The City of Galveston’s Arts and Historical Preservation Advisory Board is currently accepting applications for grant funding, with a submission deadline of March 15, 2025. This funding opportunity supports non-profit organizations involved in arts and historical preservation projects within the city. The grant program is funded through a dedicated portion of the city’s hotel-motel occupancy tax, specifically a set-aside of 6/8 of a penny from the hotel tax rate. These funds are distributed every two years to support eligible activities that enhance tourism, historical preservation, and cultural promotion.

The primary objectives of the funding are to support projects that directly promote and market Galveston to visitors, produce special events that attract tourists, and support preservation or commemoration of historically significant sites, structures, and events within the city. Applicants must demonstrate how their proposed projects will increase tourism and visitation, particularly by showcasing Galveston’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Eligible applicants must be non-profit organizations that meet a series of criteria. Organizations must demonstrate current tax-exempt status, have been in operation for at least one full calendar year prior to the application deadline, and provide financial statements reflecting at least one year of operational activity. In addition, organizations must be headquartered in Galveston and offer programming or events that are accessible to both city residents and visitors.

Further requirements include submitting an organizational history and philosophy statement with the application, showing that requested funds from this grant do not exceed 20 percent of the organization’s operational budget, and agreeing to comply with all applicable city ordinances and procurement policies. Applications must be submitted online using the City’s designated form.

Questions about the application process can be directed to the City Secretary’s Office at 409-797-3510. All applications must be received by March 15, 2025, and late submissions will not be considered. This grant opportunity provides a valuable funding source for local non-profits to enhance Galveston’s tourism economy through arts programming and historical preservation projects.