About the Fellowship

We need your help in bringing the culture and making Downtown Austin the vibrant and connected place it needs to become.   

Videos produced in this fellowship will be used in the XOXO Spring campaign, Live from Downtown Austin,including love letter-style language, text overlays and color palette. Imagery will feature people enjoying events of all types, live performances, downtown businesses, people who make Austin special, and some downtown Austin Alliance events. Some concepts will be pre-selected for the fellow.

The application will be open for 3 weeks starting January 26, 2026 with a non-refundable application fee of $25 that will go back into the program. Within one week of the application closing, applicants will be evaluated and selected based on the evaluations. You must be available for an onboarding session on the evening of March 5 to be selected for the program.  

Two to three applicants will be selected as fellows this round. Each fellow will receive a $2000 stipend and the fellowship will run between March and May.  

During the program, fellows will meet with a mentor a minimum of four times. It is recommended to use those meetings for:  

• a Shooting Session 
• an Editing Session 
• Check-ins  
• Shadowing 
• Business Mentorship 

Fellows will also meet with Downtown Austin Alliance staff for regular check-ins and produce high-quality videos and b-roll to be used in the XOXO advertising campaigns with credits to the videographer.  

About the XOXO Downtown Austin Campaign 

To make sure there is a place for everyone downtown where they belong. 

XOXO Downtown Austin is a place-love campaign to bring Austinites and downtown back together. 

The Downtown Austin Alliance aims to bring and keep people downtown where everyone is welcomed because of the unique perspectives each one of us brings to our city. Our job is to create a sense of belonging and empower you to build a vibrant, connected, authentic community in Downtown Austin. We’ll do our part by connecting people with opportunities to get involved.  

The campaign is designed to be a “love letter” to Austinites, creatives, small business owners, commercial real estate owners urging them to engage with Downtown Austin to keep it weird and bolster its status as Austin’s urban core for everyone. By using “relationship” language we encourage our audience to continue reading, with the use of the “xoxoDowntownAustin.com” sign off and call to action, we will encourage page visits and interactions.    

Timeline 

• Application Period: 3 weeks (January 26 - February 17) 
• Selection Process: Selected applicants will be contacted for interviews (if necessary) and notified by February 28
• Onboarding on March 5
• Residency: 10 Weeks in Spring of 2025 (March - May)        

Application Requirements 

• Video portfolio (Minimum of 4 videos required for application) 
• Link to personal website (if available) 
• $25 non-refundable application fee 
• Reliable access to transportation and videography equipment 

About the Fellowship

We need your help bringing the culture and perspective to Downtown Austin to make it the vibrant and connected place it needs to become.   

Images produced in this fellowship will be used in the XOXO campaign, Downtown Austin Alliance marketing materials including reports, social media, website, print and web ads. Our team will add fellowship photos to graphics including but not limited to:

• love letter-style language 
• text overlays  
• color palette 

Images will feature various aspects of downtown lifestyle including people connecting at iconic downtown locations, office culture, events, live music, downtown spaces and more.

The application will be open for at least 3 weeks starting January 26, 2026 with a non-refundable application fee of $25 that will go back into the program. Within two weeks of the application closing, applicants will be evaluated and selected for interviews if needed or notified. You must be available for an onboarding session on XX to be selected for the program.  

Two photography applicants will be selected as fellows for the Spring 2026 Fellowships. Each fellow will receive a $1200 stipend and each fellowship will last 10-weeks during 2026. 

During the program, fellows will meet with a mentor a minimum of four times. It is recommended to use those meetings for:  

• a Shooting Session
• an Editing Session 
• Check-ins  
• Shadowing
• Business Mentorship 

Fellows will also meet with Downtown Austin Alliance staff for regular check-ins and produce 20 high-quality photos to be used in the XOXO advertising campaigns with credits to the photographer. 

About the XOXO Downtown Austin Campaign 

Purpose: To make sure there is a place for everyone downtown where they belong. 

XOXO Downtown Austin is a place-love campaign to bring Austinites and downtown back together. 

The Downtown Austin Alliance aims to bring and keep people downtown where everyone is welcomed because of the unique perspectives each one of us brings to our city. Our job is to create a sense of belonging and empower you to build a vibrant, connected, authentic community in Downtown Austin. We’ll do our part by connecting people with opportunities to get involved.  

The campaign is designed to be a “love letter” to Austinites, creatives, small business owners, commercial real estate owners urging them to engage with Downtown Austin to keep it weird and bolster its status as Austin’s urban core for everyone. By using “relationship” language we encourage our audience to continue reading, with the use of the “xoxoDowntownAustin.com” sign off and call to action, we will encourage page visits and interactions. 

Timeline 

• Application Period: 3 weeks (January 26 - February 17) 
• Selection Process: Selected applicants will be contacted for interviews (if necessary) and notified by February 28
• Onboarding on March 5
• Residency: 10 Weeks in Spring of 2025 (March - May)        

Application Requirements 

• Photo portfolio (Minimum of 7 photos required for application) 
• Link to personal website (if available) 
• $25 non-refundable application fee 
• Reliable access to transportation and photography equipment 

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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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.

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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.