UBC Connects at Robson Square
program application form
Get $5,000, plus promotional and logistical support to
bring your event to life at UBC Robson Square.
Program update – new applications paused
Thank you for your interest in hosting your next event at UBC Robson Square through the UBC Connects program. We are delighted to see such enthusiasm to engage in innovative, public engagement programming at our vibrant venue in downtown Vancouver.
Due to the overwhelming response and popularity of this program, all available funds have been allocated to support various events and activities scheduled until March 2024.
Therefore, as of August 2, 2023, we are pausing our new application intake.
If you have already submitted an application
We will carefully review and process it according to the established guidelines and funding criteria. Applicants who have been approved for funding will be notified separately.
If you are looking for other funding
If you have a great idea for a public event there are other opportunities and funding sources to consider:
- For UBC students and residents, view available grants for community projects and check out UTown Community Grants.
- UBC faculty members may find faculty-specific resources available through initiatives like the Public Humanities Hub or Science’s Strategic Innovation Fund.
- Both larger and smaller funding opportunities for community-UBC collaborations are available through the Partnership Recognition and Exploration Fund and the Community-University Engagement Support Fund.
If you would like to host your event at UBC Robson Square
Funding is currently closed but that doesn’t mean you can’t still program your public engagement event downtown at UBC Robson Square! With flexible space, customized catering, A/V equipment and full-service support to meet your needs, the team of event professionals at UBC Robson Square is available to help you with your event planning and booking. Discounts available for charitable organizations and UBC units.
About the program
UBC Connects at Robson Square is a two-year pilot program that provides funding and staffing support for equitable knowledge exchange between UBC and the public in downtown Vancouver.
Who can apply
This initiative is open to UBC students, faculty, staff and alumni, as well as community partners who are working in collaboration with UBC.
Deadlines
New applications are now paused.
(Last updated: August 2, 2023)
Criteria and review process
All events supported by this program are required to be free and open to the public to support equitable access to knowledge and maximize public engagement.
A review committee consisting of students, faculty, staff and community members will evaluate each application based on the key criteria listed below.
- Engagement: Programming should have a balance of participants that are both from the general public and part of the UBC community. All events that will be funded and supported by this program should be of interest to and designed for both public and UBC audiences.
- Relevance: Programming should increase public exposure to faculty-based knowledge and research and show UBC’s value as a thought leader on pressing societal issues. Program should be accessible and relevant to members of the general public who may not have specialized academic knowledge.
- Program Feasibility: The goals and intended impact of your event should be clearly outlined. We will also be assessing the logistical feasibility of your application in regard to your budget, scheduling dates, suitability of the venue, etc.
In addition to the above, a minimum of three events per application cycle that align with one or more of UBC’s presidential priorities in 2022 will be accepted. These three priorities are: a) Indigenous engagement and Reconciliation b) antiracism and equity, diversity and inclusion and c) climate change, climate justice, and sustainability. While we are prioritizing events that meet UBC’s presidential priorities, we are open to events of all themes and topics.
You can preview the application questions here (PDF).
Funding
Costs for the rental of space at UBC Robson Square, including in-house A/V equipment and staffing of up to $2,000, will be covered. In addition, successful applications will be provided with up to $5,000 to cover additional event organizing costs. Some examples include:
- External speaker fees
- Honoraria, stipends, and community compensation
- Marketing and promotions
- Equipment/supplies
- Furniture rentals
- Transportation or delivery costs
- Publications and printing materials
- Catering
Expenses and activities that we do not cover include, but are not limited to:
- Alcoholic beverages
- Hiring UBC students
- Payment of UBC salaries or wages
- Fees for UBC faculty, students, or staff to attend events, conferences, etc.
- Core operational costs for community organizations
- Projects outside of Canada
Find details about Robson Square’s facilities (including photos) and services here.
Event Support
Additionally, our Public Engagement Specialist can assist event organizers with:
- Event planning
- Designing program content
- Event registration
- Finding event partners
- Liaising with Robson Square staff to book venue space, A/V and catering
- Marketing, including designing promotional materials and amplification on UBC channels
- On-the-day support to ensure the event runs smoothly
New applications paused as of August 2023
Connect with us
Questions? Contact Crystal Lau, Public Engagement Specialist at connects.robsonsquare@ubc.ca
