DAV Arts & Culture Fund

Overview

The DENVER CREATES Fund provides grants of up to $10,000 to foster a thriving, inclusive, and resilient creative and cultural ecosystem in Denver. Launched in May 2025 by Denver Arts & Venues, this community-driven fund supports programs and projects that align with the DENVER CREATES cultural plan and contribute to the creative and artistic vibrancy of the city.

Key Dates

• Applications Open: August 13–September 14, 2026
• Information Session: August 19, 12–1 PM MST (online)
• Notifications: Mid-November 2026
• Disbursement: December 2026/January 2027
• Eligible programs may begin in August 2026, prior to award notification

Eligibility

• Cultural institutions, nonprofits (501c3), for-profits, educational institutions, neighborhood and community-based organizations, and individuals
• Must be regularly doing work within the City and County of Denver, or based outside but with programs in Denver
• Must be in good standing with Denver Arts & Venues (no outstanding payments, invoices, or grant reports)
• Registered businesses/organizations must provide a Certificate of Good Standing upon request

Eligible Programs

Both new and existing programs are eligible. Programs must take place in the City and County of Denver between August 2026 and December 2027, have a designated project manager, and align with DENVER CREATES goals in advancing equity and access, cultivating the cultural community, or supporting economic vitality. Applicants should consider accessibility for people with disabilities throughout planning, design, and implementation.

Eligible Expenses

• Planning, Design & Personnel: program management, staff, administrative support, community organizers, contractor and artist fees
• Professional Services: permits, consultants, insurance
• Materials, Supplies & Implementation: general supplies, equipment rentals (audio/visual, tents, tables, etc.)
• Community Engagement, Accessibility & Documentation: outreach, marketing, translation/interpretation services, printed materials, photography, videography, project documentation

Ineligible Expenses

• Activities unrelated to the approved program or that restrict public participation based on protected status
• Purchase of land, buildings, or facilities
• Routine maintenance, operations, or retroactive reimbursement
• Fundraising activities, cash reserves, endowments, or capital projects
• Expenses outside the funding period, re-granting, political campaigns, or alcohol

Grantee Responsibilities

Awarded grantees will work in partnership with Denver Arts & Venues to support successful program implementation, amplify awareness of funded programs, document outcomes, and celebrate community impact. Grantees must participate in a required onboarding meeting to review award requirements, funding process, program expectations, and reporting procedures.

Information Session

Denver Arts & Venues will host an online information session on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, from 12:00–1:00 PM MST covering the program's background, guidelines, and application process. Register to receive the Zoom link and recording.