FY '27 Festivals & Special Events Proposal Workshop (7.15.2026)

The City of Durham, NC held a FY '27 Festivals & Special Events Proposal Workshop on July 27, 2026, to discuss the Request for Proposals (RFP) process for funding cultural and arts-focused festivals and special events. The workshop detailed eligibility criteria, emphasizing that only nonprofits or those partnered with nonprofits can apply, and outlined the grant levels available ($5,000, $15,000, and $35,000). Key procurement-related topics included the removal of the Equitable Business Opportunity Program form requirement, the application timeline, submission procedures via Submittable, and the evaluation and contracting process. The city highlighted budgetary guidelines, allowable expenses, and the importance of demonstrating community engagement, economic impact, and organizational effectiveness. The workshop also introduced new application features such as tailored questions based on grant level and encouraged applicants to provide letters of support and optional attachments to strengthen proposals. The contracting process aims for full execution by December 18, 2026, with provisions for early disbursement of up to 50% of awarded funds upon contract execution and proper documentation. Questions from attendees clarified eligibility, funding percentages, and coordination with other city programs like Durham Next.