Resources for Local Artists
Where to Donate, Support, or Seek Funds
Words by Sam Lauron Photo of El Federico by Eric Morales
Austin’s creative community is just one of many industries that’s been significantly impacted by the recent crisis. For artists who have been economically impacted, and for those who want to support the local art community, there are several grants and programs available.
Austin Creative Alliance
In response to the coronavirus pandemic, Austin Creative Alliance established the Artists Emergency Relief Fund to support those who have lost income due to lost gigs and shows. Artists seeking funds can apply for up to $500, and applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis. For those interested in supporting the local art community, Austin Creative Alliance welcomes donations to the fund.
austincreativealliance.org/emergency
Sun Radio Recharge
The solar-powered radio station has always been on a mission to support local musicians and independent radio stations, and now, in light of the pandemic, they’re taking it one step further with their COVID-19 relief program. Central Texas musicians and crew members can apply to receive a grant of up to $200 that will go directly toward paying their electricity bills. The Sun Radio Foundation has also allocated funds for community and non-commercial radio stations across the country. Donations to help support local musicians are welcomed.
sunradio.com/recharge
Austin Music Disaster Relief Fund
The second grant launched by the City of Austin is geared toward local musicians who have experienced economic hardship due to COVID-19. Musicians must demonstrate income loss and can apply for a $1000 grant. Applications open June 8 at 10 a.m. and close June 12 at 5 p.m.
atxrecovers.com
Austin Creative Space Disaster Relief Program
The City of Austin Cultural Arts Division recently announced two grant opportunities for artists. The first one is focused on rent relief and will directly support for-profit live music venues, performance spaces, art galleries, arts-focused nonprofits, and individual artists. Organizations and artists who are eligible may receive up to $50,000 to use toward rent payment for a commercial space. Applications close June 17 at 5 p.m.
atxrecovers.com
Big Medium Artist Relief Fund
One of the major hubs for Austin’s art community, Big Medium has created an Artist Relief Fund for those impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. One-time grants of $500, $1,000, and $1,500 will be given to artists who have experienced financial fallout due to loss of arts-related work or postponed or cancelled art events. Artists have until June 29 to submit applications for the first round of funding.
bigmedium.org/artistrelieffund
Banding Together ATX
Banding Together ATX is a fund geared toward the music, service, and hospitality industry. What initially began as an effort to support the live music industry, which was severely impacted by SXSW cancellations, became an initiative that continues to lend a hand. Musicians, venue workers, photographers, and more who have been economically impacted by event cancellations and the closure of live music venues can apply to receive a grocery gift card for up to $100. Donations are also welcomed.
redriverculturaldistrict.org/donate
