Financial Resources for Artists and Music Industry Professionals

Grants (updated 7/7/21)

Academy of Country Music's Lifting Lives' COVID-19 Relief Fund

The recent devastation of COVID-19 has rippled through the country music community and has some of our country family, like many other Americans, finding themselves in financial need right now.

Whether you are in front of the mic, crafting the lyrics, driving the crew, planning the tours, or assisting behind-the-scenes, we hope to offer support in this unprecedented situation.

ACM Lifting Lives remains dedicated to improving lives through the power of music and has created the ACM Lifting Lives COVID-19 Response Fund to continue this mission in wake of the coronavirus crisis.

American Federation of Musicians' Petrillo Memorial Fund

Started in 1951 with a $10,000 personal contribution from AFM President James C. Petrillo in memory of his late son, the Lester Petrillo Memorial Fund for Disabled Musicians is a charitable trust fund that provides financial aid to disabled members of the American Federation of Musicians. This fund is not intended to replace health insurance or provide general loans, but does supply modest amounts of assistance to qualified applicants on an emergency basis.

American Guild of Musical Artists Relief Fund (updated 10/8/20)

Any AGMA member in good standing is invited to apply for financial assistance under the AGMA Relief Fund, which has temporarily doubled the amount of assistance available to those in need during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Before you begin the online application, make sure you have:

A copy of your current membership card OR confirmation by AGMA membership department (email membership@musicalartists.org and put “Proof of Membership” in subject line) – including end date (you must be current through October 2019)
Most recent bank statement (not printout from ATM)
Current lease or mortgage/maintenance

Artist Relief Grant (updated 10/8/20) - Application Extended to December 2020

Artist Relief will distribute $5,000 grants to artists facing dire financial emergencies due to COVID-19; serve as an ongoing informational resource; and co-launch the COVID-19 Impact Survey for Artists and Creative Workers, designed by Americans for the Arts, to better identify and address the needs of artists.

To be eligible for a relief grant, applicants must be:

Practicing artists able to demonstrate a sustained commitment to their work, careers, and a public audience;
Experiencing dire financial emergencies due to the COVID-19 pandemic;
21 years of age or older;
Provide a W9 and Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)—we will collect this information after you’ve been notified of your selection;
Residing and working in the U.S. for the last two years;
Not a full-time employee, board member, director, officer, or immediate family member of any of the coalition partners;
Not previously awarded a relief grant from this fund.

Artist Rescue Trust - NEW

Artist Rescue Trust (A.R.T.) exists is to provide relief funding to musicians and artists whose ability to perform, tour and earn a living has been negatively affected by COVID-19. A.R.T. will provide $1,500 over three months to artists in need and amplify the stories, performances and creations they had hoped to share with the world before the pandemic limited their ability to do so.

Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:

Be 18+
Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident in the United States, District of Columbia, or U.S. Territories (e.g. citizen, green card holder, and/or permanent resident who can provide a W9 and SSN or ITIN).
Be a professional, actively practicing musician or artist whose primary source of income is made through live performances, tours, gallery openings, book tours/readings, or other bookings/events and not working on a regular salary basis for one employer.
Demonstrate a commitment to current and ongoing activity in their artistic discipline/s.
Show a demonstrated need for emergency relief to recover the immediate loss of income through cancellations and bookings due to COVID19.
Not be enrolled in unemployment benefits.
Not a full-time employee, board member, director, officer, or immediate family member of any of the coalition partners;
Not previously awarded a relief grant from this fund.

Arts and Culture Leaders of Color Emergency Fund (updated 10/8/20)

"The Arts and Culture Leaders of Color Emergency Fund is intended to help those pursuing careers as artists or arts administrators whose income has been directly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. This fund is for those who self-identify as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color). If you fit this description and you are in need of short-term, immediate financial assistance – we would like to help...this is a ONE-TIME micro grant of $200."

Austin Creative Arts Alliance's Artists Emergency Relief Fund

As part of our response to the COVID-19 pandemic, ACA has established The Artists Emergency Relief Fund to help artists in Greater Austin maintain their personal and financial stability in these uncertain times.

Artists may apply for up to $500 to replace verifiable lost income due to the cancellation of a specific, scheduled gig or opportunity (i.e. commissions, performances, contracts) due to COVID-19 precautionary measures. Applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis, and are subject to approval and available funds. Priority will be given to ACA members, and to applicants facing food or housing insecurity. ACA is reviewing applications daily, so that funds can be in artists’ hands as quickly as possible.

