Downtown Action Fund recipients build a brighter downtown through community and creativity

News Release

Downtown Action Fund recipients build a brighter downtown through community and creativity

Forty-three community-led projects are filling the heart of our city with new energy, experiences and connection, thanks to the City’s Downtown Action Plan Fund.

Launched earlier this year, the Downtown Action Plan Fund is investing $3 million in projects led by businesses and organizations, including public programming, events and activations, placemaking, lighting, recreational amenities and more. Through collaboration with these dedicated community partners, the fund helps realize the potential of Edmonton’s downtown neighbourhood.

“The residents of downtown have benefited substantially from the multitude of fun, frequent and meaningful activations in the core,” said Cheryl Probert, President, Downtown Edmonton Community League. “The enhanced vibrancy and pedestrian traffic that the Downtown Action Plan Fund has enabled have had a direct positive impact on the vibrancy and economic success of downtown. Many residents have felt that the street-level entertainment and activities have contributed to a more metropolitan, international feel than we have experienced in recent history.”

One recipient was Purple City Festival, an all-ages underground music festival held September 11 to 13. With over 130 bands across seven venues, the festival drew more than 5,000 attendees during the weekend.

“Purple City celebrated its fifth year with its most ambitious edition of the festival yet,” said Ryan Rathjen, Executive Director, Purple City Music Festival. “Funding from the City of Edmonton allowed us to add 30 additional bands to our lineup and present five free showcases throughout the weekend. This support allows us to highlight Edmonton’s world-class arts community, attract new audiences downtown and contribute to the cultural vibrancy of our city.”

By fostering an environment where diversity and creativity can flourish, Edmonton’s downtown is growing into a vibrant gathering space  for people to connect, share ideas, and celebrate local arts and culture.

The City continues to invest in a people-first, sustainable downtown economy. This includes $380 million in capital projects such as O-day’min Park, Beaver Hills House Park, Michael Phair Park and Centennial Plaza, $14 million across 126 projects through the Downtown Vibrancy Fund and $22.9 million in housing developments to bring more residents to the core.

“Community-led initiatives are at the heart of downtown Edmonton’s continued transformation,” said Councillor Anne Stevenson. “Through the Downtown Action Plan Fund, we are empowering local organizers, artists and businesses to bring new energy and welcoming spaces to our city’s core. Every project supported by this fund helps make downtown a more vibrant, inclusive and thriving destination for all Edmontonians.”

The following funding has been awarded so far in 2026. Additional funding will be awarded as projects are approved. Full details and project descriptions can be found on the City’s website. 

Programs and Activations – Total sum: $1,741,765

Recreational Amenities – Total sum: $17,000

Placemaking and Beautification – Total sum: $235,635

The Downtown Action Plan Fund supports the goals of the Downtown Action Plan and the Edmonton Advantage strategy, ensuring Edmonton remains a top destination to live, play, work and invest.
For more information:
edmonton.ca/Downtown