VIBE AWARD CALL FOR VIBE WEEKEND EVENT PROPOSALS

——————— INTRODUCTION

ABOUT VIBE DOWNTOWN — Everyone is welcome to discover Downtown. In 2025, the Downtown Austin Alliance Foundation will launch a new annual event series to amplify the art, culture and vibe of Austin, Texas.
 

Designed to help everyone discover underutilized spaces, these activations will occur in collaboration with a number of community partners – all working together to bolster creative industries and enhance visitorship Downtown. 

——————— ABOUT THIS OPEN CALL

Are you a creative or artist hosting (or hoping to host) cultural events in Downtown Austin? Consider applying for our first annual Open Call for Vibe Weekend. 

For the first time, Downtown Austin Alliance Foundation invites independent creatives, artists, and cultural workers in Austin to submit event proposals for Vibe Weekend, an event celebrating the “vibe” of Austin in downtown spaces. This collaborative pilot program has been designed to bridge emerging gaps in economic prosperity and the urgent need to cultivate more culture and community downtown. 

Vibe Weekend will transform the historic 500 block of Old 6th Street on September 19 & 20, showcasing Austin's vibrant culture through local makers, murals, and music. The event will take place at two venues:

• 508 E Sixth Street, Austin, TX 78701
• 522 E Sixth Street Parking Lot, Austin, TX 78701
   

Interested applicants are invited to submit proposals for independent experiences at Vibe Weekend. Each awarded applicant will be supplied with a $6,000 budget to produce the experience, as well as access to Vibe Weekend venues and locations. Interested applicants should submit projects that align with this year’s themes, selected locations, as well as scoring criteria.

Apply now to be part of this exciting opportunity to make your mark on the vibrant cultural landscape of our city. Create the vibe. 

VIBE DOWNTOWN GOALS —

• Support Local Economy: Encourages funded opportunities for cultural events Downtown, as well as cultural projects by independent creatives and small businesses, while encouraging local visitorship to Downtown Austin district
• Drive Strong Austin Storytelling: Drives memory-building & organic storytelling for Downtown Austin through experiential events
• Built Environment Belonging: Creates opportunities for new and traditionally underrepresented stakeholders in Downtown Austin’s built environment, collecting year-over-year data on the impact of arts and culture Downtown

WHY VIBE DOWNTOWN EXISTS — 

Downtown Austin Alliance’s Active Urbanism team partnered with Future Front Texas and community groups to create the Artists & Creatives Thrive Community Engagement Report. This report explores ways to support culture and opportunity Downtown. Through this public engagement process, Vibe Downtown and VibeWeekend were born.
 

Why Arts, Culture, and Community Matter

Integrating arts and culture into underutilized spaces makes Downtown Austin more engaging and connected. Public art, performances, festivals, and creative placemaking bring energy to the city, encouraging exploration and interaction. These elements strengthen identity, social bonds, and economic growth—making Austin a more vibrant place for everyone. Learn more via “Artists and Creatives Thrive Report (2023/24).”
 

——————— HOW TO APPLY

AWARD SUMMARY —

Project Submission Deadline: May 5, 2025 at 5:00 PM

Timeline:

• April 3, 2025 — Vibe Award Open Call Released
• May 5, 2025 — Vibe Award Open Call Closes
• May 27, 2025 — Awardees Identified
• September 19 & 20,  2025 — Funded Events Held

Available Awards: A total of five (5) Vibe Weekend Awards will be distributed. Each selected project will be supplied with a $6,000 budget to produce the experience.

Location/Venues: Old 6th Street with venues located at 508 E Sixth Street, Austin, TX 78701 and 522 E Sixth Street Parking Lot, Austin, TX 78701

This award gives you the chance to bring people together and make a difference in the community. Here’s what you get:

• Funding to create a project that shows what discovering Downtown Austin means to you for Vibe Weekend.
• Access to designated spaces and resources at the Vibe Weekend location
• Opportunities to meet, work with, and learn from fellow creatives and industry professionals.
• Access to a full year of ongoing learning opportunities to enhance your skills, career growth and professional development.
• A key role in shaping future Downtown Austin Space Activation programs.
   

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS 

Each Vibe Weekend project proposal must align with Downtown Austin Alliance’s 2023-2028 Strategic Plan by amplifying one of these six themes:     

1. Hyperlocal Storytelling
2. Community Histories & Futures
3. Experiential Design & Interactivity
4. Creative Community Belonging
5. Intentional Cultural Diversity
6. Cultural Environmentalism

And:

• Must elevate the theme of discovering downtown Austin
• Must articulate an intended audience & how the audience relates to Austin’s history or demographics
• Vibe Awards must be utilized for a public event or experience 
• Each project proposal must be held on the approved date and location for Vibe Weekend.
• Applicants must have an online presence and present supporting media metrics from past events to help illustrate the overall level of experience.
• Applicants must demonstrate their ability to produce a similarly scaled event by providing:

1.  Sample Budget:

• Includes a standardized artist fee for all talent
• Outlines all major expenses to show event feasibility
• Total budget amount

       2. Minimum & Maximum Capacity Numbers and Total Attendance

       3. Event Layout & Detailed Site Map

Thank you for your interest in becoming a Downtown Austin Alliance Ally! Our volunteer opportunities provide a chance to engage with the community, support public spaces, and contribute to the vibrancy of downtown Austin.