Austin Creative Space Disaster Relief Program

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.

A Grant Review Committee comprised of public and private sector leaders in the arts, banking, and real estate sectors will evaluate the applications and make final recommendations for awards. The grants will be awarded on a competitive basis, and priority will be given to organizations or individuals confronting immediate and critical needs. Organizations serving historically underrepresented communities are encouraged to apply.

Austin Creative Worker Relief Grant

Application Opens: August 17, 2020 at 10:00 a.m.
Application Closes: August 28, 2020 at 5:00 p.m.

Austin City Council approved Resolution No. 20200604-040 on June 4, 2020 to designate $3.5 million for the Austin Creative Worker Relief Grant. Austin’s individual creatives and industry support staff that have experienced an economic hardship due to COVID-19 may apply for a $2,000 grant to offset expenses like rent, bills, and groceries.

The grant program is designed to provide immediate and equitably-focused grants to individual creatives and industry support staff in Austin. For purposes of the Austin Creative Worker Relief Grant, “creative worker” will be defined as an individual whose current or primary occupation is or has been within arts, music, film, fashion, museums, preservation, and more. This includes both practicing artists and associated personnel within the creative industries.

For technical support and application status, contact Austin Better Business Bureau by email CreativeWorkerGrant@austin.bbb.org or by phone 512-318-2683.

For eligibility questions and assistance completing an application, contact Texas Accountants and Lawyers for the Arts by email CreativeWorkerGrant@talarts.org or by phone 512-588-9971.

Austin Music Disaster Relief Fund

Grant Applications Re-opened: August 6, 2020 until funds are exhausted.

The Austin City Council approved Ordinance No. 20200423-067 on April 23, 2020 to designate $1.5 million for the Austin Music Disaster Relief Fund. These grants are for Austin’s most vulnerable musicians experiencing economic hardship. Eligible local musicians must be able to demonstrate income loss due to the COVID-19 global pandemic to apply for a $1,000 grant.

The Austin Music Disaster Relief Fund application will be live and accepting eligible submissions through the MusiCares Foundation on a first-come first-served basis starting on Monday, June 8th, 10:00 a.m. CST.

Austin Non-Profit Relief Grant

The Austin Non-Profit Relief Grant will provide eligible Austin nonprofits with grants up to $20,000 for expenses incurred as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Applicants may apply for one-time grants up to $20,000 toward reimbursement of eligible expenses including rent, payroll, and other economic needs. The Austin Non-Profit Relief Grant application will be live and accepting eligible submissions through the Austin Better Business Bureau.

Eligible non-profits must be able to demonstrate an economic loss associated with the COVID-19 global pandemic and must be headquartered in a City of Austin Council district.

Application Opens: July 7, 2020 at 10:00 a.m.
Application Closes: July 24, 2020 at 5:00 p.m.

Austin Small Business Relief Grant

Applicants may apply for up to $40,000 toward their business needs including rent, payroll and other economic needs.

Eligible local businesses must be able to demonstrate an economic loss associated with the COVID-19 global pandemic and must be headquartered in a City of Austin Council district. 

Application Opens: July 7, 2020 at 10:00 a.m.
Application Closes: July 24, 2020 at 5:00 p.m.

Austin Rental Assistance Program

In August, the City of Austin and the Housing Authority of the City of Austin (HACA) will launch the Relief of Emergency Needs for Tenants Assistance Program (RENT). The program is for income-eligible Austin renters that live within the city limits and are financially impacted by COVID-19. The program will provide direct rent relief of $12.9 million between August 2020 and January 2021. Renters who think they may be eligible must apply through the RENT online application portal (open in August). Applicants will be randomly selected and qualified per program requirements and funding availability. Full monthly rent payment will be made directly to landlords on behalf of the tenant.

Check the www.austintexas.gov/RENT webpage for more information. To receive an email alert when RENT Assistance Program applications open in August and other information on the City’s housing affordability programs - subscribe to HousingMatters newsletter.

Red River Cultural District's Banding Together ATX Fund - Application Extended to December 18, 2020

The Red River Cultural District (RRCD) is accepting renewed applications for Banding Together ATX and will be awarding grants in the form of HEB gift cards up to $100. Banding Together ATX is intended for creatives, musicians, bartenders, wait staff, production, valets and all other workers who have built this city as a music, hospitality and cultural tourism capital. Phase Four applications are open now thru Friday, December 18th at 12pm. Previous recipients ARE eligible to apply!

