AUSTIN, Tex., January 3, 2025 – Torch Literary Arts (Torch), a nonprofit organization dedicated to amplifying Black women writers, was recently granted the Thrive Grant from the City of Austin Cultural Arts Division of the Economic Development Department, a local initiative to support Torch’s 2025 programming.

This is Torch’s second time being awarded the Thrive grant. The grant provides programmatic and organizational funding to help curate events that continue amplifying Black women writers and their supporters.

Thrive grant awards range from $85,000-$150,000 and provide focused investment to sustain and grow arts organizations that are deeply rooted in and reflective of Austin’s diverse cultures. This year Torch was one of 35 arts and cultural nonprofits awarded. The organization was also an inaugural recipient in 2022.

About Torch Literary Arts

Torch Literary Arts (TORCH) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit established with love and intention in 2006 to publish and promote creative writing by Black women. We publish contemporary writing by experienced and emerging writers alike. TORCH has featured work by Toi Derricotte, Tayari Jones, Sharon Bridgforth, Crystal Wilkinson, Patricia Smith, Natasha Trethewey, Elizabeth Alexander, and others. Programs include the Wildfire Reading Series, writing workshops, and retreats.

Help TORCH continue to publish and promote Black women writers by donating today.

City of Austin Cultural Arts Division

The Economic Development Department's Cultural Arts Division manages the City’s cultural arts programs and provides leadership for the economic development of Austin's creative economy.

Media Contact Information:

Brittany Heckard

Communications Associate

bheckard@torchliteraryarts.org 

(512) 641-9251