Next round of Chinatown revitalization funding now open to applications

A fund meant to enhance Edmonton's Chinatown is now accepting applications for 2026.

Nearly half a million dollars is now up for grabs for Chinatown revitalization projects.

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The $480,000 is available through the Chinatown Vibrancy Fund, which was created by the city in 2024 to support the neighbourhood in drawing more visitors and business, developing housing and increasing safety.

Over the past two years, 28 projects like food tours, murals, festivals and cultural experiences have received grant funding, including culinary experience Chinatown Chow Down.

“A quarter of our participants of this project in the first season of attending, they said this was their first time coming to Chinatown ever,” said the project’s creator Linda Hoang at a news conference on Tuesday.

“This project, funded through the city program, was the nudge that they needed to come into this neighbourhood.”

She said Chinatown Chow Down has introduced hundreds of people to Chinatown’s restaurants but, more importantly, encourages people to return year round.

“We see all that difference,” said Sandy Pon, chair of the Chinatown Transformation Collaborative (CTC). “Our businesses tell us that their business has increased by 100 per cent, or 150 per cent and now they’re opening longer hours.”

Alongside work with other government and social agency partners to increase safety and add housing, Pon sees the fund as integral to making Chinatown a place people want to visit.

About social disorder, Pon said, “It’s a community approach, working with Edmonton Police Service and also with bylaw (in) more of a compassionate way. But at the same time, we do practice a little tough love. When people cannot help themselves, we have to step up. It takes a village.”

The mayor agrees that the investment has had a visible impact in Chinatown.

According to city data, Chinatown hosted 16,000 visitors in 2025.

“To everyone else who’s considering applying this year, we truly look forward to seeing your vision. We want to hear those ideas and see those great opportunities because together, we are building a Chinatown that is vibrant, connected and celebrated.”