"We understand that this is a difficult time for everyone affected by the COVID-19 Pandemic. Banding Together ATX has secured philanthropic donations to support workers in the music, hospitality, and service industry businesses who have suffered economically as a result of event cancelations and business closures. The funds and subsequent distribution are being managed by the Red River Cultural District (RRCD), a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. While our organization focuses primarily on efforts related to the Red River District of downtown Austin, affected individuals across the city are encouraged to apply.

"Based on the current and most urgent needs of our community, this round of funding will be disbursed via grocery gift cards of denominations up to $100. We plan to be responsive to the needs of our community and with the situation evolving at such a rapid pace, future funds may be dispersed with different criteria or via different mechanisms.

"Submitted applications will be considered on a first come, first served basis until this round of funding is exhausted. These funds are intended for individuals (age 18+) and the criteria for receiving funding are the following:

Current resident of Austin and surrounding areas
Unemployed at time of application
Loss employment as a direct result of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Loss of employment in one of the following kinds of businesses:
- a) music venue
- b) musician
- c) music marketing/photography/content
- d) bar
- e) event production/activations
- f) food & beverage
- g) hotel
- h) hospitality/DMCs

Applications will be processed by RRCD staff within 7-10 business days. Submitting an application does not guarantee that you will receive fund benefits. Benefits are limited to one per individual at this time. We anticipate more applications than we can accommodate so if you do not receive any benefit this round, please stay engaged with RRCD by checking our website and following our social channels for regular updates. We will be advocating for increased resources and collecting additional funding in the coming months.

Blues Foundation HART Fund

The Blues Foundation established the HART Fund (Handy Artists Relief Trust) for Blues musicians and their families in financial need due to a broad range of health concerns. The Fund provides for acute, chronic and preventive medical and dental care as well as funeral and burial expenses.

Dallas County Emergency Business Assistance Program (EBAP)

Purpose: The program is designed to rapidly provide financial assistance to “traditional” small businesses (i.e., those with no more than 100 employees) that have been adversely affected by the current pandemic. Its purpose is to “stop the bleeding” for these firms; it is not to necessarily restore them to their pre-pandemic status.

LINK TO PRE-APPLICATION:
HTTPS://WWW.SURVEYMONKEY.COM/R/DALLASCOUNTYEBAP

Funding: $5 million of Coronavirus Relief Fund funding (as provided by the CARES Act)

Definition of small business: Business with no more than 100 employees and revenue under $1.5 million.

Other eligibility requirements: Business must be located in Dallas County (but not the City of Dallas). Business must have experienced a loss of at least 25% in income since March 1, 2020 because of the pandemic. Business must be current in the payment of county and local taxes.

Type of assistance: Forgivable loan

Maximum loan amount: $15,000

Maximum loan calculation: 3 months of payroll, lease payments, utilities, the renting of existing equipment, & the payment of existing business-related loans for equipment, vehicles, and/or real estate + $3000 of restart-up capital.

Loan terms: Loan will have a term of 1 year and an annual interest rate of 1%. No interest accrues and no payments are required until month 5.

Eligibility for forgiveness: The original principal amount is eligible for forgiveness upon Lender’s receipt of documentation that Borrower continued to operate its business for four (4) months and carried at least 90% of the March 1, 2020 full-time employee count and payroll. Each month that Borrower continues to be in operation and maintain the required employee count and payroll, one fourth (¼) of the loan is eligible for forgiveness by Lender.

Status of program: The pre-application period opens on June 15, 2020 and closes on June 28, 2020. After the pre-application period closes, NDC will conduct a randomized borrower selection process to identify the eligible businesses that will be invited to submit a full loan application.

Email: ntxsmallbiz@ndconline.org

Phone number: (214) 845-7673. All voicemail messages will be returned within one business day.

Folk and Traditional Arts of Texas Artist Relief Fund

A group of Folk and Traditional Art organizations, with the support of Texas Folklife, will award grants of $500 to community-based folk and traditional artists impacted by COVID-19. Grants are a one-time award made to individuals to assist with their financial well-being. The panel will be intentional in the distribution of awards, striving to reach those most in need.

