The South of 6 Iowa City Business District has launched the So.6 Event Partnership Program, a new initiative aimed at helping residents, businesses and community groups develop public events within the South of 6 district.
“This program is designed to support people in our community who have great ideas for public events, maybe a street festival, a neighborhood market, a cultural celebration — but just need a little help getting started,” said Maurice Davis, executive director of the South of 6 Business District.
The program offers a three-year support model that begins with up to $2,000 in funding and hands-on assistance, such as permit support, flyer design and website setup. In the second and third years, South of 6 will scale back its involvement, helping organizers build independence while continuing to grow their events.
Applicants must propose public, recurring events that align with the district’s mission to promote community pride, inclusivity and economic vitality. Events must take place within the South of 6 district. The program is open to individuals, businesses, nonprofits and informal groups, a release stated.
The South of 6 is encouraging first-time organizers who may have lacked access to support in the past to apply – whether their ideas are block parties, youth talent showcases, food pop-ups or cultural festivals.
“We believe the people who live and work in South of 6 already have the ideas – they just need a little backing,” Mr. Davis said. “This program is about reducing risk, building community pride, and creating new traditions that reflect the heart of our neighborhood.”
Applications opened Aug. 1 and must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. Aug. 25. An in-person clinic will be held Aug. 14 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at Dream City, and a virtual clinic will take place Aug. 19 from noon to 1:30 p.m. on the South of 6 Facebook page.
Interested applicants must first schedule a conversation with Mr. Davis or attend the in-person clinic at Dream City to discuss their idea before submitting a short, guided application. Proposals will be reviewed by a panel of community volunteers and approved by the South of 6 board.
For more information, visit www.southof6.org/eventsupport.
