Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. (DGRI) is seeking activation proposals for temporary public art installations to be hosted Downtown from January 6, 2023, through March 5, 2023, during the World of Winter festival.

Successful proposals will be funded through DGRI’s Activate Grant program. The program is making $150,000 available for projects that will activate Downtown public spaces. Individual projects can seek up to $10,000 each.

The World of Winter festival exists to celebrate our four-season city and engage the community with creative art, events and outdoor activities during Michigan’s wonderful wintertime.

In 2022, the World of Winter festival hosted 80 events, 37 installations and welcomed over 400,000 visitors and residents to Downtown Grand Rapids (see the festival recap video here).

Things To Remember

Installations must be able to withstand Michigan winter weather conditions. Proposals will be reviewed by a committee comprised of DGRI staff, City of Grand Rapids representatives, and other stakeholders. Proposal that incorporate interactive elements, as well as light components for nighttime enjoyment, are encouraged.

DGRI staff has identified potential locations for installations illustrated in the document below, but applicants and proposals are not limited to these locations.

How To Apply

Application instructions are included in the document below. Applicants are asked to complete a short questionnaire, provide a resume or CV describing their relevant experience, images illustrating their work and a few other related items.

Applications will be accepted through September 25, 2022.

Any questions or requests for more information can be directed to Katie Moore, DGRI Activation Manager, at kmoore@downtowngr.org or 260.402.2485.

Application and Information

Activate Grant 2023 Application

Activate Grant 2023 Locations