Austin opens applications for $23 million in arts and music grants
KUT 90.5 |
By
Stephanie Federico
Published July 8, 2026 at 11:07 AM CDT
Isak Kotecki for KUT News
The city opened applications Tuesday for $23 million in grants for the arts and music community
“Today’s launch reflects how deeply the City values both the creative community and the voices that continue to help shape these programs,” Angela Means, the director of the Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment office, said in a press release
Austinites can apply for between $5,000 and $250,000 depending on the program. Money for the grants comes from hotel occupancy taxes
“These HOT-funded grants are not just awards, they are a reinvestment of visitor dollars back into the artists, musicians, cultural organizations and heritage stewards who make Austin a sought-out destination,” Means said
The money will be awarded through four programs:
- Live Music Fund — $6 million is available for musicians, venues and promoters.
- Elevate — $11 million is available for artists, cultural organizations and groups that produce art.
- Heritage Preservation — $3 million is available to groups seeking to preserve historic spaces and help promote tourism.
- Thrive — $3 million is available for nonprofit organizations that reflect Austin’s culture.
Awards are either for one or two years, with funding beginning in January. The money can be used for “creative production, public programming, operational and administrative needs, cultural events, media and digital arts projects, dance and movement‑based work, literary arts, and more.”
Austinites can get help with applications by attending workshops or open office hours, or by scheduling a meeting with ACME staff. There are also online information videos in English and Spanish. More information can be found here
The deadline to apply is Aug. 18 at 6:59 p.m
