The City of Hamilton announces the Downtown Hamilton Creative Placemaking Grant, providing funding for new, community-led placemaking projects that temporarily animate outdoor public spaces in Downtown Hamilton. Applicants are encouraged to reimagine every day public spaces and propose temporary projects that are creative, artistic and innovative. 

Applications to the grant are due: February 24, 2026 at 4pm. 

A few quick facts:

• Placemaking is a hands-on approach for making a meaningful change or impact in a neighborhood, city or region. Placemaking interacts with the unique geography, culture, and heritage of a space and is a way for residents to feel ownership of public space and use it in a way that is specific to community need.
• Applications for the Downtown Hamilton Creative Placemaking Grant will be accepted from groups of residents and non-profit organizations.
• The grant program will support activities in outdoor public spaces within a defined area in downtown Hamilton. This area borders on Victoria Ave to the east, Queen St to the west, Young/Duke to the south, and Strachan to the north. Projects must take place outdoors on public property or private property that is easily accessed by the public and considered public space.

Funding will support:

- One day events  (such as performances, gatherings, workshops, concerts, etc.) Can apply for $500 - $5,000 per event.       

- Event series (a minimum of 3 dates for activities such as performances, gatherings, workshops, concerts, etc.) Can apply for $500 - $15,000 per series.   

- Temporary installation projects (such as wayfinding, murals, light installations, vinyl wraps, little libraries, etc.) Can apply for $500 - $15,000 per project.  

Approximately 7-10 grants will be awarded through this grant program. The majority of grants awarded will be $5,000 and under.   

Residents and groups looking to learn more about placemaking and the Downtown Creative Placemaking Grant are encouraged to register for the upcoming virtual Information Session:

Wednesday, January 21, 2026 at 1:00pm

To Register email: Claire.Calnan@hamilton.ca

Groups are strongly encouraged to contact staff and discuss their project details before submitting an application. 

Please contact Claire.Calnan@hamilton.ca or call 905-546-2424 Ext. 2036 to arrange a meeting or with any questions.

For more information visit: Hamilton.ca/PlacemakingGrant