The investment of public funds in the arts is a sound investment with positive yield for the Greater Houston community.

City of Houston: As the undisputed leader in public support for the nonprofit arts sector in Greater Houston, the City of Houston’s investment in the arts for over 30 years has had a real impact in the development of a highly-regarded nonprofit arts sector that enhances the quality of life of our community and makes Houston a well-regarded destination for the cultural tourist.

The City supports the arts through several channels: (1) allocating 19 % of the municipal portion of the Hotel Occupancy Tax to support the arts through Houston Arts Alliance; (2) the operation and maintenance of public arts facilities such as the Wortham Center, Jones Hall, Miller Outdoor Theatre, TBH and Jones Plaza; (3) the investment of 1.75% of eligible capital projects in the Civic Art Program to enhance the city’s infrastructure; (4) allocation of Community Development Block Grants and other funds for after-school programs that include opportunities for arts and creative activities for youth.

For contact information for City of Houston elected officials, visit www.houstontx.gov/contactus/index.html

Harris County: Harris County provides $75,000 to the Cultural Arts Council to support arts programs primarily in the unincorporated areas of Harris County.

Metropolitan Transit Authority (METRO): In the development of its Main Street Light Rail line, METRO commissioned artists to design creative enhancements for the rail stations.

State of Texas: The State of Texas supports the arts through its allocations to the Texas Commission on the Arts. Many Houston arts organizations apply for and receive funding from the TCA.

To learn more about the TCA, visit www.arts.state.tx.us.


Federal Government: The main federal agency supporting the arts is the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), which operates a variety of grant programs to support arts and cultural projects nationwide. Many Houston arts organizations are recipients of NEA funds. To learn more about the NEA, visit www.arts.endow.gov.