In 2025, City Council approved a Community Event Sponsorship Policy, which establishes a process for eligible organizations to apply for monetary sponsorship for community events. Eligible organizations include those that promote cultural, artistic, and athletic enrichment; create opportunities for community connection; and strengthen Louisville’s traditions and identity. Support offered includes:

• Monetary (with some use restrictions) sponsorship
• Marketing, such as promotion through one or more City communications channels and inclusion on the City’s calendar on the website. *Note, the City will promote all events awarded City-sponsorship.

Eligibility

To be eligible for sponsorship, the event must:

• Provide direct benefits to Louisville residents 
• Agree to promote the City’s sponsorship of the event
• Be open to the general public 
• Have the majority of the event located in Louisville
• Contribute to the economic vitality of the City
• *Note: City-awarded sponsorships are transferable only upon City review and approval.

Applicants may be non-profit organizations, neighborhood groups, or school organizations. Events must have proper permitting documentation and liability coverage. Events serving religious or political purposes are not eligible.

Deadlines

For events scheduled for 2026, deadlines are as follows:

• January–June 2026
  • Applications due: October 1, 2025
  • Council consideration: November 3, 2025
• July–December 2026  
  • Applications due: April 1, 2026
  • Council consideration: May 5, 2026

How to apply

1. Complete the Community Event Sponsorship Application form below. You will receive an automated email confirming that the City has received your application.
2. If the City Council approves your application, the City will reach out to you with next steps via email, at the email address you provided.