Innovative Projects Set To Energize Portland's Central Eastside In 2025
Central Eastside Together, the Central Eastside’s Enhanced Service District, has announced the 2025 Better Together Grant recipients. The grant aims to foster an inclusive environment by supporting arts and cultural events, public installations, and District-driven projects that boost co-creation, economic growth, and a sense of place.
Now in its second cycle, the grant has awarded $43,000 to seven projects, with distributions ranging from $3-$8,000. Spanning comedy, cinema, markets, and food, this year's recipients have committed to strengthening the Central Eastside Industrial District (CEID) by activating public spaces, increasing foot traffic, and celebrating the District’s unique identity.
A selection committee of District business leaders carefully evaluated and scored proposals based on set criteria. The committee's selection of both existing and emerging proposals emphasizes the organization’s commitment to investing in projects that have the potential to catalyze the District and provide seed funding for new concepts.
“This grant cycle continues to show just how much creativity, energy, and entrepreneurial spirit exists in the Central Eastside,” said Brianna Woods, Director of the Enhanced Services District. “Each of these projects will contribute to a more vibrant, welcoming, and diverse district. We can’t wait to see the impact they’ll have on our community.”
The next Better Together Grant cycle will take place in April 2025 to fund events taking place between July 1 - December 31, 2025. For updates, visit Central Eastside Together. For additional information regarding Enhanced Services contact Brianna Woods at brianna@ceic.cc.
2025 Better Together Grant Awardees
Event: Portland Panorama Film Festival
Presented by: Portland Panorama, Particle Studios, Jupiter Hotel, and Hey Love
Date: April 10-20, 2025
Portland Panorama is a ten-day film festival highlighting the city’s most impactful cinema and media arts events. The festival features screenings, exhibitions, performances, and music, with two key events taking place this spring in the Central Eastside. More info...
Event: Down to Clown
Presented by: Jaja PDX, Jaja Circus, Dream Big City, and Fam Jam
Date: May 2, 2025
A celebration of local circus arts and creativity, Down to Clown PDX offers hands-on workshops, artistic exhibitions, and lively performances that foster inclusivity and education. The free event welcomes all to experience the magic of the circus arts.
Event: Portland Night Market, Spring Edition
Presented by: City Liquidators, AFI Logistics, Otro Lado Beverage Company, and Block Party
Date: May 2-3, 2025
Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the Portland Night Market is a signature Central Eastside event that showcases local businesses, artisans, galleries, immersive art projects, nonprofits, and more. This free event offers a unique blend of shopping, culture, and entertainment. More info...
Event: Souk of Cultures: A Culinary Mosaic
Presented by: Sisterhood Kitchen Collective & Honeybee Lemonade Syrups, Leslee Dixon Consulting, Mildred’s Sweet Treats, The Barrelled Bee, and Ecotrust
Date: TBD
This dynamic festival celebrates global cuisines and cultural expressions with a diverse array of culinary offerings, featuring Native American, Argentine, West African, Moroccan, Jamaican, French, Polish, Mississippi Southern, Asian, British, Hawaiian, and East Indian flavors. The event will also highlight cultural artisans and local performers.
Event: ADX Lot Transformation
Presented by: Art Design Xchange, KB+BA Architecture, Fox Fern Tattoos, and Alchemik Native Made Pottery
Date: Grand Opening June 6-8, 2025
ADX is transforming a 3,000-square-foot lot at SE 11th & Stark into a year-round outdoor community gathering space. The Grand Opening weekend kicks off with a First Friday gallery event featuring live music, crafts, and food, followed by a speaker showcase exploring the intersection of creativity and skateboarding, and a community art installation. This free event is open to the public. More Info…
Event: Thai Festival
Presented by: Yard Residences, Knot Springs, and Yokohama Skyline Eatery
Date: June 21-22, 2025
A vibrant celebration of Thailand’s rich traditions, heritage, and regional cuisine, the Portland Thai Festival invites the community to experience Thai culture through food, performances, and interactive experiences. This free event is open to the public. More info...