Published January 14 2026
On the heels of last year’s successful pilot, the City of Bellevue is launching a second round of Community Programming Fund grants. These funds support free, community-led activities that help transform plazas, parks and other outdoor public spaces into welcoming, lively, well-used areas that encourage gathering, support local businesses and build community connections across the city.
“The Community Programming Fund is more than an investment in events – it’s helping our plazas and other spaces become community assets,” said Jesse Canedo, chief economic development officer. “Our guidelines intentionally keep a clear focus on economic vitality and visitor experience, while also welcoming first-time organizers who are ready to bring fresh programming to the Eastside.”
This year, the city has boosted program funding to $200,000, offering individual grants up to $20,000. The application period opened on Tuesday, Jan. 13, and extends through early March.
The program will continue to support a wide range of community-led activities, with priority given to small-scale activity series, markets and activities that will improve the visitor and resident experience during the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. Individuals, community organizations, nonprofits and small businesses that propose community-focused programming are all eligible to receive funds.
Last year, the pilot program helped to fund more than three dozen unique programs, two-thirds of which were brand new to Bellevue. Activities included salsa and line dancing at City Hall Plaza, a "Frunk or Treat” Halloween event featuring electric vehicles' front trunks, a bilingual story time at Ashwood Park and a large night market in the BelRed Arts District. Activities funded by last year’s grant are estimated to have reached more than 10,000 community members.
Prospective applicants can learn more about this year’s program and apply online at BellevueWA.gov/cpf. This webpage will also be used to share details about funded programs and activities later this spring.
For more information, contact Emily Sherman at esherman@bellevuewa.gov or 425-452-4270.