Our Funding Programs 

Creative Arts and Culture

Nexus

The Nexus program supports emerging cultural and creative individuals or organizations producing public projects and activities for Austin's diverse communities. Learn more by visiting the Nexus webpage.

Elevate

Elevate is a capacity-building program for Austin's cultural producers. This grant offers operational assistance to support long-term community impact. Learn more by visiting the Elevate webpage.

Thrive

Thrive is a two-year investment program designed to foster and sustain the growth of local arts nonprofits reflective of Austin's diverse cultures. Learn more by visiting the Thrive webpage.

Music Industry

Austin Live Music Fund

The Live Music Fund program grants to musicians, promoters, and event organizers to create and promote live music experiences that highlight Austin's rich musical heritage. Learn more by visiting the Austin Live Music Fund webpage.


We welcome your feedback to inform future programming.

Please participate in the survey by sharing your thoughts about the Nexus, Elevate, Thrive, or Austin Live Music Fund programs. 

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Cultural Funding: A Recent History

2010:   CreateAustin Cultural Master Plan Introduced

2012:   Imagine Austin Plan Updated

2015:  Completed Cultural Tourism Strategy Report

2016City Council Resolution

2016: Staff responds with Music and Creative Ecosystem Stabilization Recommendations 

2017:  Visitor Task Force's Final Report Released; Cultural Funding Program Responsiveness Working Group formed

2019: Live Music Fund established

2021: Cultural Funding Review Interim Report Introduced

2022: Cultural Funding Review Final Report; Arts & Music Programs Publicly Introduced:

  • Nexus 
  • Thrive
  • Elevate
  • Austin Live Music Fund

2023City of Austin Equity Statement: Strategic Direction

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Upcoming Grant Cycles

January 2025:

  • Nexus Application Opens

May 2025:

  • Live Music Fund, Elevate Applications Open

Anticipated 2026:

  • Thrive Application Opens