DASA Community Activator

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*We are currently accepting activations through April 1st, 2025

The Downtown Austin Space Activation (DASA) Program is designed to breathe new life into vacant or underutilized spaces downtown. By partnering with property owners, local businesses, and community stakeholders, this program seeks to create dynamic spaces that not only attract foot traffic but also stimulate economic activity, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of downtown, and providing opportunities for entrepreneurship and creativity to flourish.

Activation programming typically refers to the planning, coordination, and execution of a series of events, initiatives, or campaigns designed to engage, excite, or "activate" a specific audience or community.

The emphasis is on fostering interaction, creativity, and connection among participants utilizing our DASA program. Whether it's themed exhibitions, live performances, hands-on workshops, or community gatherings, activations programming seeks to enliven public spaces, generate buzz, and leave a lasting impact on both individuals and the community as a whole.

. 

DASA Objectives 

Revitalize Downtown

Transform vacant storefronts into vibrant hubs. Revitalize commercial corridors and main streets.

Support Local Businesses

Provide affordable and flexible spaces for entrepreneurs, artisans, and small businesses to showcase their offerings. Help them establish a presence and grow customer bases.

Catalyze Economic Growth

Stimulate spending and investment in our local economy. Attract patrons to explore an array of downtown spaces.

Foster Community Engagement

Create gathering spaces. Promote social interaction, cultural exchanges, and civic pride. Strengthen a sense of belonging and connection.

Proposal for community programming. A complete proposal will include:

* Proposals must be submitted at least 8 weeks before the activation date no later than 2 weeks prior to the activation. 

1. A clear description of your workshop/class/program concept
2. Date(s) and times of activation 
3. Tentative run of show
4. A description of how your program aligns with the DASA objectives

Space Specifics

• Central space Downtown
• indoor & outdoor spaces 
• Capacity between 200-3,000
• Multi-use spaces 
• Bathroom and water access
   

Fee structure

501(c)(3) Non-Profit Activator:    $250 per day + Refundable $150 Deposit 

For-Profit Activator:                 $350 per day + Refundable $150 Deposit  

***If you are a for-profit or non-profit organization that makes over $250,000 annually with proof of 990 forms you are subject to rate adjustments***
 

DASA SPACE OPTIONS

Site visits are available Wednesdays 11-12:30 

506 Congress Ave 

 2,000 sq ft

Capacity- up to 150 

Other locations available for activation

The Downtown Austin Alliance Foundation either manages or is directly in contact with the management of the following areas. These areas are available for activation pending approval.

1. Old Bakery Emporium 
2. 301 Congress Porch 
3. Republic Square  (Republic Square is subject to its own guidelines and separate applications for rentals. Please refer to the Event Guide for more information.)

DASA Property Interest 

The Downtown Austin Space Activation (DASA) Program is designed to breathe new life into vacant or underutilized spaces downtown. By partnering with property owners, local businesses, and community stakeholders, this program seeks to create dynamic spaces that not only attract foot traffic but also stimulate economic activity, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of downtown, and providing opportunities for entrepreneurship and creativity to flourish.

Thank you for your interest in partnering with the Downtown Austin Space Activation (DASA) Program to revitalize vacant or underutilized spaces downtown. By collaborating with property owners like you, local businesses, and community stakeholders, we aim to create vibrant hubs of activity that contribute to the cultural and economic vitality of downtown Austin, while supporting the flourishing of local artists.

Why Partner?

Community Impact

Directly contribute to the vibrancy of downtown.Your generosity creates a more inviting environment that benefits residents, visitors, and businesses alike.

Social Responsibility

Support initiatives that strengthen your community. Your donation will contribute to the social fabric and sense of belonging in our downtown.

Publicity and Recognition

Your generosity will be publicly acknowledged through various channels, including our website, social media platforms, press releases, and signage.

Be a Trusted Champion

We will work directly with you to activate the space, highlight your participation, and drive foot traffic to the space. We facilitate all aspects of the partnership to ensure positive outcomes.

Support for Entrepreneurs

The program provides a supportive environment for entrepreneurs and small businesses to test new ideas, build customer relationships, and grow their ventures, strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem and fostering

innovation.

Vitality

Vibrant storefront and public space activations create attractive and welcoming public spaces that encourage social interaction, cultural exchange, and civic engagement, fostering a stronger sense of community identity and pride.

Urban Revitalization

Revitalized storefronts and commercial districts contribute to the physical and social rejuvenation of downtown Austin, making it a more desirable place to work, visit, live, and invest.

