Better Together Grant Now Accepting Applications in the Central Eastside–$50K Available
Central Eastside’s Enhanced Service District is excited to announce the launch of the Spring 2026 Better Together Grant, marking the fifth cycle of the program supporting arts, cultural events, public installations, and place-based projects in Portland’s Central Eastside. The program is now accepting applications for projects taking place between July 1, 2026 and December 31, 2026. Applicants are encouraged to think beyond one- or two-day events, with proposals that have the potential to grow into annual traditions or signature events that embody the district’s brand and identity.
This cycle offers a total of $50,000 in funding, with individual grant awards typically ranging from $3,000 to $7,000. A Grant Review Committee of business leaders across the district recommends the awards, ensuring funding supports projects that are collaborative, creative, and reflective of the Central Eastside’s spirit.
“We’re excited to continue to support our local businesses through another Better Together Grant cycle," said Carolyne Holcomb, Executive Director of Central Eastside Industrial Council. “Past grant recipients represent the dynamic identity and diverse arts and cultural experiences that define the Central Eastside. As we open applications for Spring 2026, we’re looking forward to more partnership-driven ideas that help strengthen foot traffic and keep the Central Eastside active and connected.”
Eligible projects must be co-created and implemented by at least three businesses or organizations located within the boundaries of the Enhanced Service District. Funding may be used to expand existing initiatives or launch new ones, with special consideration for new or unproven ideas that often struggle to compete in other grant opportunities.
For questions or guidance on proposals, contact Jenn Rhodes, District Activation Manager, at jenn@ceic.cc. Applications are due March 25, 2026. Apply and learn more at: https://centraleastsidetogether.org/grant.
Celebrating the Impact of the Better Together Grant
The Better Together Grant supports a vibrant, dynamic community by funding projects that activate public space, increase foot traffic, and highlight the district’s unique identity. Through support for arts and cultural events, public installations, and district-driven projects that boost co-creation, the grant fosters an engaging and inclusive environment that promotes economic growth and strengthens a sense of place. The program provides financial, logistical, and promotional support to awardees, helping ideas move from concept to execution.
To date, the grant has awarded 17 projects totaling $92,000, supporting initiatives ranging from transforming parking lots into public spaces to film festivals, cultural celebrations, markets, and riverfront gatherings. These investments have both helped grow existing events and catalyzed new activations throughout the district.
Photo: Portland Thai Festival, supported by a Better Together Grant, energizing the district through cultural celebration.
Fall 2025 Better Together Grant Awards
Congratulations to all of the Fall 2025 Better Together Grant recipients! This past fall, Central Eastside's Enhanced Service District awarded $19,000 to support three unique activations across the district, including one new event and the continued growth and expansion of two district events.
Fall 2025 Better Together Grant Recipients
Void Tattoo Fest
Enjoy tattoo and arts culture in the Central Eastside with hotel rooms transformed into pop-up tattoo studios, a ballroom full of vendors and seminars, and a free street fair featuring local makers, live music, and community activities. Explore the festival, connect with artists, and discover nearby businesses and restaurants while celebrating the local scene.
Presented by: Jupiter Hotel & Jupiter NEXT, Hey Love, Coalition Tattoo Supply
Date: Friday, May 22–Sunday, May 24
Location: 900 E Burnside St. and E 9th Ave.
Skate.Create.Celebrate. Block Party
Celebrate Push Movement’s new location with a spring block party! Enjoy live music, art, skateboarding, food vendors, and family-friendly community fun in the heart of the Central Eastside.
Presented by: Push Movement, Ambient Magic Art Studios, PDX.Farm, Depave
Date: Saturday, May 23 | 10 am–7 pm
Location: 831 SE MLK Blvd.
Central Eastside Indigenous Marketplace
Explore a marketplace featuring handmade art, jewelry, crafts, and traditional goods, with interactive performances including Indigenous music, dance, storytelling, and a Native Drag Show. Connect with artists, enjoy the performances, and support Indigenous entrepreneurs while experiencing a celebration of culture and community in the Central Eastside.
Presented by: Portland Indigenous Marketplace, Killian Pacific, Kaleido Studio
Date: Saturday, June 6–Sunday, June 7 | 10 am–4 pm
Location: Electric Blocks, 1615 SE 3rd Ave.