Peterborough DBIA Accepting Applications For 2026 Community Event Support Grants

The Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) is accepting applications for its 2026 Community Event Support Grant, announced on Tuesday.

Past grant recipients include the Neighbourhood Markets, Highly Likely Festival, Otonabeats Day Breaks and An Evening with Folk Fest's Emerging Artists. Photo courtesy of the DBIA.

The first deadline is March 8 for events taking place between April 1 and Sept. 30. The Sept. 8 deadline covers events from Oct. 1 to March 31, 2027.

According to the DBIA, the grant program provides financial and in-kind support to organizers hosting community-minded events in downtown Peterborough. Funding can offset costs such as advertising, permits, supply costs, administrative fees and rental fees. The number of grants awarded will depend on available funds and the volume of qualifying applications.

Local businesses, grassroots groups and organizations in Downtown Peterborough are eligible for grants. The DBIA says priority is given to events that reach diverse audiences, engage DBIA member businesses, drive foot traffic and tourism, bring economic activity to the BIA district and celebrate the unique cultures and identities of the downtown community.

All applications must include a detailed budget outline to be considered.

Applications are accepted twice a year. Following each deadline, the DBIA board will review submissions at its next scheduled meeting and notify applicants of funding decisions. Successful applicants can expect to receive funds within two weeks of their event date. Organizers requiring in-kind support should coordinate with the DBIA at least two weeks before their event.

“Our Community Event Support Grant is about more than funding — it's about helping event organizers bring their ideas to life in ways that bring real energy to our downtown core," says Nour Mazloum, Peterborough DBIA executive director. “Every event we support strengthens people's connection to downtown Peterborough, inspires new experiences and builds the kind of community that keeps people coming back.”

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