activity or cultural workshop
• Collaborating with a new partner to enhance the initiative through new programming, help increase accessibility and visibility of arts and cultural groups, etc.
• Safety enhancement.

Yes, you can still apply for the Culture Days Microgrant. However, it only covers up to $5,000 for eligible expenses. If your project exceeds this amount, you’ll need to secure additional funding from other sources to cover the remaining budget. For example, if your project budget is $10,000, the Culture Days Microgrant can fund up to half of it. Please include all expenses and funding sources (i.e., other grants, sponsorships, donations, entrance fees, etc.) in your application. It will be seen favorably if this grant is not the only revenue source.

Events should be open to the general public and take place in visible, inclusive locations — ideally outdoors or in community-oriented indoor spaces. Invite-only or members-only events are not eligible. We encourage free or low-barrier access. If your event has a fee, you must clearly explain how it remains accessible to the public (e.g., sliding scale, low cost, pay-what-you-can, free for underrepresented groups).

Applications are reviewed by a committee, formed by internal City staff based on:

Additional funding opportunities that support arts and culture events, festivals and initiatives that enhance Calgary’s vibrancy, strengthen communities and enrich our city’s cultural landscape are available.