The Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs, through a program managed by the Houston Arts Alliance, has awarded $14.7 million in grants to local artists and cultural nonprofits for 2025. Funded by the city’s Hotel Occupancy Tax, the grants will support 102 individuals and 156 organizations presenting public exhibitions, performances, and other cultural programs in Houston, according to the City of Houston.

Necole S. Irvin, head of Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs, stated that "Houston’s diverse arts and cultural offerings provide tremendous service to our community, attract visitors and support a strong creative sector." The Houston Arts Alliance is seeking community feedback and new ideas for its summer grant competition. Applicants have at least a month to apply, with Houston Arts Alliance providing workshops and assistance. The selection process includes an initial eligibility review by Houston Arts Alliance staff, followed by evaluations from a panel of approximately 130 independent arts professionals, as reported by the City of Houston.

The Houston Arts Alliance is allocating nearly $1 million for BIPOC artists who pass the peer panel stage, providing a 45% funding increase up to $20,000. Organizations must meet at least three of five criteria to qualify. The Houston Arts Alliance newsletter provides updates on grantees and funding. The Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs focuses on arts access and tourism, while Houston Arts Alliance supports the city's cultural economy. More information is available at www.houstontx.gov/culturalaffairs and www.houstonartsalliance.com, or on social media @HoustonMOCA and @HoustonArtsAlliance, as stated by the City of Houston.