City of Brandon and Brandon Downtown BIZ launch call for 2026 downtown outdoor art grant applications

The City of Brandon in partnership with Brandon Downtown BIZ is issuing a  call to artists, property owners, and community members to apply for the 2026 Downtown  Outdoor Art Grant. The current intake period is now open and will close on May 31, 2026. 

The Downtown Outdoor Art Grant is funded by the City of Brandon in partnership with the  Brandon Downtown BIZ, with additional funding from the Brandon Area Community  Foundation. This collaborative investment reflects a shared commitment to strengthening  downtown through creative placemaking and community-driven initiatives. 

Building on the strong momentum of last year’s program, the Downtown Outdoor Art Grant  continues to support creative projects that enhance public spaces and contribute to a  vibrant and engaging downtown.  

Applicants are encouraged to bring forward a wide range of ideas. Whether fully developed  or in early stages, the Brandon Downtown BIZ welcomes conversations with anyone  interested in exploring a potential project and can provide guidance throughout the  application process. 

“We’re looking for a variety of art forms to enhance downtown Brandon,” said Emmy  Sanderson, Executive Director of Brandon Downtown BIZ. “From murals and installations  to interactive and community-driven concepts, we encourage people to think outside the  box and propose all different types of art. It could be a sculpture, a light installation, or an  interactive display, which could be permanent, or temporary. We would also love to see  community members come together in partnership.”

In 2025, six projects were approved, with two already completed and an additional four  scheduled for completion this year. Community members can already experience the  impact of the program through completed works, including a mural on Compass Credit  

Union by Manitoba artist Nereo Zorro and a community art project led by local artist Chris  Reid at Samaritan House Ministries. These projects highlight how the program brings  creativity into everyday spaces while fostering community connection. 

The program has been widely embraced by the community for its positive impact. Funded  projects are helping transform underutilized areas into inviting, interactive spaces, while  also contributing to vandalism prevention and fostering a stronger sense of community  pride.  

“This program continues to demonstrate how public art can shape a more dynamic,  inclusive, and engaging downtown,” said Amanda Dupuis, Community Housing &  Wellness Programmer for the City of Brandon. “We’re excited to see what new ideas  emerge this year and to build on the success we’ve already seen.” 

The City of Brandon and the Brandon Downtown BIZ look forward to another successful  year of collaboration, creativity, and community-building through the Downtown Outdoor  Art Grant. Individuals with questions or project ideas are encouraged to reach out directly  to info@brandondowntown.biz.