District 1 Announces Music to Business Pilot Program

Published on July 16, 2025

SAN ANTONIO (July 16, 2025) — Councilmember Dr. Sukh Kaur and the District 1 Office are announcing the launch of the Music to Business Program, a new pilot program designed to support local small businesses and showcase San Antonio’s vibrant musical talent. The program kicks off Thursday, July 17, 2025, and will feature live performances every Thursday through Saturday until August 2, 2025.

The program is a response to several key challenges that local businesses have shared with the District 1 Office, especially reduced summer traffic, which makes it difficult for food and beverage businesses to stay afloat during the summer. The District 1 Office decided to pilot the Music to Business Program to test an idea to fund a program directly from the District 1 Office budget that would uplift the small business community and create meaningful opportunities for local musicians.

The Summer Sound Series matches local musicians from the City of San Antonio’s Artist Registry with participating small businesses in District 1. Each selected business will host a live, family-friendly performance with the goal of driving foot traffic, encouraging community connection and creating opportunities for local artists.

“This program is about strengthening our neighborhood economies while celebrating San Antonio’s creative spirit,” District 1 Councilmember Dr. Sukh Kaur said. “We’re putting dollars directly into the hands of local artists and giving businesses another reason to bring people through their doors. This is the kind of creative partnership our city needs more of.”

Performances will take place across a variety of neighborhood business types, from cafes and boutiques to bars and salons, and feature a wide range of musical styles, from relaxed acoustic sets to high-energy Latin and funk acts.

Business owners in District 1 can apply to participate on a rolling basis by filling out the form. Musicians interested in participating can sign up through the City’s Artist Registry. 

“The Music to Business Program is a fantastic example of how arts and culture can drive economic vitality in our neighborhoods,” Krystal Jones, Director of the Department of Arts & Culture said. “This pilot not only highlights the incredible talent in District 1, but also serves as a model for how culture can be a catalyst for recovery and growth citywide.”

Performances will be reshared via social media from participating businesses and artists. Follow @COSA_CD1 on social media and the hashtag #Music2Business to keep up with weekly schedules and featured performances