Portland's Creative Placemaking Grant Program Opens
New grant program offers up to $30,000 for artists to create temporary installations and performances in Portland's emerging cultural districts.
The Portland Regional Arts & Culture Council (RACC) announces a new Creative Placemaking Grant Program, designed to activate underutilized spaces throughout Portland's emerging cultural districts. This initiative aims to support temporary art installations, performances, and interactive experiences that enhance community engagement and cultural vitality.
The program will award grants ranging from $5,000 to $30,000 to support projects that transform public spaces through creative interventions. Projects may last from one week to six months, depending on scope and scale.
Eligible Projects:
- Temporary public art installations
- Site-specific performances
- Interactive community art projects
- Pop-up galleries or exhibition spaces
- Mixed-media environmental works
Funding Categories:
- Small Projects ($5,000 - $10,000)
- Medium Projects ($10,001 - $20,000)
- Large Projects ($20,001 - $30,000)
Grant Includes:
- Project funding
- Marketing support
- Technical assistance
- Permit facilitation
- Documentation services
Eligibility Requirements:
- Artists or artist collectives based in Portland metro area
- Demonstrated experience in public art or community engagement
- Ability to complete project within 12 months
- Valid liability insurance
- Strong community partnerships
Selection Criteria:
- Artistic excellence and innovation
- Community impact and engagement
- Project feasibility
- Site appropriateness
- Budget management
Successful proposals will demonstrate:
- Clear understanding of placemaking principles
- Strong community partnerships
- Realistic timeline and budget
- Sustainable materials and practices
- Meaningful public engagement strategies
Application Process:
1. Initial concept proposal
2. Site selection consultation
3. Full proposal submission
4. Panel review
5. Final selection
This program represents RACC's commitment to supporting artists while creating vibrant, engaging public spaces throughout Portland. Special consideration will be given to projects that activate underserved areas or create new opportunities for community gathering and cultural exchange.
How to Apply
Submission Guidelines
Artists must submit a complete application through the Regional Arts & Culture Council (RACC) portal including: project proposal (max 2 pages), detailed budget breakdown, artist statement and bio, work samples (up to 10 images or 3 minutes of video), timeline for project completion, and community engagement plan. Projects must demonstrate cultural equity principles, serve underrepresented communities, and take place within Portland city limits. Eligible applicants include individual artists, artist collectives, and small arts organizations with annual budgets under $100,000.
Actionable Steps
1. Visit RACC's grants portal and create an account or log in to existing account
2. Review current grant opportunities and deadlines on the grants dashboard
3. Gather required materials: project proposal, budget, work samples, and artist statement
4. Complete the online application form including all required attachments
5. Submit application before the published deadline and await confirmation email
Application & Contact
Application URL: https://racc.org/grants-services/
Contact: Email: grants@racc.org, Phone: (503) 823-5111