Improved Perceptions of Safety

Public space activation contributes to improved perceptions of safety by increasing visibility, fostering social cohesion, creating positive atmospheres through programming and events, and enhancing design and maintenance standards. As a result, people feel more comfortable and secure utilizing public spaces, leading to a greater sense of safety and well-being in the community as a whole.

Economic Impact

Increased foot traffic and sales for local businesses, job creation, and enhanced property occupancy and values contribute to a more resilient and prosperous local economy.
 

Please fill out the following form to express your interest in participating in the DASA Program:

While the deadline for committee applications for 2023-2024 has passed, we are always accepting applications for future service. Seats are limited but applications will be kept on file for two years and will be the starting point for filling future committee vacancies.

Be The Change You Want To See in Downtown

Are you looking for a way to use your expertise to make downtown Austin an even better place? The Downtown Austin Alliance is seeking volunteers to join our working committees. These committees advance the community’s vision for downtown by supporting our strategic plan priorities. The mission of the Downtown Austin Alliance is to create, preserve and enhance the vibe, vitality and value of downtown Austin for everyone. Dedicated to downtown, our team of staff and volunteers is led by our six core values. These are our commitments to how we approach working toward our mission in everything we do: 

• Lead with Relentless Vision 
• Earn Trust 
• Inspire Passion 
• Foster Collaboration 
• Mindfully Impact 
• Cultivate Inclusivity

We opened our committees to community applications this year because we know we cannot achieve our goals alone. If selected, you may participate in committee work to keep downtown safe and welcoming to everyone, spearhead new downtown murals, make public policy recommendations to our board of directors, or create innovative and engaging ways to activate our parks and public spaces. Each of our committees will be composed of Downtown Austin Alliance board members and community members. We are looking for volunteers to serve on these four committees: 

Mobility Committee –

• Five-Year Goal: Downtown is easier and more enjoyable to access and move within, has enhanced pedestrian and transportation facilities, and improved connections to neighboring communities. 
• Focus: This year, the Mobility Committee’s priorities include the City of Austin CoreTransportation Plan, a subsidized parking program for venues and service employees, and regional and downtown best practices for construction mitigation, among other issues and projects. 
• Needs: We are seeking experts in mobility user access and experience, multi-modal transportation, local/state/federal advocacy, parking, construction mitigation, and the mobility needs of downtown employees, tourists, and residents. 

Built Environment Committee –  

• Five-Year Goal: Downtown grows with a delightful and eclectic mix of modern investment and beautiful public spaces while preserving historic character and funky weirdness. 
• Focus: This year, the Built Environment Committee will work on an attainable housing event, development codes and policies, an implementation strategy for the Palm District Plan, the historic entertainment district (centered around E. 6th), and policies to enhance cultural and historic preservation, among other issues and projects. 
• Needs: We are seeking experts in public-private partnerships; architecture and urban design; urban housing; preservation; and downtown development, construction, and the land development code. 

Public Space Experience Committee – 

• Five-Year Goal: Downtown is clean, safe, and welcoming for everyone. 
• Focus: This year, the Public Space Experience Committee will work on a plan for improved social services delivery, scoping a maintenance service request app, increasing shelter beds, a  private camera interface with the Austin Police Department (APD), a night-time crime reduction pilot program, and a mural at Old Bakery, among other issues and projects.     
• Needs: We are seeking experts in homelessness, social service delivery, hospitality, public safety (especially night-time safety), social service systems, beautification, and activation of public spaces as a strategy to enhance perceptions of safety. 

Active Urbanism Committee – 

• Five-Year Goal: Downtown ignites, attracts, and cultivates authentic arts, culture, music, nature, and sense of place. 
• Focus: This year, the Active Urbanism Committee will work on a catalog of public spaces for activation, the Our Future 35 Cap and Stitch program, storefront activation, physical improvements at Republic Square, assessment of a possible partnership agreement for Old Bakery, our Writing on the Walls mural program, Musicians Activating Spaces, and scoping a flagship artist event, among other issues and projects. 
• Needs: We are seeking artists and creatives, landscape architects, and experts in parks and plazas, participatory engagement, heritage and history, public art, music, retail, placemaking, and storytelling. 

The Details 

• We encourage Downtown Austin Alliance members and non-members to apply. We do not require membership for committee service. 
• If selected, we ask for a commitment to regular attendance, preparation and participation in committee meetings and projects. 
• Committees meet roughly every other month for 1.5 hours, though they may meet more or less frequently as needed. Committee members may be encouraged or invited to read, explore, or attend additional events to enhance their familiarity with key issues. 
• Committees are advisory to the Downtown Austin Alliance Board of Directors. 
• Committee terms are from September/October 2023 to April 2025. 

To maximize committee effectiveness, our committees are small and active; we have limited opportunities to serve and may not be able to accept all who apply. The Downtown Austin Alliance values inclusivity and is committed to a culture of engagement that operates with consideration and respect for all. Therefore, we encourage Black, Brown, Indigenous, Latinx, and Asian applicants, women and applicants from other underrepresented or underserved communities to apply.