Start-Up Event Grant
The Start-Up Event rant has transitioned to a rolling application cycle which means there is no deadline. However, we recommend applying 3-6 months prior to your event to ensure adequate time for the grant process and event planning
The Rochester Downtown Alliance (RDA) is accepting applications for the Start-Up Event Grant, which funds new events, fresh ideas, and exciting programs that will encourage community and business engagement in downtown Rochester. It is important to note that this grant is a partial reimbursement-based grant. Award funding will be distributed half upfront and half post-event.
This grant focuses on partnering with individuals/community organizations to build sustainable and effective events that align with RDA’s mission “to create, enhance, and promote a downtown experience that is welcoming, fun and livable,” and engage a range of cultures, ages, and backgrounds.
Check out our Application Guide for more information.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What Kind of events is RDA looking for?
The Start-Up Event Grant plays an important role in inspiring events that help meet the needs of downtown in any given year. In 2025, we are especially looking for applications that:
- Interest in partnering with RDA in event execution
- Engage/support current downtown businesses by increasing foot traffic and driving commerce
- Activations of unique and unused spaces
- Events anticipating large attendance with high community impact.
- Take place on evenings and weekends.
- Events kept free and open to the public.
- Events during Winter months
What is different about the application process this year?
RDA has made some changes for this grant program to better focus on partnership and event sustainability in Downtown Rochester.
- The application process has transitioned to a rolling cycle. This is to create greater flexibility for applications all throughout the year.
- There is no longer a cap on how many years an applicant can receive funding. All 2nd year and beyond applicants must demonstrate their ability to find matching funds to their RDA grants.
- Another focus this year is on partnership. We are looking for applicants excited in partnering with our team. We want to be a resource for your questions, share our event organizing knowledge, and help promote. Please see our RDA Grant Mentorship/Education Example timeline.
Who can apply?
Any individuals, businesses, community groups, and organizations may apply.
When and Where do they need to take place?
Transitioning to a rolling application cycle means the event can take place at any time. We recommend applying 3-6 months prior to the event to ensure adequate time for the grant process and event planning. The event may be hosted at any indoor or outside venue within the downtown special service district (SSD).
What if I've done my event before but it was not funded by this grant? Can I apply for this grant again if I've already received this grant before?
First Year Recipients: If this will be the first time applying for RDA Event Grant funding, you may use it as your sole source of funding. This includes events that may have been done before but have never been funded by this grant.
Second Year and Up Recipients: Second year and above recipients must demonstrate their ability to find matching funds to their RDA grant. There is no longer a cap on how many years you may receive funds from this grant. The objective is to facilitate the development of sustainable and repeatable events in Downtown Rochester.
What is the timeline for grant applications?
- Application is received
- The Grant team meets once a month. Please account for 10 business days for a response to your application.
- If interested, the RDA grant team will invite you to an in-person interview to discuss your event.
- Within 72 hours post-meeting, you will receive an award notification.
What is the Application Process?
There are two stages to the application review process:
Stage 1: Complete the online application with all required documents including:
- Submit Your event, activity, or program budget that shows both expenses and anticipated revenue and/or in-kind contributions including requested amount from RDA (include permitting expenses)
- Submit Your Marketing plan
- Submit Inspiration photos, site plan, or drawing
Stage 2: RDA Grant Team Interview
Applications will be reviewed, and a selection of applicants will participant in the second stage of the application process.
You will sit down with the RDA Grant Team and discuss your event proposal. This allows the panel to ask follow-up questions to learn more about your event details. This presentation will be done in a private conference room with just your organizer team and the RDA team.
How will my event be evaluated?
Applications will be evaluated based on:
- Does your event meet the grant’s requirements?
- Is the budget achievable and realistic to the timeline?
- Does your event align with the RDA grant priorities?
- Do you demonstrate interest in partnering and evidence of capacity to execute the event?
- Is your event unique? Is it a new or fresh event that adds variety to the downtown experience?
- Does your event drive foot traffic and increase commerce downtown?
- Does your event involve, represent, or invite a range of cultures, ages, and backgrounds to experience downtown?
What if I am new to event planning?
Great, please apply! We are here to help with education and mentorship. Click here to access our Event Planning Guide to help you plan your next event downtown.
Questions?
Contact the Rochester Downtown Alliance at info@downtownrochestermn.com or 507-216-9882.