Austin Creative Space Disaster Relief Program

The City of Austin is no longer accepting applications for the Austin Creative Space Disaster Relief Program. The deadline for submission expired on June 17, 2020 at 5:00 p.m.

We are in the process of reviewing all applications submitted, and we are exploring how we can use additional federal and local funds to offer additional assistance for small businesses, start-up companies, entrepreneurs, creatives, and non-profit organizations.

Find helpful resources:

City of Austin's ATXRecovers.com - A one-stop resource to help businesses and individuals recover from the financial hardships caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Visit the Musician & Artist section that includes services to help musicians and artists that are recovering from economic hardships due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Find resources related to funding, unemployment assistance, legal aid, consulting help, and more.
Economic Development Department’s Small Business Resources Directory - Database of local, state, federal, and community resources. Filter by “Disaster Relief” to find immediate support for businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Austin City Council approved Resolution No. 20200423-040 on April 23, 2020 to provide $1 million for the Austin Creative Space Disaster Relief Program. This grant will provide direct support to for-profit live music venues, performance spaces, art galleries, arts-focused nonprofits and individual artists facing temporary or permanent displacement.

Applicants may apply for up to $50,000 toward unpaid commercial rent and to defray rent hikes, property acquisition costs, or other space-related needs such as facility improvements or displacement-related expenditures.

View larger version of Program Metrics

Frequently Asked Questions

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Is this grant for residential or commercial leased space?: This grant is only for commercial leased space. Read the Eligible and Ineligible Applicants section located above.
When are grants awarded?: Grants awardees will be announced the week of June 29, 2020.
Can I use the Austin Creative Space Disaster Relief Program funds for my personal studio space located within a residence?: No, funds may not be used for home studio space. Funds are only used for commercial leased spaces.
Can the rent stipend be for up to 12 months?: Yes, the rent stipend can be awarded for up to 12 months.
As an independent artist, am I required to apply through a non-profit sponsor?: No, you are not required to have a non-profit sponsorship. This program allows individual artists to apply.
Is the maximum of what you can receive for rent stipend only the amount by which your rent has increased?: You can only receive the difference between your previous rent and current rent. You may receive the amount of missed rent during the COVID-19 pandemic, since March 1.
Will our creative business financial status affect our score?: No, your financials will serve to support your answers to the application questions.
If my organization has already been displaced and is building out a new space, it that considered urgent?: Yes, it is considered urgent. Read Evaluation Criteria and Scoring section located above.
Is the City of Austin able to connect artists with spaces?: No, the City of Austin cannot locate space for you. You must provide an executed lease or lease offer for the space you occupy or intend to occupy.
Can independent artists earn points in the Co-location category?: Yes, the application includes questions that are relevant to both organizations and independent artists.