Title
Report regarding a resolution accepting a $10,000 grant from Genentech for the 2026 South San Francisco Lunar New Year Night Market, and approving Budget Amendment Number 26.033 appropriating the funds. (Ernesto Lucero, Economic Development Manager)
label
RECOMMENDATION
Recommendation
Staff recommends City Council adopt a resolution accepting a $10,000 grant from Genentech and approving Budget Amendment Number 26.033 appropriating the funds.
Body
BACKGROUND
Economic and Community Development Department (ECD) staff continue to pursue opportunities to bring revitalization efforts to downtown. One successful opportunity has been to bring new events for residents, regional visitors, and local businesses. On February 7, 2025, the City held its first Lunar New Year Night Market in the downtown Breezeway, next door to the Economic Advancement Center (EAC) along Grand Avenue. The event concept was developed based on significant community engagement around the business improvement district outreach, ideas to activate the Breezeway space, and bringing more foot traffic to downtown on a Friday evening.
The Night Market concept proved to be a successful event with nearly 900 attendees, 30 food and beverage vendors, and lion dancers along Grand Avenue taking place in the early evening on a Friday. The event was sponsored by Genentech's South San Francisco Civic Fund and the National League of Cities (NLC). Regional event organizer, OMG Entertainment, contracted with the City to implement the event.
DISCUSSION
The Genentech South San Francisco Civic Fund annually issues a call for applications to projects and programs that have an impact within the South San Francisco community. As part of the commitment of Genentech to the local community, the fund is an annual grant opportunity intended to invest in local organizations and programs that serve South San Francisco, and events that enhance pride and community from its residents. Grant awards range between $5,0...
Click here for full text