Downtown Public Art Grant Program

Program Details

Program Goal
The Downtown Mural Grant Program will support public art projects that enhance the visual appeal of our downtown district, strengthen community pride, and create new attractions that encourage residents and visitors to explore local businesses.

Why Murals Matter
Murals are a proven tool for downtown revitalization and tourism promotion. Communities across the country are using public art to create walkable downtown experiences, increase social media visibility, and attract visitors.

Murals also support local artists while improving the appearance of business districts and underutilized walls.

Program Structure
The Devils Lake Convention & Visitors Bureau will administer a matching grant program to fund public murals in the downtown district.

Total Program Budget | $15,000 – $20,000

Grant Structure | 50/50 matching grants

Maximum Grant | Up to $5,000 per project

Expected Projects | 5–8 murals throughout the downtown district

Economic Impact
Because grants require a 50% match from property owners, this program will generate an estimated $30,000 – $40,000 in total investment into downtown beautification.

Benefits to the Community

Improves downtown appearance
Encourages tourism and photo sharing
Supports local artists and creative businesses
Increases foot traffic for downtown merchants
Strengthens community pride and identity

Tourism Opportunity
Completed murals will be promoted through the creation of a Downtown Mural Walk, including a digital map and social media promotion.

This initiative positions Devils Lake as a vibrant destination for visitors while supporting long-term downtown revitalization.

Administration
The Devils Lake CVB will manage applications, coordinate the selection committee, and promote completed projects through tourism marketing channels.

Recommendation
Approve the launch of the Downtown Mural Grant Program to start in April 2026 and will run until funds are no longer available.

Eligible Applicants

Downtown property owners
Downtown businesses (with property owner approval)
Nonprofit organizations located downtown

Eligible Projects

Projects must:

• Be located within the designated downtown district
• Be visible to the public
• Be painted on an exterior wall or approved public structure
• Be completed by a qualified artist or muralist

• Existing Mural restoration and enhancement projects

Ineligible Projects:

• Temporary artwork
• Signage or advertising murals
• Murals on non-public facing walls
• Projects already completed before approval

Selection Criteria

Applications will be evaluated based on:

*Criteria*	*Weight*
Artistic quality	High
Visibility to public	High
Contribution to downtown beautification	High
Community or cultural relevance	Medium
Feasibility and budget	Medium

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit:

• Application form
• Mural concept or sketch
• Artist information
• Project budget
• Property owner permission
• Proposed project timeline

Application Form

Download the application