The competitive annual grant typically provides $3,000–$10,000 to Buncombe County nonprofit organizations producing free public events.

Applications for events taking place in 2027 will open September 14, 2026, and close October 13, 2026, at 11:59 pm.

For the 2027 calendar year, eligible events must take place on City of Asheville public spaces within the Asheville Downtown Improvement District.

ELIGIBILITY & REQUIREMENTS

Applicants must meet all of the following requirements:

• For the 2026-2027 grant cycle: Events must take place in City of Asheville public spaces within the Asheville Downtown Improvement District.
• The event producer must be a non-profit 501(c) organization that has been in operation for at least one year at the time of application.
• Organizations must maintain a physical presence in Buncombe County by conducting business and providing services there.
• Events must be admission-free and open to the public.
• Events must be permitted through the City of Asheville Office of Outdoor Special Events and take place in outdoor public spaces within the City of Asheville.
• Religious organizations or churches are NOT eligible unless the proposed event is presented outside regular worship services, serves the broader community, and does not contain religious content.
• Events must take place between January 1 – December 31, 2027.
• A final performance report must be submitted within 60 days of the event date or the last date in a series.

FUNDING PRIORITIES

Priority will be given to events that increase access to the arts, strengthen community engagement, and enhance the quality of life for Asheville residents through arts and cultural programming.

ALLOWABLE EXPENSES

Grant funds are restricted for the following City fees and charges, also outlined in the Non-Profit Fee Calculator. Please review the City of Asheville Outdoor Special Event Guide for details on fees. For assistance with determining allowable expenses and completing the worksheet, applicants are strongly encouraged to schedule a pre-application appointment well in advance of the grant deadline of October 13. Appointments may be scheduled with Jon Fillman, COA Office of Special Events Community Event Manager at the link provided in the worksheet.

• Application Fees & Alcohol Permit Fees
• Property Use Fees
• Street Closure Permit Fees
• Temporary Use Permit Fees (Structural/ Electrical/ Fire)
• Transit Impact Fees
• Barricade & Cone Rentals
• Parking Closure Fees
• Please note: No other City fees or non-City fees are eligible.