Austin’s creative community has another major opportunity to bring new ideas to life.
The City of Austin’s Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment (ACME) Office has officially opened the FY27 ACME Grant Cycle, making more than $23 million available to support artists, musicians, cultural organizations, heritage initiatives, live music venues, and creative projects across Austin. Applications are now being accepted through Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at 6:59 p.m.
The FY27 funding opportunities include four major programs:
- Elevate – supporting nonprofit arts organizations and cultural producers that create public arts experiences.
- Thrive – providing multi-year operational support to established nonprofit cultural organizations.
- Austin Live Music Fund – investing in musicians, independent promoters, and live music venues that strengthen Austin’s internationally recognized music scene.
- Heritage Preservation Grant – supporting projects that preserve and celebrate Austin’s diverse cultural heritage.
Beyond funding, ACME is offering a series of free workshops, office hours, and application assistance sessions to help prospective applicants better understand eligibility requirements and prepare competitive proposals.
As Austin’s volunteer-powered community radio station, KOOP is pleased to share opportunities that strengthen the city’s vibrant cultural ecosystem. Whether you’re an artist, musician, nonprofit organization, or cultural institution with a project that serves the community, these grants may help transform your vision into reality.
For complete funding guidelines, eligibility requirements, workshop schedules, and application materials, visit the City of Austin’s ACME Funding Programs webpage.