Austin News

The City of Austin Economic Development Department has created an Austin Live Music Venue Preservation Fund to help music venues stay afloat amid the current COVID-19 crisis.

The Austin City Council approved the $15 million Save Austin’s Vital Economic Sectors (SAVES) Fund. 

“Live music venues strengthen our cultural and economic ecosystem and contribute to Austin’s international appeal,” Veronica Briseño, Austin’s Chief Economic Recovery Officer, said. “Our team worked with the Long Center to quickly open the application portal one week after Council approved the guidelines. Our goal is to have the money flow to live music venues before the end of the month. This critical support will help sustain our music venues until it is safe for them to reopen.”

Fund applications and eligibility guidelines available online or by calling 512-457-5181.

“The Long Center is excited to be able to support the City and our music community by providing this critical community service,” Cory Baker, President and CEO of the Long Center, said. “This opportunity aligns with our strategic goals to serve as a conduit and resource to the creative sector and a partner supporting the city’s efforts. As the creative community continues to struggle through the pandemic, preserving performance spaces across the city is vital. We are ready to roll up our sleeves and get assistance out quickly.”