DASA
Downtown Austin Space Activation
We saved a space for you.
The Downtown Austin’s Space Activation program (DASA) is our call to action for Austinites to take an active role in making downtown the place they want it to be. Through DASA, we’re transforming empty, underutilized spaces and are turning them into a platform for social impact, community connectivity, and inclusive prosperity. Through supporting diverse artists, business owners, and more, downtown sustains its vibrancy and cultivates economic, social, and cultural benefits.
A lack of affordable space poses barriers to many Austinites showcasing their talents downtown. Vacant storefronts and spaces downtown lead to fewer folks coming downtown to play, shop and explore. DASA bridges this gap by connecting artists, artisans, musicians, entrepreneurs, and creatives of all kinds with donated space and resources to bring their ideas to life, encouraging diversity and dynamism in our city.
The DASA program is made possible by the Downtown Austin Alliance Foundation. Learn more about our mission and give here.
calling all creatives
DASA Artist Residency
Want studio space? We've got it. In partnership with TRIBEZA, the DASA artist residency program provides space, exhibition and sales opportunities to creatives.
Apply by August 1⟶XOXO Photography Fellowship
Let's see downtown through your eyes. This 6-week program includes a stipend, mentorship and space to showcase your work.
Apply by August 9⟶Holiday Stroll Call for Vendors
Happy y'allidays! Bring your artisan goods and talents to this year's Holiday Sing-Along & Stroll.
Apply by August 1⟶details + dates
DASA Deep Dive
We'll answer common questions with a presentation and have a Q&A to answer any lingering questions you may have about the DASA program during this virtual open house on July 19.
Register Now⟶Self Care Happy Hour
Mindful Bridges is hosting a self-care happy hour in the DASA Space on July 26. Enjoy going over mindful practices, creative expression, yoga and gratitude and tap into your self-care.
RSVP Today⟶Community at DASA
Enjoy an array of featured artists and open mic presentations from local creatives and participate in a collaborative art installation with light refreshments on July 27.
Learn More⟶Community Art Sunday
Join us and Creative Action for a special Community Art Sunday on July 28 in partnership with the Carver Museum, Glass Half Full Theatre and Latinitas for this free family-friendly event.
RSVP Today⟶there's a space for you
Take Up Space
Want to become one of the first DASA Creatives? Apply today to bring your energy and ideas to a DASA space downtown.
Apply for Space⟶Activate Your Space
Have an empty or underused space downtown? Let us know. You have the space, we'll bring the magic.
Submit Your Space⟶Support
Don't have a space but still want to support DASA creatives and enhance downtown's vitality? Give today.
Donate Today⟶Our Goals
By partnering with property owners, local businesses, and community stakeholders, we can create dynamic spaces that not only attract foot traffic but also stimulate economic activity, enhance the aesthetic appeal of downtown, and provide opportunities for entrepreneurship and creativity to flourish.
To transform vacant storefronts into vibrant hubs. To revitalize commercial corridors and main streets.
To provide affordable and flexible spaces for entrepreneurs, artisans and small businesses. To help folks establish a presence downtown and grow customer bases.
To stimulate spending and investment in our local economy. To attract folks to explore an array of downtown spaces.
To create gathering spaces. To promote social gatherings, cultivating and sharing culture and encourage civic pride. To strengthen a sense of belonging and connection.
How DASA Works
Want to be our next DASA Creative? Here’s what you can expect from the process as an applicant:
Applicants send their ideas to the DASA Community Activator database
Selected applicants are matched with donated space and resources and become a DASA Creative
DASA Creatives use DASA space and resources to bring their ideas to life
Through the partnerships forged between DASA Creatives and donors, downtown becomes a more active, vibrant and inclusive place
DASA Participating Spaces
506 Congress Avenue
506 Congress Ave, Austin Texas 78701
Central Presbyterian Church
200 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701
Community Partners
Downtown Austin is better together; DASA is only made possible through the partnerships we cultivate and grow with intentionality. We’re proud to be uplifting the good work these organizations are already doing for Austinites through our DASA program.
Artists & Creatives Thrive Downtown Report
Prepared by Future Front
As Downtown Austin grows, centering diverse creatives continues to drive equity, economic growth and long-lasting culture. The Downtown Austin Alliance partnered with Future Front Texas for their community design framework and public engagement expertise on how we can best nurture downtown’s vibe and culture. This report identifies impact metrics for our cultural programs and initiatives and explores the possibility of a flagship event that centers creative communities and cultural development downtown.