To be eligible for this $500.00 one-time grant, the following conditions need to apply:

You must currently live in Texas.
You must identify as a traditional or folk artist (see below) and be currently active as a traditional artist.
You must indicate a financial need.

DEADLINE: Applications music be received by August 14, 2020.

Greater Houston Area Arts Relief Fund for Artists and Arts Workers

The fund will offer grants to Houston-area artists and arts managers to supplement lost wages as a result of COVID-19. Grants will help cover basic need expenses such as food, rent, and medical needs. After we help our arts community with the most basic needs, we will turn to help nonprofits to sustain their work.

City of Houston's Musicians and Music Venues Economic Relief Program

Mayor Sylvester Turner and Houston City Council announced a new relief program for musicians and music venues that have been adversely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The City of Houston's Musicians and Music Venues Economic Relief Program is being funded with $3 million of the City's allocated CARES Act 2020 funds.

Musicians will be eligible for up to $5,000 in relief funding, and music venues will be eligible for up to $50,000 or $100,000, depending on budget size.

"As a city, we have provided rental assistance and supported small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, we will focus on Houston's musicians. Music venues, and iconic performance spaces are a big part of our city and an important segment of Houston's cultural life," said Mayor Sylvester Turner. "They were delivering great live music before the pandemic, and we want them to be able to do that again, as soon as they can, and by being safe."

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced many Houston venues to close and events to get postponed. The Mayor's Office of Cultural Affairs (MOCA) created the program as a resource for Houston musicians and for-profit and non-profit music venues to sustain
their operations during and after the pandemic.

"During a community meeting hosted by MOCA and the Texas Music Office, we heard from a diverse group of Houstonians in the music industry that one of the most pressing concerns is survival," said Debbie McNulty, Director of the Mayor's Office of Cultural Affairs. "Beyond economic relief support, MOCA is actively looking at other forms of assistancefor our Houston music sector."

Applications for the program are currently being accepted and must be completed online at www.houstoncaresaboutmusic.org by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, November 25, 2020.

To qualify, applicants:

Must be a live music venue whose principal place of business is located within the City of Houston's city limits.
Must be a musician whose principal residence is located within the City of Houston's city limits.
Must provide evidence of how business revenue has significantly decreased because of government restrictions or other challenges due to COVID-19.
Must be in good standing with City requirements (e.g., property taxes, personal property, grounds for debarment, etc.).

In addition to these requirements, a weighted scoring matrix will be used
to ensure the equitable distribution of grant funds. Applications will be
ranked by objective scores, and funding will be applied until the program runs out of funding.

City of Houston Rental Assistance Grants (updated 10/8/20)

The $20 million City of Houston rental assistance program is funded with $15 million from the CARES Act and $5 million in private donations. Mayor Turner thanks the Houston Endowment ($2 million), United Way/Greater Houston Community Foundation COVID-19 Relief Fund ($1 million), McNair Foundation ($1 million) and the Kinder Foundation ($1 million) for their generous support during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Tenant applications are still being accepted.

Houston Music Foundation Crisis Relief Fund

The Houston Music Foundation was created as a crisis relief fund, created to help Houston's musicians in times of need. "Our goal is to raise funds for local musicians residing in Harris County during times of crisis, and our goal is to get donations into the hands of those in need as quickly as possible," they wrote during their launch on Tuesday, April 7th.

Qualified applicants are eligible for a one-time grant of $500.

This fund is an extension of 501(c)3 nonprofit organization Artists for Artists created to support musicians by way of Houston Music Foundation’s Crisis Relief Fund.

Dallas Artist Relief Fund

Creating Our Future is a group of artists and arts advocates in Dallas who are raising money to support artists and freelancers who are taking financial hits as a result of closures and lost income from COVID-19. The GoFundMe campaign has set a goal of $5,000 to raise funds to provide emergency and preventative resources to those at financial risk. The donated grant funding is aimed at helping with financial assistance for low-income, BIPOC, trans/GNC/NB/Queer artists.

Deep Ellum 100 Grants - NEW

The Dallas Deep Ellum neighborhood-focused nonprofit - Deep Ellum 100 - has once again been raising funds in order to underwrite four separate $2,500 grants to support area businesses, service industry workers, musicians and visuals artists in need of relief amidst the still-ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

"In the wake of the economic hardships created by the global pandemic and recent winter storms, many restaurants and businesses have been greatly affected. Many people in our community are hourly workers, and depend on wages and tips for the services they provide, and have faced constant financial instability without a safety net to survive during these challenging times. We are a part of the Deep Ellum community and have been actively working to aid our neighbors during this crisis, supporting the people who make up the fabric of this neighborhood. We are virtually hosting another round of fundraising to uplift the people who live and work in this great neighborhood.

