The City of Tacoma’s Events and Recognitions Committee (CERC) is now accepting applications for funding to support public-benefiting special events in 2026. This marks the fifth-year applicants will engage in a competitive process to receive funding for community events and the second-year event organizers may apply for non-monetary support through the City Event Services program. CERC, a council-appointed group of community members, acts as the review and selection panel, with applicants measured on merit, capacity, and community impact as well as how their event fosters access, opportunity, and belonging.
In 2025, CERC awarded $90,000 in funding to support 26 organizations in producing special events that enriched Tacoma’s communities. Tacoma Venues & Events (TVE) provides this funding through the special events grant program, made possible by revenue generated from Tacoma Dome and Greater Tacoma Convention Center events that is reinvested back into the community.
The City Event Services program provides access to City of Tacoma services and non-monetary support for community special events that benefit Tacoma’s diverse communities. More information on the City Event Services program can be found on the Tacoma Venues & Events website.
Applications will be accepted now through October 21, 2025, for events to be produced in 2026. Full guidelines and the funding application are available at tacomavenues.org. During the application period, staff will provide assistance to ensure all prospective applicants can successfully prepare their submissions. Informational virtual Q&A sessions will be held on:
• Tuesday, September 30 at 3pm – Register here
• Friday, October 10 at 11am – Register here
Staff are available to answer questions and schedule one-on-one consultations. For complete information or to request translation services, visit the Tacoma Venues & Events website.
Resources for Applicants
Tacoma Venues & Events offers SkillShops, a free workshop series designed to equip event organizers with tools and resources for planning and producing successful events in Tacoma. These capacity-building recorded sessions are available online and include resources, templates, and guidance on permitting, event safety, fundraising, sponsorship, budgeting, and access and belonging. Upcoming SkillShops include event marketing on October 20, followed by a session in November focused on volunteers, and “SkillShops Live!” coming in early 2026.