A new City of Hayward grant program helping businesses host events and experiences that bring customers in and activate commercial corridors. Now accepting applications!
What is Hayward Amplified?
Hayward Amplified is a new grant program from the City of Hayward’s Economic Development Division designed to support local businesses in hosting events and activations that bring customers in and create energy across Hayward’s commercial corridors. The program shifts away from City-led events and instead empowers businesses to design and host experiences that reflect their brand, attract new customers, and encourage repeat visits.
Through this program, selected businesses will receive funding and support to implement a series of activations, with an emphasis on creativity, feasibility, and the ability to generate foot traffic and community engagement.
Program Highlights:
- Competitive grant program for Hayward businesses
- Approximately $75,000 total program funding
- Up to five awards of approximately $15,000 each
- Supports business-led events and activation
- Focused on increasing foot traffic, customer engagement, and corridor vibrancy
What We're Looking For
Strong applicants will:
- Have a clear and creative event or activation idea
- Plan to attract customers and generate activity
- Realistic budget and execution plan
- Have a strong plan to promote and market the event
- Potential to bring energy and customers to a corridor Examples of events and activations
- DJ nights or live music
- Community meet-ups
- Influencer-hosted events
- Food or retail collaborations
- Art or creative experiences
- Themed pop-ups
- Anything you can think of that will bring customers!
- Creative concepts such as watch parties for popular sporting events, major games, or trending shows that bring customers together
Eligibility
- Business must be located in Hayward
- Must have a customer-facing storefront
- Hold a valid business license with the City of Hayward
- Be in good standing with the City of Hayward (no major code violations, unpaid fees, etc.)
- Must have the ability to host events or activations at their business location
How to apply
- Review program guidelines
- Complete the application
- Submit via email to economicdev@hayward-ca.gov
- Receive confirmation within 1-2 business days
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and funding will be awarded as applications are approved. Applicants are encouraged to apply early, as funds are limited and may be fully allocated before the deadline. The final deadline to apply is May 29.
Application Support Need help applying?
Workshops will be hosted online and in person. Recorded workshop available online.
Contact Economic Development staff for direct assistance.
Contact: Daniel Mao, Economic Development Specialist: daniel.mao@hayward-ca.gov