"We will continue to accept donations through our site, and via cash or check in-person at Texas Brand Bank at 3033 Main Street in Deep Ellum. You may also contribute using Venmo at @deepellum100."

Facebook's COVID-19 Small Business Grants Program

In response to the pandemic, Facebook is offering $100 million in cash grants and ad credits for up to 30,000 eligible small businesses around the world, including music and live events businesses. Facebook also has a new Business Resource Hub to help small businesses prepare for and manage disruptions like COVID-19. Applications are now open!

Fort Worth Creative Industry Relief Fund + Rachel Gollay’s Artist & Service Worker Relief Fund

Hear Fort Worth and Film Fort Worth with assistance from United Way of Tarrant County announced expansion of a creative industry relief fund to help support musicians, visual artists and filmmakers who have lost work due to COVID-19.

The initiative spearheaded by Hear Fort Worth is an extension of Fort Worth musician Rachel Gollay’s Artist & Service Worker Relief Fund, which raised $10,000 and provided support of $200 per qualified applicant.

Visit Fort Worth, parent organization of Hear Fort Worth and Film Fort Worth, will manage the application process and United Way of Tarrant County will spearhead collection of donations and fund distribution.

United Way of Tarrant County will host the donation and application page on their website https://www.unitedwaytarrant.org/artistsrelieffund/. The goal is to reach a total of $20,000, however, the fund will stay open as long as donations continue to come in. Gifts to the fund will be 100% tax-deductible, with tax acknowledgements provided by United Way of Tarrant County for any individual donations of $250 or more.The fund is open to Fort Worth musicians, filmmakers and visual artists. Qualified applicants will be eligible for a one-time grant of $300.

Gospel Music Trust Fund

The Purpose of the Gospel Music Trust Fund is to give financial assistance in the nature of gifts in time of need, in the event of an emergency or major catastrophe, terminal or severe illness without efficient insurance, to individuals who derive or have derived a substantial portion of their income from the field of gospel music. An individual requesting assistance within the purpose of the Trust Fund, for themselves or their children must have ten years of full-time employment within the Gospel/Christian music field.

Requests for financial assistance should be made in writing to the Gospel Music Trust Fund. All requests are reviewed and considered by the GMTF trustees and are kept in the strictest of confidence. Financial assistance meeting the Trust Fund guidelines and approved by the trustees is paid directly to the applicant’s creditors.

International Bluegrass Music Association’s BlueGrass Trust Fund

If you are or have been a professional in the business of bluegrass music (or who have been actively involved at some point in their career) and are in a time of emergency need, apply to the Bluegrass Trust Fund for financial grants and loans, which are generally between $500 and $5,000.

Jazz Foundation of America Musicians’ Emergency Fund

This fund offers financial support, housing assistance and pro bono medical care for musicians who have made a living playing blues, jazz and roots music.

When age, illness, or disaster threatens a long career, many have nowhere to turn. These musicians have been saving us with their music our entire lives. These are dignified people who never think to ask for help. Our lifesaving programs turn despair in to hope.

Musicians who have made a living playing blues, jazz, and roots music know they can call our office at any time or walk through our doors for help in solving an emergency. We average 30 individual musician emergency cases a day and approximately 9,000 assists every year. We prevent homelessness with housing assistance, keep artists healthy with pro bono medical care and provide financial support that keeps the lights on and food on the table.

Live Music Society Grant - Application Deadline March 2, 2021

Live Music Society launched its relief efforts in the Fall of 2020 with the first phase of grants to 20 small music venues across the country. We are committed to giving $2 million in grants, ranging from $10,000 to $50,000, in our first two years of operation.

Now in our second phase, we are accepting grant applications and encourage small clubs to apply. We know the circumstances that brought you here were not easy. It’s our intention to make this process as easy and straightforward as possible.

Venues at a minimum must meet the eligibility criteria.

Please note that the grants are reviewed by a jury, and not “first come, first served”, so we recommend that you take some time to answer the questions.

GRANT APPLICATION DEADLINE: March 2, 2021.

