April 9, 2024
The City of Edmonton’s new Chinatown Vibrancy Fund is now open for applications. The grant program will invest $480,000 to support community projects to help build a vibrant, welcoming and inclusive Chinatown...
“The Chinatown Vibrancy Fund is a renewed commitment to supporting innovative, community-led initiatives that will create a lasting impression on Chinatown,” said Mayor Amarjeet Sohi. “We’re excited to continue working closely with our partners in Chinatown to support cultural events and projects in this historical neighbourhood.”
Proposed projects must show how they increase vibrancy in Chinatown while also aligning with one of the four development pillars of the Chinatown Strategy, a plan focused on Chinatown’s economic development. The pillars are:
- Improve sense of safety and security
- Focus on economic development
- Celebrate Chinatown as a destination
- Enhance built form and landmarks
"Chinatown is recognized as a significant cultural and economic hub in the city's core and needs additional targeted investment to support its growth and manage some social challenges,” said Sandy Pon, Chair of the Chinatown Transformation Collaborative Society (CTC). “Collectively we are making strides in making Chinatown a happening and inclusive place to visit and live in, where lights are brighter and little eateries never close. The CTC is extremely excited about the City of Edmonton’s Chinatown Vibrancy Grant for the region. Together we can make it happen!"
Since 2022, the City has invested over $1 million towards post-pandemic recovery efforts in Chinatown, including
funding for projects such as Chinatown Dining Week, the Chinatown Summer Festival and “A Portrait of Chinatown” film screening.
“Creating opportunities for these cultural events not only helps preserve the diversity of this culturally significant area, but also promotes job creation and economic development,” said Brett Latchford, Director of Strategy and Emerging Economy. “These funds will help support our partners and give Edmontonians across the city even more reasons to visit.”
To apply or find more information about the Chinatown Vibrancy Fund, visit
edmonton.ca/Chinatown. The program guide is available in English, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese and Vietnamese.
