Spring has finally taken hold in Brandon, and with it comes a fresh call for creativity downtown. The City of Brandon and the Brandon Downtown BIZ have officially opened applications for the 2026 Downtown Outdoor Art Grant, inviting artists, property owners, and community groups to help shape the look and feel of the city’s core. The intake window is open now and closes May 31, 2026.
The grant program is a partnership between the City, the Downtown BIZ, and the Brandon Area Community Foundation. Together, they’re investing in creative placemaking—projects that brighten public spaces, support local artists, and help build a more vibrant, welcoming downtown.
After a strong year in 2025, the program is once again encouraging applicants to think big. Whether someone has a fully formed concept or just the spark of an idea, the Downtown BIZ says they’re happy to talk through possibilities and guide people through the application process.
“We’re looking for a variety of art forms to enhance downtown Brandon,” says Emmy Sanderson, Executive Director of the Downtown BIZ. “From murals and installations to interactive and community‑driven concepts, we encourage people to think outside the box. It could be a sculpture, a light installation, or an interactive display—permanent or temporary. We’d also love to see community partnerships come forward.”
Last year, six projects were approved through the program. Two are already complete, including a mural by Manitoba artist Nereo Zorro on the Compass Credit Union building and a community‑driven art project led by local artist Chris Reid at Samaritan House Ministries. Four more installations are scheduled for completion this year.
City officials say the program is doing more than beautifying the downtown—it’s helping transform underused spaces, deter vandalism, and strengthen community pride.
“This program continues to demonstrate how public art can shape a more dynamic, inclusive, and engaging downtown,” says Amanda Dupuis, Community Housing & Wellness Programmer for the City of Brandon. “We’re excited to see what new ideas emerge this year.”
Anyone with questions or project ideas is encouraged to reach out to the Downtown BIZ at info@brandondowntown.biz before the May 31 deadline.
