The City of Austin Economic Development Department has announced the availability of $4.5 million in support through the 2024 Austin Live Music Fund. The program will provide grants ranging from $15,000 to $60,000 to professional musicians, bands, independent promoters, and live music venues in Austin. These funds are intended to bolster eligible promoted music activities aimed at attracting tourists and convention delegates to the city.
Activities that may be covered by these grants include live and online music events, studio and video production, merchandise sales, music broadcasting, among others. The application period for the Austin Live Music Fund will commence on Tuesday, May 21 at 10 a.m., concluding on Tuesday, June 18 at 7 p.m.
Sylnovia Holt-Rabb, Director of the Economic Development Department said: “Music is not just a melody; it is the heartbeat of Austin—enriching our diverse culture and driving our presence as the Live Music Capital of the World.” She further emphasized that supporting local music isn't merely an investment in entertainment but also an investment in the soul and prosperity of Austin.
Eligibility for these grants extends to "Professional Musician" and "Independent Promoter" applicants who reside within the Austin-Round Rock Metropolitan Statistical Area—which encompasses Bastrop, Caldwell, Hays, Travis, and Williamson counties—and "Live Music Venue" applicants located within the Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ). Grants will be awarded competitively based on criteria such as limited access to services, local economic impact, programming and outreach efforts, accessibility considerations and past access to City of Austin support.
To review full eligibility requirements or access application assistance resources visit www.atxmusic.org. Applications can be submitted starting Tuesday, May 21 at 10 a.m. through Tuesday June 18 at 7 p.m.
The City of Austin Economic Development Department is committed to supporting business growth creative industries, and local communities. Its programs are designed to build an equitable, sustainable economy to improve the lives of all Austin residents.