
FAQ
This page will be updated with frequently asked questions to help you understand more about our City Scout Program, the process, and how you can support, engage or participate in it.
What is the 2026 program fee?
PRIVATE sector participants - $3,500*
PUBLIC sector participants - $2,500 *
*Fee includes hotel stay at program hotel for two nights (Wednesday September 9 and Thursday September 10), meals and transportation within the program itinerary, all programmed activities, and staffing.
Are there opportunities for scholarships?
We're glad you asked! Yes! The opportunity to state your need is included in the application process. We have a limited number of needs-based scholarships available.
Who is an ideal participant for City Scout?
Participants will come from a diverse mix of industries and professional levels, with the goal of bringing visionaries, doers, and decision-makers together to propel a project forward in Denver. This year, we are looking for individuals who can collaboratively contribute to the conversation around downtown activation, public realm design, programming, permitting, and cultural partnerships. DDP anticipates strong participation from public and private stakeholders who are involved in major decisions and advancement in downtown Denver.
When will I find out if I get accepted and when will payment to reserve my spot be due?
March 30, 2026 – Application Period Opens for City Scout
May 1, 2026 – Application Period Closes for City Scout
May - June 2026 – Rolling Application Status Updates and Notifications of Acceptance
June 30 – Final Deadline to Register and Make Payment to Secure Spot
August 27, 2026 – Pre-Departure Briefing Social (Evening)
September 9-11, 2026 – City Scout Program in Montreal, Quebec
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation between acceptance and July 1: Full refund
Cancellation between July 1-August 1: 50% refund
Cancellation after August 1: No refund
I am having trouble accessing the online application - what should I do?
If you are having trouble applying, please email Sarah Fritzinger at sfritzinger@downtowndenver.com.
When does programming begin and end?
Official programming begins on Wednesday, September 9 at 5:00 PM (Montreal time) and concludes on Friday, September 11 by 1pm (Montreal time).
What flights should I book? Will there be a group flight to Montreal?
There will not be a group flight, however, we recommend the following flight options to ensure that everyone is in Montreal for our full program itinerary:
DEPARTURE: Depart from Denver on Wednesday, September 9, 2026
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Best option: Air Canada nonstop flight departs Denver at 9:40 AM and arrives in Montreal at 3:29 PM local time.
RETURN: Depart Montreal on Friday, September 11, 2026
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Best option: Air Canada nonstop flight departs Montreal at 4:30 PM and arrives in Denver at 6:46 PM local time.
Through the generosity of our partners with the Quebec Government and Air Canada, we are pleased to offer you a dedicated promotion code for discounted Air Canada tickets. Please see your program acceptance email for more details.
Will there be a companion program in Montreal if I want to bring a plus one?
We will not offer a formal companion program for City Scout this year. City Scout programming will be open to official City Scout participants and invited local guests only. Double occupancy rooms are available at the hotel if you are planning to bring a companion who will have their own itinerary in Montreal.
I am unable to participate in the programming taking place in Montreal, but I am very interested in supporting efforts related to this topic in Denver. Will there be future programming taking place at a later date?
Absolutely! City Scout programming accounts for additional programming that will take place once we are all back in Denver to continue the conversations as well as report out on the lessons learned in Montreal. Stay tuned for more information on additional programming.