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ActivateYYC - Calgary - Alberta - Canada
Open
Source verified June 19, 2026

ActivateYYC

Funding for creative public realm projects
Offered by
Federation of Calgary Communities
Official source: calgarycommunities.com
Funding available
$ 500 - $ 5,000
Deadline
Open continuously
Location
Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Who can apply
Community associations
See full eligibility

Overview

ActivateYYC supports community-led public realm projects with funding between $500 and $5,000. It funds creative street, mobility, placemaking, and tactical urbanism initiatives that make shared spaces safer, more accessible, and more engaging.
/100
Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.

At a glance

Funding available

Financing goals
  • Increase social or community impact
  • Raise awareness or mobilize a population
Eligible Funding
  • Maximum amount : 5,000 $
  • Minimum amount : 500 $
Funds Providers

Eligible candidates

Eligible Industries
  • All industries
Location
  • Calgary
  • Alberta
Legal structures
  • Non-profit
  • For-profit business
Annual revenue
  • All revenue ranges
Organisation size
  • All organization sizes
Audience
  • All groups
Non-profit candidates
Sector of operation
  • Economic, Social and Community Development
Target groups
  • General public
Revenue structures
  • All structures
Scope
  • Local

Next Steps

1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility

Activities funded

  • Paint the pavement and mural projects
  • Parklets and seating area activations
  • Block parties and open street events
  • Community art and sidewalk or boulevard installations
  • Mobility and placemaking projects that reimagine streets as community spaces

Documents Needed

  • Completed application form
  • Project idea description
  • Site photos, sketches, or mock-ups
  • Budget breakdown or cost estimate
  • Supporting files or precedents, if available

Official resources

Program guide

2026 Grant Guidelines

Eligibility

Who is eligible?

  • Community associations
  • Business Improvement Areas
  • Non-profits and charities
  • Local businesses working with a community partner

Who is not eligible

  • Local businesses applying without a community partner
  • Projects that are not open and accessible to the public
  • Projects that are not considerate of all ages and abilities

Eligible expenses

  • Creative street and right-of-way improvements, including materials and installation
  • Artist fees
  • Permitting and rentals

Ineligible Costs and Activities

  • Capital projects
  • Permanent infrastructure
  • Staffing, operations, and fundraising
  • Costs incurred before the application

Eligible geographic areas

  • Calgary

Selection criteria

  • Impact and accessibility for the broader community
  • Community support and engagement
  • Project feasibility and safety considerations
  • Creativity and innovation
  • Location and potential impact on the area

How to apply

  • Step 1: Review the grant guidelines
    • Check that your idea fits the program focus.
    • Review the project requirements before starting.
  • Step 2: Prepare your application
    • Describe your project idea and location.
    • Gather sketches, photos, precedents, and any supporting files.
    • Prepare a budget estimate or breakdown.
  • Step 3: Submit your application
    • Complete the application using the fillable PDF or Google Form.
    • Send your application by email or through the form.
    • Use the alternative method if you need assistance.
  • Step 4: Wait for review
    • The team reviews applications on a rolling basis.
    • You can expect a decision in about 2 to 3 weeks.
  • Step 5: Complete reporting after the project
    • Submit the final report form after the project is finished.
    • Provide receipts, photos, and banking details to receive reimbursement.

Processing and Agreement

  • Applications are reviewed after submission and assessed on a rolling basis.
  • Applicants are usually notified within about 2 to 3 weeks.
  • Not all applications are funded.
  • Successful applicants must complete a final report after the project.
  • Reimbursement is issued after the final report is received and processed.

Additional information

  • Only one active application per group is allowed.
  • A final report is required after project completion.
  • Projects must be completed and installed by October 31, 2026.
  • Successful applicants must provide a detailed budget breakdown before final approval.

Frequently Asked Questions about the ActivateYYC Program

What is the ActivateYYC?

ActivateYYC supports community-led public realm projects with funding between $500 and $5,000. It funds creative street, mobility, placemaking, and tactical urbanism initiatives that make shared spaces safer, more accessible, and more engaging.

How much funding can be received?

ActivateYYC Funds up to $5,000 of admissible expenses.

Who is eligible for the ActivateYYC program?

To be eligible for the ActivateYYC program, you must: Public realm project Publicly accessible and inclusive Applicant tied to a group or business

What expenses are eligible under ActivateYYC?

Paint the pavement and mural projects Parklets and seating area activations Block parties and open street events Community art and sidewalk or boulevard installations Mobility and placemaking projects that reimagine streets as community spaces

Who can I contact for more information about the ActivateYYC?

You can contact Federation of Calgary Communities.

Where is the ActivateYYC available?

The ActivateYYC program is available the province of Alberta.

Who are the financial supporters of the ActivateYYC?

ActivateYYC is funded by Federation of Calgary Communities