Arts and Heritage Grant

The Arts and Heritage Grant program, administered by the City of New Braunfels, Texas, is funded through the Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) as authorized under Texas law and city ordinance. Beginning October 1, 2025, nonprofit arts and heritage organizations can apply for funding aimed at promoting tourism and enhancing the city's cultural vibrancy. Fifteen percent of HOT revenue is earmarked annually for arts and cultural programming, with an equal split between arts-focused and heritage-focused initiatives. The City Council allocated approximately $737,812 for arts and heritage projects from 2025 revenues, though annual funding amounts are subject to the prior year’s tax collections. Arts-related funding supports a wide array of disciplines including, but not limited to, instrumental and vocal music, dance, drama, folk art, creative writing, architecture, painting, photography, sculpture, graphic and craft arts, as well as media such as film, radio, and sound recording. Heritage-related grants are directed toward projects involving historical restoration and preservation, or efforts that encourage tourism through the promotion of historic sites or museums. In both categories, applicants must demonstrate how their project contributes directly to tourism and the local convention and hotel industry. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt nonprofit organizations, as defined by the IRS and Texas Tax Code Section 351. The project must take place in New Braunfels and be open to the public. Funding may not be used to cover deficits, closed events, or activities that do not enhance tourism. Additionally, organizations must match at least 50% of the total project cost, with allowable sources including in-kind contributions and other forms of cash support. The application process opens at 8:00 a.m. on October 1, 2025, and closes at 5:00 p.m. on October 31, 2025. Applications must be submitted online and include a completed budget form and documentation of nonprofit status. Following submission, applications are reviewed based on three weighted criteria: impact on tourism and hotel activity (50%), alignment with the city’s mission (25%), and the applicant’s capacity to complete the project (25%). Recommendations are made by the city’s Arts and Heritage Commissions before final approval by City Council. Successful grantees will receive 50% of their award at the beginning of the calendar year. The remaining amount is reimbursed after grantees demonstrate that they have spent the initial funds and submit required quarterly and final reports. All funded organizations must enter into a contract with the city and adhere to detailed reporting requirements to remain in compliance. The grant program does not recur automatically but has been run on an annual basis, with future cycles contingent upon HOT revenue and council appropriation.

Emphasize how the project increases hotel activity; clearly document anticipated tourism draw and overnight stays; include promotional plans targeting non-local audiences.