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Business Activation Fund
Transform your storefront into a destination during major, seasonal, and cultural events. Get up to $2,500 to design experiences that attract more visitors and make your business part of the celebration.
Apply Now
Applications are now closed.
Questions? Email Ingrid Valou, Manager, Economic Development, at ingrid@dtvan.ca.
Eligible Expenses
- In-store Experiences: Themed displays, interactive installations, and seasonal decorations that make your business unmissable during celebrations.
- Live Entertainment & Workshops: Talks, tastings, performances, limited-release products, or hands-on experiences that draw crowds and keep visitors engaged.
- Collaborative Projects: Partner with local artists, service providers, performers, or neighbouring businesses to create buzz-worthy experiences that benefit everyone.
- Marketing and Promotions: Targeted campaigns and promotional materials that help event visitors discover and remember your business.
Operational overhead costs – such as payroll or rent – will NOT be reimbursed.
Please note: The above list is non-exhaustive. Other expenses may be eligible if they meet the purpose of the Business Activation Fund.
Past projects funded through the activation fund
- Taylor Swift-themed cocktails, doughnuts, dance parties, and photo booths
- Screen-printing demonstrations and workshops for passers-by
- Menu updates and specials for Invictus Games
- Panel of Black filmmakers at Black History / Futures Month film screenings
- Business collaboration on a promotional pop-up timed for weekend of Just For Laughs, Fan Expo, and the Rugby Sevens
- Music showcase during the JUNO
Frequently Asked Questions
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- Downtown Van reserves the right to reject an application if it does not align with the purpose of the Major Events Business Activation Fund.
- Due to anticipated application volumes, Downtown Van will only be able to contact successful applicants.
- Any information you choose to share with us is strictly confidential and will be used purely for the purposes of this application.
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- Business and economic impact: Strategic business objectives, street-level impact.
- Project viability: The applicant has the staffing and expertise to deliver the project and is ready to begin the project upon funding approval.
- Project creativity and relevance to major and cultural events
- Marketing and promotion plan: The project will be able to engage or appeal to targeted visitors and the community
- Project timing: The project or activation is timely and takes advantage of major sporting, seasonal, or cultural events.
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- If approval from a property owner is required, a copy of the approval letter must be provided along with any applicable permits to Downtown Van when submitting other outlined required documents.
- Any required City of Vancouver permits must be issued before any activations or events begin.
