Minneapolis Community Events Assistance Program

Meet Minneapolis is proud to administer the Minneapolis Community Events Assistance Program (MPLS CEAP) on behalf of the City of Minneapolis. This program is designed to support Minneapolis-based nonprofit organizations by providing financial assistance to help cover city-mandated service costs for community-driven events that enhance and engage our city.

With $760,000 in available funding, MPLS CEAP offers assistance opportunities for organizations committed to creating meaningful events that contribute to the vibrancy of Minneapolis. Events located in Minneapolis' downtown core and seven Cultural Districts are encouraged to apply.

The Minneapolis Community Event Assistance Program is funded annually and will accept applications on a rolling basis with decisions being made three times per year. Decision dates will be forthcoming soon; however, the evaluation committee endeavors to notify applicants within 30 days upon submission of the application.

Explore the program’s objectives, eligibility requirements and evaluation criteria below. For questions, please contact Ka Vang, Vice President of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Access at Meet Minneapolis at kav@minneapolis.org.

Apply for MPLS CEAP Funding Here

Objectives

  • Encourage and support diverse, community-driven events within the City of Minneapolis
  • Promote free and accessible events that foster inclusivity and community engagement
  • Assist in reducing the financial barriers for non-profits and event organizers by covering or subsidizing necessary city services
  • Increase the vibrancy of Minneapolis through public events that support arts, culture, and community well-being

Eligible Applicants

  • Non-profit organizations with a 501(c) determination from the IRS
  • Collaborations of non-profits or partnerships between non-profits and for-profit entities, provided the non-profit is the primary organizer
  • Preference will be given to organizations that have demonstrated a commitment to community engagement and inclusivity
  • Applicants must be located in or directly serve the residents of Minneapolis.
  • Applicants not receiving funding assistance through another City of Minneapolis or other public program may receive higher priority

Eligible Events

  • Events must take place within Minneapolis with a preference given first to the established hospitality core areas of the central business district, followed by the Minneapolis Cultural Districts, and then to other neighborhoods and areas of the city.
  • Events of all sizes are eligible, but preference may be given to:
    • Events that are free and open to the public
    • Events that span multiple days
    • Events that drive attendance and visitation to Minneapolis
    • Events that demonstrate cultural, artistic, or community-building components
    • Events that are locally owned or produced and incorporate local talent
  • Examples of eligible events include, but are not limited to:
    • Cultural festivals
    • Community gatherings
    • City-wide events and festivals
    • Arts and performance festivals such as film festivals, food festivals, music festivals, children’s festivals
    • Educational events
    • Public awareness campaigns

Eligible Expenses

Minneapolis Community Event Assistance funds may be used to offset the costs associated with services required by the City permitting process for events, including but not limited to:

  • Street closures and traffic management
  • Required event permits (e.g., temporary food permits, sound permits, and street-use permits)
  • Police or security presence for public safety
  • Fire and emergency medical services
  • Waste management and sanitation services (portable toilets, trash removal, etc.)
  • Signage and barricades required by city regulations
  • Equipment rental necessary for stages and/or production, including associated third party labor

Ineligible Expenses

The Minneapolis Community Event Assistance funds may not be used for:

  • Private events
  • Events primarily focused on fundraising for the organizing entity
  • Costs not directly related to city service requirements, such as marketing, entertainment, or venue rental fees
  • Salaries or stipends for event organizers or staff (MPLS CEAP funding may not exceed 50% of the overall event budget)

Evaluation Criteria

  • Community Impact: How will the event engage and benefit the residents of Minneapolis?
  • Activation: How will this event attract residents and visitors to locations in Minneapolis so that they enjoy the experience and engage in the city’s business community?
  • Cultural and Artistic Merit: Does the event contribute to the city’s cultural landscape and artistic diversity and how does it invest in the Minneapolis-based artistic community?
  • Inclusivity: Does the event promote inclusivity, accessibility, and community participation?
  • Feasibility: Does the event have a clear and feasible plan for execution?
  • Financial Need: Is there a demonstrated need for financial assistance to cover city-mandated services?