LiveNation's CREW NATION Global Relief Fund for Live Music Crews

Live music inspires millions around the world, but the concerts we all enjoy wouldn’t be possible without the countless crew members working behind the scenes. As COVID-19 puts concerts on pause, we want to extend a helping hand to the touring and venue crews who depend on shows to make a living.

Crew Nation was created to do just that.

Crew members are the backbone of the live music industry, and we hope you’ll join us in supporting them through this temporary intermission until we can once again unite millions around the world through the power of live music. Crew Nation is powered by Music Forward Foundation, a charitable 501c3 organization, that will be administering the fund.

Live Nation has committed $10 million to Crew Nation – contributing an initial $5 million to the fund, then matching the next $5 million given by artists, fans and employees dollar for dollar.

Mesquite Emergency Business Assistance Program

Grants in the form of forgivable loans of up to $50,000 will be available to local small business owners through the Mesquite Emergency Business Assistance Program, which opens July 13. Up to $3.5 million will be available to those who are able to demonstrate a 25 percent loss in income since March 1 due to COVID-19.

Mesquite is joining forces with Dallas County to offer the grants, which means business owners will only have to fill out one application to be eligible for two programs. Applicants will first be entered into a lottery selection process for Dallas County grants. If a Mesquite business is not successful in getting a Dallas County grant, the business will automatically be entered into a lottery for a City of Mesquite grant.

Program Opens: July 13; $3.5 Million Available

For details on the program, please click on this link to view the Dallas County EBAP page.

MusiCares Grants of Up To $1,000 For Music Industry Professionals

Music industry professionals may apply for basic living assistance (rent or mortgage). Initial grant requests can be made up to $1000 to compensate for cancelled work that was scheduled and lost. Should we receive additional funding, we will evaluate the grant amounts available. All items below must be included in your request:

A completed MusiCares application
Proof of cancellations and bookings
Copy of your lease agreement or mortgage statement which includes account numbers, vendor address and your name on the lease or statement

Please note: Texas-based applicants may use the South or West application. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed and requests will be processed in the order in which received. It could take up to two weeks to process a completed application.

NEA's American Rescue Plan Grants - NEW ... deadline July 22

The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (“Rescue Plan”) is designed to fuel the nation’s recovery from the devastating economic and health effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Funds allocated to the National Endowment for the Arts (“Arts Endowment”) in this historic legislation represent a significant commitment to the arts and a recognition of the value of the arts and culture sector to the nation’s economy and recovery.

The Arts Endowment will competitively award Rescue Plan funds to eligible organizations nationwide. These funds are intended to help support jobs in the arts sector, keep the doors open to arts organizations nationwide, and assist the field in its response to and recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Unlike other Arts Endowment funding programs that offer project-based support, Rescue Plan funds are intended to support specific operating costs only. Cost share/matching funds are not required.

The Arts Endowment intends to make awards that will impact a broad constituency. We encourage applications from a variety of eligible organizations including: organizations that serve populations that are underserved, such as those whose opportunities to experience the arts are limited by ethnicity, economics, geography, or disability; organizations with small and medium-sized budgets; organizations from rural to urban communities; and organizations that may be applying for federal support through the Arts Endowment for the first time.

Rescue Plan funding is available through two separate competitive opportunities:

NIVA Emergency Relief Fund

"In October 2020, we launched the NIVA Emergency Relief Fund to raise money for our most vulnerable venues, and keep them afloat while pursuing Congress for federal financial relief. This initial round of ERF applications has been closed. Applicants that are inquiring about the status of their application may email erf@nivassoc.org.

"Now that the Save Our Stages Act has been passed as part of the upcoming COVID-19 Relief Bill, NIVA hopes to work with the Small Business Administration to ensure the emergency relief is dispersed as Congress intended, that the instructions and process to apply for grants ensure that the process is implemented accurately, fairly and as expediently as possible.

"Since it could take many weeks, even months for the funding to flow, the NIVA Emergency Relief Fund continues to raise money to assist the venues at greatest risk of permanently going under as we wait for the grants to be issued. Anyone wishing to donate can do so by using the form below.

"The fund is administered by The Giving Back Fund; a separate 501(c)3 non-profit that will collect the money and oversee the application process for venues to receive grants from the NIVA Emergency Relief Fund.

"For any questions regarding the NIVA Emergency Relief Fund, please contact erf@nivassoc.org."

