Local businesses are encouraged to take part in the 2026 Vivid Sydney Local Business Program, providing a unique opportunity to showcase their offerings to millions of visitors during one of the world's largest arts festivals.
With expressions of interest open until 3 April, the program enables bars, restaurants, retailers and on-water operators to connect with thousands of festivalgoers during Vivid Sydney, which will run from 22 May to 13 June 2026.
From creative pop-up activations and bespoke menus to exclusive festival offers, participating businesses will help energise the NSW visitor economy while showcasing local produce and products, supporting the state's growers and makers.
Delivered by the NSW Government's tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW, the Vivid Sydney Local Business Program is designed to help small and medium-sized businesses tap into the momentum of Australia's largest event, driving foot traffic, jobs and local spending across the city.
Last year, more than 400 businesses signed up to the program - a 110 per cent increase on the previous year - spanning precincts including Cockle Bay Wharf, Darling Quarter, Darling Square, Market City, Paddy's Market Haymarket and Sydney Place.
Survey results from the 2025 Local Business Program showed that 66 per cent of businesses found it worthwhile to extend trading hours, 53 per cent experienced higher-than-normal revenue, and more than 90 per cent would recommend the program.
With an ambitious goal of growing the NSW visitor economy to $91 billion across the next decade, NSW Government initiatives like this play a vital role in boosting visitation and supporting the state's long-term economic growth.
Businesses participating in the program receive access to a range of benefits, including promotion on the Vivid Sydney webpage, a free digital toolkit with creative assets to use in their marketing campaigns and LED screens and window decals.
Expressions of interest for the Vivid Sydney Local Business Program close on Friday, 3 April 2026.
For more information and to apply, visit https://www.vividsydney.com/local-business-program
Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said:
"Vivid Sydney is an incredible opportunity to celebrate our cultural richness and creative talent, with the Local Business Program helping bring this to life across the city.
"I encourage local businesses and operators to get involved in this year's program and help create world-class experiences that inspire visitors to stay out longer, explore more and support our vibrant night-time economy.
"Programs like this are key to positioning Sydney and NSW as a global leader in the visitor economy - showcasing our creative industries and delivering a significant boost to local venues, small businesses and jobs."
Minister for Small Business Janelle Saffin said:
"We know that winter can sometimes be a quieter stretch for retail and hospitality, but Vivid Sydney changes all that. It's the ultimate chance for our local 'makers and doers' to showcase what makes Sydney unique.
"Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and when they add their own creative flair to the festival, everyone wins.
"I'm encouraging every eligible business to jump on board by April 3 and make the most of the free marketing and global spotlight this program provides."
Executive Director of Business Sydney Paul Nicolaou said:
"Vivid Sydney is one of the most powerful drivers of visitation and economic activity in our city, and the Local Business Program ensures that small and medium-sized businesses are front and centre of that success.
"This is a fantastic opportunity for local operators to showcase their offerings to a global audience, drive foot traffic and be part of the energy that makes Sydney shine during Vivid Sydney delivering real benefits for
jobs, investment and the broader visitor economy."
