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.

Downtown Van also offers additional grants through our:

Activities we support

• 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. 

Who is eligible?

You must be a Downtown Van member (apply here) with a street-level business in a commercial building located within the Downtown Van boundaries.

What is eligible?

• Project enhances customer experience during seasonal, sporting, or major events
• Projects that can be completed by February 15, 2026

Projects that received funding in 2024-2025 included:

• 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 JUNOs

1. Plan your project, including budget and timeline.
2. Apply online now – reviewed first-come, first-served.
3. Application is reviewed and approved.  You must receive approval before starting any work. 
4. Sign the Business Activation Fund Letter of Agreement – within 14 days once approved.
5. Execute your project.
6. Submit receipts, photos, and all invoices – due February 15, 2026.
7. Receive your reimbursement cheque.

Act fast: Applications close November 15, or when funding runs out.

Apply Now

Visit here to access the application form and full program details.

FAQs:

General

• 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.

Selection criteria

• 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.

Permits and regulations

• 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.

Ready to make your mark during the next big event? Contact Ingrid Valou at ingrid@dtvan.ca