2026-2027 Gritty to Pretty Grant Program - APPLY NOW!
For 2026, the program will once again offer the following grant streams:
- Open Grant
- Mural Grant
- Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour (BIPOC) Open Grant
- Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour (BIPOC) Mural Grant
- Façade Lighting Grant
All grant streams offer funding of up to $10,000 per project, and applicants may submit multiple applications.
Call for Creative Applications
We encourage artists, collectives, organizations, and property owners to think creatively and propose projects of all scales that enhance the downtown experience for residents, workers, and visitors.
While mural applications are encouraged, projects can also include innovative installations using windows, panels, lighting, projections, or other creative approaches—especially where traditional wall space may be limited.
Please note:
- Property owner approval is required for all proposed projects and must be included with your application.
- DHBC preselected placemaking opportunities will be announced and shared on our website in the coming days.
- If you have an idea but are unsure whether it meets the program criteria, we encourage you to reach out to discuss your concept.
Application deadline: Wednesday, April 30, 2026 at 11:59 PM (ADT)
Applicants are encouraged to include supporting materials such as concept drawings, renderings, examples of past work, and letters of support where applicable.
Open Grant and Mural Grant
These grants support placemaking initiatives that contribute to a more vibrant, welcoming, and visually engaging downtown. Open Grants are intended for creative public realm installations of all kinds, while Mural Grants specifically fund the creation of murals on building façades and other eligible surfaces.
BIPOC Open Grant and BIPOC Mural Grant
These grants share the same goals as the standard Open and Mural Grants but are dedicated to supporting BIPOC artists, collectives, and BIPOC-led, BIPOC-focused, or BIPOC-serving organizations. This stream was created to help address systemic barriers and increase the diversity and representation of public art in Downtown Halifax.
Apply for 2026 Mural Grant here:
Apply for the 2026 Open Grant here:
Façade Lighting Grant
This grant supports property owners and DHBC members in enhancing their building exteriors through creative façade lighting. These improvements help strengthen the pedestrian experience, improve safety, and contribute to a more dynamic nighttime streetscape.
Apply for the 2026 Facade Lighting Grant here:
If you have questions or would like to discuss a project idea, please contact:
jonathan@downtownhalifax.ca