As the lead convener, activator, and advocate shaping Downtown Edmonton’s future, the Edmonton Downtown Business Association (EDBA) works to support an evolving, inclusive, prosperous, and resilient downtown economy rooted in a vibrant and remarkable downtown experience. Part of this work includes supporting public events downtown and a range of other economic development activities.
All EDBA grants & funding opportunities are designated for projects in the BIA catchment. View the City’s map (PDF) for details. Here are a few highlights of our grants & funding opportunities.
Downtown Retail Project – an incentive for retailers to expand into the downtown area. The Edmonton Downtown Business Association with Avison Young will help with initializing, marketing, operating and supporting up to six businesses in their long-term commitment to downtown. Retail business owners and property owners are encouraged to read the brochures below.
Updated Nov. 4, 2023: The second round of applications are now closed.
Information for retailers:
Information for property owners:
Downtown Patio Grant – A grant to help businesses with the cost of installing a new patio or making improvements to existing patios. Patio Grant applications are now closed. [Updated April 2024].
Festivals & Events Grant Program – The Downtown Festivals and Events Grant program supports both small-scale events and large festivals operated by not-for-profit arts organizations, community groups and Downtown businesses. Applications for 2024 are now open. Apply here.
Application deadlines
March 1 for events January 1 to June 30, 2024
May 1 for events July 1 to August 31, 2024
June 15 for events September 1 to December 22, 2024
Downtown Vibrancy Fund – This City of Edmonton grant supports businesses and organizations in launching new initiatives, events, and/or programs that promote vibrancy in the Downtown core. The Edmonton Downtown Business Association is a core partner of this grant. The 2024 Downtown Vibrancy Fund application form is now open.
Business Adaptation and Revitalization Program – The Business Adaption & Revitalization Program connects Downtown small business owners to marketing support and other business expertise, along with direct financial support for investments in business improvements, to help them adapt their business to the ever-changing post-COVID economic landscape. Interested businesses can complete the application form here.