SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Title
Approve a High Impact Grant funding request from The Market Culture to support The Market Marie monthly artisan market at Coachman Park on the second Saturday of each month from June 2025 through May 2026, in an amount not to exceed $30,000 and authorize the appropriate officials to execute the same.
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SUMMARY:
The Market Marie is an established, high-impact monthly outdoor artisan market held on the second Saturday of each month from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Coachman Park (300 Cleveland St.), featuring over 130 local and regional small business vendors. Now entering its fifth season, the event has become a signature community and tourism draw in Downtown Clearwater, consistently attracting over 5,000 attendees per month.
The Market Marie has helped transform Coachman Park into a vibrant destination while supporting entrepreneurship and small business growth, aligning with the City of Clearwater’s goals to enhance economic vitality, increase community engagement, and promote downtown activation.
2025-2026 Market Dates:
• June 14, July 12, August 9, September 13, October 11, November 8, December 13
• January 10, February 14, March 14, April 11, May 9
Funding Request:
• Total Event Budget: $139,720.00
• Applicant Contribution: $109,625.40 (78.46%)
• DDB Funding Requested: $30,000
• Estimated City Fees: $19,080 ($1,590 per month as estimated by parks and rec. staff)
DDB Grant Request Policy:
Under Section 3 of the DDB Grant Request Policy for Community Event Funding, the proposal meets all criteria:
• Attendance: Estimated 2,000+ per month
• Accessibility: Free and open to the public
• Applicant Match: Exceeds the minimum 20% threshold
• Supporting Materials: Impact summaries and event history available
Staff Recommendation:
The request aligns with the DDB’s mission and the City’s Strategic Plan. Staff recommends approval of funding in an amount not to exceed $30,000 to support eligible direct costs and applicable city fees associated with The Market Marie’s 2025-2026 season.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funding for this grant will be allocated $10,000 in FY 24/25 and $20,000 in FY 25/26. Special Event line of the budget- 1829411-558600
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
2.3 Promote Clearwater as a premier destination for entertainment, cultural experiences, tourism, and national sporting events.
3.1 Support neighborhood identity through services and programs that empower community pride and belonging
