Central Eastside Invests Nearly $40,000 in Arts, Culture, and Community Through Better Together Grant
Central Eastside's Enhanced Service District is excited to announce six recipients of the Spring 2026 Better Together Grant, now in its fifth cycle and marking the largest funding round to date with nearly $40,000 awarded.
The Better Together Grant helps turn ideas into action. Grant funds help Central Eastside businesses collaborate to bring more foot traffic into the district, from day to night, by bringing their ideas for arts, cultural events, public space activations, and place-based projects to life. The program provides financial, logistical, and promotional support to awardees, helping ideas move from concept to execution. This round, applicants were encouraged to get creative, with proposals that have the potential to grow into annual traditions or signature events that embody the district's identity. Funded projects will take place between July 1, 2026 and December 31, 2026.
"The Better Together Grant is a reflection of what makes the Central Eastside unique," said Carolyne Holcomb, Executive Director of Central Eastside Industrial Council. “The ideas that come through this program speak to the bold, creative spirit of this community and the willingness of businesses to invest in one another and the district itself. We’re proud to support projects that strengthen connection, encourage collaboration and continue shaping the Central Eastside as a place where creativity and commerce thrive side by side.”
To date, the grant has awarded 23 grants totaling $131,450, supporting initiatives that include transforming parking lots into public spaces, film festivals, cultural celebrations, markets, and riverfront gatherings.
For more information about the Better Together Grant and upcoming events, visit Central Eastside Together at centraleastsidetogether.org.
For additional information contact admin@centraleastside.biz.
Urban Gleaners Summer Supper, supported by the Spring 2026 Better Together Grant.
Spring 2026 Better Together Grant Recipients
Funded projects take place between July 1, 2026 and December 31, 2026.
HappyLucky Presents: Certified Freak
Saturday, July 18 | 6 pm
Now Serving, 330 SE 6th Ave.
Now in its third year, this Pride block party is an immersive celebration of queer creativity. Reclaiming "freak" as a powerful expression of radical self-love and individuality, the night features interactive art, live DJs, drag performances, and more. All proceeds benefit Basic Rights Oregon.
Presented by: Happylucky, Vibrant Table, 1000 Friends of Oregon
Urban Gleaners Summer Supper
Sunday, September 13 | 4:30 pm
The Redd, 831 SE Salmon St.
Portland chefs take the stage for this outdoor tasting event featuring small plates crafted from gleaned and upcycled ingredients. Now in its third year, this celebration of culinary creativity and food waste reduction draws hundreds of residents and visitors to experience the district's vibrant food community.
Presented by: Urban Gleaners, Bauman’s Cider, The Redd
MusicCraft NW
Thursday, October 22 – Saturday, October 24
Jupiter NEXT, 800 E Burnside St.
The Central Eastside has long been a hub for music manufacturing, a place where craft and culture intersect. Combining international industry trade access with a public day of exhibits, demonstrations, and performances, this expo will showcase Portland and Northwest-made musical instruments and pro audio technology, highlighting creative production as a defining characteristic of the district.
Presented by: Jupiter NEXT Hotel, ADX, Benson Amps
Poniendo el Pueblo en Pan Y Pueblo
July – November
Pan Y Pueblo, 1015 SE Stark St.
This newly opened food cart pod serves as a hub for community and cultural celebration. Throughout the summer and fall, events include FIFA World Cup match watch parties, family friendly movie nights, a National Hispanic Heritage Month music and dance party, and a Día de los Muertos celebration.
Presented by: ChefStable, Dos Hermanos Bakery, Crazy Brothers Burgers, Fracture Brewing
6th Annual Central Eastside Muertos Celebration
October – November
El Centro Milagro, 537 SE Stark St. and Various locations
Now in its 31st year, this district-wide series of events honors Día de los Muertos through altars, performances, workshops, and bike rides throughout the fall. The celebration supports local businesses and artists while building community connection across the Central Eastside.
Presented by:El Centro Milagro, Cargo Inc., Bar Botellón
The Mud Room Mural Project
The Mud Room, 2011 SE 10th Ave.
From artist studios to the murals that define its streets, the Central Eastside has earned its reputation as Portland's Mural District. This project brings that identity to a new corner of the district, elevating the creative work happening inside The Mud Room to its exterior facade and adding to the growing collection of public art that makes this district unlike anywhere else in Portland.
Presented by: The Mud Room, Julz Clementine LLC, Laundry Studio