Southside C.A.R.E.S. Fund (in Fort Worth)

With many of its retailers, restaurants, bars, breweries, entertainment venues and events closed or operating at reduced capacity, Fort Worth's Near Southside creatives and service industry employees are experiencing significant financial hardship due to the COVID-19 crisis.

Near Southside is now offering $250 relief grants to members of its community who need it most.

The fund has been made possible by a $15,000 matching funds lead gift from Marilyn and Marty Englander, owners of Kent & Co, and relies on community contributions to serve applicants. Since opening one week ago, Southside C.A.R.E.S. has received broad support from the Near Southside community. The Englander's spirit of giving has been carried forward by additional matching-funds gifts from Amanda and Eric Behn of Vandervoorts Dairy, First Financial Bank, and the DuBose Family Foundation.

You can double your community impact by making a financial gift to support those in need.

The relief grants are intended for any person currently, or previously immediately prior to the COVID-19 outbreak, employed in Fort Worth's Near Southside who is facing a financial hardship in these professions: culinary, art, retail, entertainment, service and other.

To make a financial donation to the fund, donate via wegetbytogether.com, or use the PayPal app on your phone and direct payment to @southsidecares.

Newport Folk Festival COVID-19 Musician's Relief Fund

Newport Festivals Foundation has established the Newport Festivals Musician Relief Fund to provide financial relief to musicians in our Folk & Jazz communities experiencing a loss of income as a result of COVID-19 through rapid micro and full grants. Our focus and priority will be on artists who have played the Newport Jazz or Folk Festivals and those in our Rhode Island community. All other applications will be considered on a case by case basis.

SAG-AFTRA COVID-19 Disaster Fund

SAG-AFTRA members who are in an emergency financial crisis related to COVID-19 may request assistance to cover basic expenses like rent, mortgage, utilities and medical bills. To apply to the fund, members must have paid their dues through October 2019.

City of San Antonio's Individual Artist Grants (for up to $5,000) - NEW

The Department of Arts & Culture provides grants to qualifying artists based in San Antonio. These grants follow the Core Grant Program Guidelines and are aimed to support a diverse portfolio of artists working across the City of San Antonio in the production of new, original, high-quality art. Individual Artists Project Grants have the specific intent of expanding the artist's professional development through their creation of new works, which must be publicly displayed/performed in San Antonio during the contract period. All funding is predicated upon meeting eligibility requirements and the availability of funds.

TIMELINE

Intent to Apply - Opens March 9, 2021 and is due April 5, 2021 at 5:00 pm CST.

Applications will be accessible on April 9, 2021 to eligible artists who's Intent to Apply is approved.

Completed Applications are due June 8, 2021 at 5:00 pm CST.

Grants are made annually and are for an 18-month period beginning October 1, 2021 for the Fiscal Year 2022 cycle.

Spotify's COVID-19 Music Relief

The Spotify COVID-19 Music Relief project has been created to amplify the efforts of organizations that focus on helping those most in need, beginning with those listed below. Spotify is making a donation to these organizations and will match donations made via this page dollar for dollar up to a collective total of $10 million.

How it works:

Click the donate button on the page linked below for the organization that you want to support (the designated organization in the United States is MusiCares).
Donate directly to that organization via the link on Spotify's website.
Spotify will match your donation to the organizations listed dollar for dollar—up to the collective total value of $10 million.

Sun Radio Recharge Grant - Grant Funds Updated and Renewed - New Deadline is July 16

The Sun Radio Foundation has pledged an initial funding of $20,000 towards the “Sun Radio Recharge” COVID-19 relief program, giving Central Texas Musicians and Community Radio Stations nationwide the opportunity to apply for grants towards paying their electricity bills.

The 501C3 Not for Profit Sun Radio Foundation is now accepting applications for:

Sun Radio Recharge for Central Texas Musicians: The foundation has allocated initial funding in the amount of $10,000 for one-time gifts of up to $200 each for Local Austin and San Antonio area musicians and crew members who are struggling to pay electric bills.

Sun Radio Recharge for Community and Non-Commercial Radio Stations Nationwide: The foundation has allocated another $10,000 for one-time gifts of up to $250 each for Community Radio Stations throughout the country currently void of Corporation for Public Broadcasting funding, or tax-payer subsidies.

Sweet Relief's COVID-19 Fund

The world has been shocked by the devastating effects of COVID-19. We are aware of the enormous medical and financial burden that COVID-19 is having on the music community and we are actively taking steps to provide assistance where it’s needed most. Due to massive cancellations, artists are struggling to find the means to make ends meet during these unprecedented times.

