Houston Arts Nonprofit BANF Rebrands as Houston In Color

The BIPOC Arts Network and Fund (BANF), a Houston-based arts advocacy nonprofit, has rebranded as Houston In Color, expanding its mission to support Black, Indigenous, and other artists and arts workers of color. Founded in 2021 through the Ford Foundation's America's Cultural Treasures initiative in response to COVID-19's economic impact, the organization initially distributed $2 million in grants to 120 Greater Houston artists and groups. Over five years, it pledged $12.4 million to BIPOC arts communities. In 2023, it launched the BANF Artist Awards ($20,000 each to 25 artists) and the $5 million Houston Cultural Treasures program (11 organizations received two-year grants). Executive Director Sixto A. Wagan, Jr. stated the new name reflects the community's vibrancy and diversity, while the commitment to strengthening Houston's creative infrastructure remains unchanged. No new programs have been announced, but the organization will continue as a connector, funder, and learning network.