Downtown Committee seeks applications for Syracuse Cultural Festivals Fund

SYRACUSE, N.Y. — Nonprofits that organize Syracuse festivals through the Syracuse Cultural Festivals Fund have until 11:59 p.m. on Oct. 11 to apply for available funding.

The City of Syracuse established the fund in “recognition that festivals and event programming contribute to a vibrant community,” the Downtown Committee of Syracuse, Inc. said in its announcement.

Those interested can visit DowntownSyracuse.com/syracusefestivalfund to learn more and download the application.

The money is intended to support nonprofit community groups in “delivering celebratory events centered on a specific theme” that are free for the public to attend (no ticket purchase is required), held in public spaces, and provide entertainment and/or activities for patrons.

Festivals that will be held between December 2023 and September 2024 are eligible for consideration during this round and applications may be submitted for grant amounts of between $3,000 and $10,000 per festival.

Applications will be reviewed based on several factors including how the festival or event attracts visitors to public spaces, increases the community’s awareness of a variety of ethnicities and builds appreciation for diverse cultures, and traditions, and art forms. Those reviewing the applications will give “additional consideration” to events that “create opportunities to celebrate the diverse fabric of our region and showcase the artistic opportunities found within our city,” the Downtown Committee said.

The Downtown Syracuse Foundation, Inc. administers the funds that are designed to reimburse organizers for eligible expenses associated with awarded festivals and events. 

Those interested must submit applications at least two months prior to the event or program date. 

The Downtown Committee will make additional rounds of funding available based on fund availability.