Sweet Relief is here to provide immediate assistance and we have created this DONOR-DIRECTED FUND with a limited amount of funds available to be used specifically for musicians and music industry workers affected by the Coronavirus. Funds raised will go towards medical expenses, lodging, clothing, food and other vital living expenses to those impacted due to sickness or loss of work.Those wishing to apply must provide the following:

A completed Sweet Relief Application (scroll down after clicking link)
Supplementary documentation proving that at least 50% of all income comes from working within the music community
Proof of cancellations and bookings
Relevant medical documentation

Loans

Small Business Administration Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program

On March 17, 2020, Governor Greg Abbott requested the Economic Injury Disaster Declaration for all Texas counties through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). Today, Governor Abbott announced that the SBA has now granted Texas’ Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) assistance declaration, making loans available statewide to small businesses and private, non-profit organizations to help alleviate economic injury caused by the Coronavirus (COVID-19).

Next Steps: Small businesses who believe they may be eligible for an SBA EIDL should visit the SBA’s website where they can directly apply for assistance. The online application is the fastest method to receive a decision about loan eligibility.

For additional information on Texas business-related COVID-19 resources, including a list of required documentation for the SBA Loan process, visit gov.texas.gov/business/page/coronavirus.

We know this is a difficult time for all Texans. Please don’t hesitate to contact our office if we can provide any additional information.

Stay safe, keep healthy and continue to check in with us as we provide the latest updates and resources.

The overriding message of this time in history is that we are all in this together," said Governor Abbott. "From people responsibly remaining at home to protect themselves and their communities to the small businesses adapting to serve them, Texans are showing their willingness to serve the greater good and that’s why we’ll overcome this together. That’s what Texans do. We are not only Texas Strong, we are #TexasBizStrong.

The SBA recommends prospective applicants Start Now to assemble their documents required for the loan app, thus getting a head start on “step two” in the loan review process.

Below is the list of ten documents prospect applicants should assemble and scan to prepare for uploading them into the EIDL website, in addition to forms required by SBA.

Corporate governance documents; e.g., Articles of Incorporation, Articles of Organization (for LLC), or Registration of Sole Proprietorship
Written statement justifying the nature and scope of economic injury and how/why nature of business was adversely impacted by the Coronavirus (one page/no more than two), such as loss of revenues, cancelled contracts, interrupted supply chain, etc., that resulted in economic injury
Current Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable Aging as of date of filing for the loan
Three (3) years’ 1040 Federal Income Tax Returns for the business & owners
Three (3) years’ company FYE Income Statement and Balance Sheet and latest YTD Financial Statements (Company prepared is acceptable)
Company and Owners’ Debt Schedule Tables [e.g., Lender, original loan amt., date, current balance, interest rate, collateral, purpose of loan, guarantors, status (e.g., current or past due with explanation) per row in table]
Monthly two (2) years’ cash flow projections
Three (3) years’ Monthly Sales History up to date of filing for loan
Current copies of owners’ credit reports from the three (3) credit bureaus with explanations for any negative reports
Required SBA Forms:

IRS Form 4506-T
Personal Financial Statement (SBA Form 413)
Schedule of Liabilities & Fixed Assets (SBA Form 2202)
Monthly Sales (SBA Form 1368)
Home Loan (SBA Form 5c), if applicable

All forms and further details are available on the SBA Disaster Loan website sba.gov/disaster. Click on the Coronavirus link at the top of the page.

International Bluegrass Music Association’s BlueGrass Trust Fund

Unemployment Assistance

Unemployment Assistance for Texas Workers

If your employment has been affected by COVID-19, the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) encourages you to apply for benefits by utilizing the online claim portal, or by calling the Tele-Center at 800-939-6631 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Central Standard Time, Monday through Friday.

TWC may be experiencing increased call volumes and hold times on Tele-Center phone lines. You are encouraged to use the online claim portal, Unemployment Benefits Services (UBS), to handle your claim needs quickly. UBS is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You may also sign up for electronic correspondence so you can receive TWC communications online as soon as possible.

TWC will investigate why you lost your job and mail a decision explaining whether you are eligible for unemployment benefits.

For additional information and resources for job seekers, visit TWC's webpage: twc.texas.gov/news/covid-19-resources-job-seekers.