Anice Read Fund Program

The Anice Read Fund Grant is administered annually by Texas Downtown in collaboration with the Communities Foundation of Texas (CFT). Named in honor of Anice Read, a pivotal advocate for the revitalization and preservation of downtowns across Texas, this grant supports community-driven initiatives that enhance the historical and cultural fabric of local downtowns. The grant program commemorates over four decades of downtown development advocacy in Texas and continues Anice Read’s enduring legacy. Grants from the Anice Read Fund are available exclusively to members of Texas Downtown and must have a project scope centered on downtown development. Eligible uses include physical improvements, professional development, program expansion, and staff capacity building. Award amounts can reach up to $10,000 per project and are awarded once annually. The 2025 application cycle opens on June 1 and will close at midnight on Friday, August 29. All applicants must first schedule a phone call with Texas Downtown’s Executive Director, Tania Moody, before submitting a full application. This step is mandatory and ensures alignment with grant goals and eligibility criteria. The final deadline to submit the application is July 25 for initial approval, followed by full submission due August 29. Applications must demonstrate a clear focus on Texas downtowns and are evaluated for their potential to preserve heritage, support revitalization, and empower local capacity. While specific questions are not listed in the announcement, a downloadable application and presentation featuring past recipients are available to guide applicants through the process. To apply or inquire further, applicants should contact Tania Moody at tania@texasdowntown.org or text 512-472-7832 to schedule their required call. Since its inception, the fund has awarded over $243,900 in grants, helping Texas communities leverage over $8 million in additional support for their downtown revitalization efforts.

Schedule a required call with the executive director; watch the guidance presentation before applying.