In an effort to encourage more events downtown, the Downtown Winnipeg BIZ has relaunched its grants program. 

The Host It Downtown grant has been offered by the Downtown Winnipeg BIZ since 2015 but has been revamped to meet the needs of the downtown community post-pandemic.

"When downtown is full of people, it drives economic activity. One of the ways to attract people to the city’s core is through events and unique experiences,” says Pam Hardman, Director of Marketing, Engagement and Communications for Downtown Winnipeg BIZ. “We hope this financial support will encourage more event organizers to choose downtown for their indoor or outdoor event.”

Through this program, grants of up to $20,000 will be handed out to non-profits, businesses and individual event organizers. It can be used to support new events, relocate an event to downtown or expand an existing event. 

Event applications will be assessed based on five categories: anticipated attendance, cultural representation, economic impact, event plan/program and financial need. Events must be open to the public and have more than one funding source. Preference will be given to events that are free to attend.

Application deadlines:

  • April 14, 2023 – for events occurring May 1 – July 31, 2023
  • May 31, 2023 – for events occurring Aug 1 – Dec 31, 2023
  • October 1, 2023 – for events occurring Jan 1 – April 1, 2024