Membership Partners
Black Ocean is an award-winning independent publisher based in Boston and Chicago. From early silent films to early punk rock, Black Ocean brings together a spectrum of influences to produce books of exceptional quality and content. In conjunction with its book releases, Black Ocean manifests its aesthetic in celebrations around the country. The publisher believes in the fissures art can create in consciousness when, even if just for a moment, we experience a more vital way of operating in the world—and through that moment, seek out more extreme and enlightened modes of existence. Black Ocean believes in the freedom found through enlightened modes of existence and is committed to promoting artists they firmly believe in by sharing their enthusiasm for their work with a global audience.
Copper Canyon Press is a renowned publisher of extraordinary poetry from around the world, established in 1972. With a commitment to engaging readers' imaginations and intellects, the Press has built an international reputation for its dedication to authors and the poetry audience. Over the decades, Copper Canyon has published over 400 titles, including works by Nobel Laureates, Pulitzer Prize-winners, and National Book Award-winners. Operating as a nonprofit since 1990, the Press thrives thanks to the support of its community, which enables it to continue its mission of bringing vital poetry to life.
Film Forum is New York City's only autonomous nonprofit cinema, established in 1970 as a space for independent films. Under the leadership of Karen Cooper, who directed the organization from 1972 to 2023, Film Forum grew from its humble beginnings into a four-screen theater on Houston Street, known for premiering American independents, foreign art films, and classic repertory selections. Today, Film Forum remains dedicated to presenting diverse and socially relevant films, supported by a $6 million operating budget and a community of over 6,500 members.
The New York Philharmonic is one of the world’s most renowned orchestras, established in 1842, making it the oldest symphony orchestra in the United States. With a rich history spanning over 180 years, the Philharmonic has become synonymous with artistic excellence, innovation, and community engagement. The orchestra is celebrated for its dynamic performances, diverse programming, and commitment to both classical and contemporary works.
New York Theatre Workshop (NYTW) is a pioneering force in the world of theater, established in 1979. Located in the East Village, NYTW is renowned for its commitment to developing innovative, bold, and thought-provoking productions that push the boundaries of storytelling and explore the human experience.
Nightboat Books, a nonprofit organization, seeks to develop audiences for writers whose work resists convention and transcends boundaries, by publishing books rich with poignancy, intelligence, and risk.
The Nuyorican Poets Café has served as a home for groundbreaking works of poetry, music, theater, and visual arts for the last 50 years. A multicultural and multi-arts institution, the Café gives voice to a diverse group of rising poets, actors, filmmakers, and musicians. The Café champions the use of poetry, jazz, theater, hip-hop, and spoken word as means of social empowerment for minority and underprivileged artists. The community of spectators, artists, and students is a reflection of New York City’s diverse population; the late American poet Allen Ginsberg called the Café “the most integrated place on the planet.”
Poets & Writers is the nation’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to serving creative writers. Its mission is to foster the professional development of poets and writers, promote communication throughout the literary community, and create an environment in which literature can be appreciated by the widest possible audience. Each year, tens of thousands of poets, fiction writers, and creative nonfiction writers benefit from Poets & Writers' programs, which include its eponymous magazine, a dynamic, information-rich website, financial support for readings and other literary events, and sponsorship of several notable writing prizes and awards.
Urban Word champions youth voice by providing platforms for literacy, self-expression, civic engagement, and leadership through free creative writing, college prep workshops, and performance opportunities. Urban Word equips young people to harness their power as leaders at the intersection of the literary arts and civic engagement. As the founder of the National Youth Poet Laureate Program, Urban Word celebrates youth for their excellence as writers and their impact on their communities. Through the transformative power of the written and spoken word, Urban Word offers young, creative voices—often those who are marginalized—the tools, training, and platforms to rewrite the narratives that shape their lives and their communities.
Wave Books is an independent poetry press based in Seattle, Washington, dedicated to publishing poetry and books by poets.
Sponsors, Partners, & Funders
Established in 1934, the Academy of American Poets is the largest membership-based nonprofit organization fostering an appreciation for contemporary poetry in the United States. Through initiatives like National Poetry Month, Poets.org, and its educational programs, the Academy supports poets at all stages of their careers and promotes the reading and writing of poetry across the country.
Founded in 1988, Brooklyn Brewery is a New York-based brewery known for its innovative craft beers. With a commitment to quality and community, Brooklyn Brewery has become a leading name in the craft beer movement, offering a range of brews that reflect the spirit and creativity of Brooklyn. The brewery is also involved in numerous cultural and arts initiatives, making it a vibrant part of the city's cultural fabric.
Established in 1999, CavanKerry Press is a nonprofit literary press dedicated to expanding the reach of poetry and prose. Based in New Jersey, the press focuses on publishing works that explore the emotional and intellectual landscapes of human experience. CavanKerry is committed to bringing underrepresented voices to the forefront and making literature accessible to diverse audiences.
Hunt Auctioneers is a leading auction house specializing in the sale of fine art, antiques, and collectibles. With a reputation for integrity and expertise, Hunt Auctioneers connects buyers and sellers through curated auctions that highlight the beauty and value of exceptional items. The company serves a global clientele, offering a personalized approach to each auction experience.
Music Before 1800 is the longest running early music concert series in New York City. We have been presenting vocal and instrumental chamber music at Corpus Christi Church for over 45 years, with programs of sacred and secular music ranging from Medieval to early Classical. Offering artists of the highest caliber, we present audience favorites as well as rising stars. Our artists, including New York’s finest ensembles, come from across the United States, Canada and Europe.
Established by Congress in 1965, the National Endowment for the Arts is an independent federal agency that supports and funds artistic excellence, creativity, and innovation throughout the United States. The NEA awards grants to artists, organizations, and communities to foster access to the arts, encourage cultural diversity, and support the creation of new works.
The New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) is a state agency dedicated to preserving and expanding access to the arts in New York. Founded in 1960, NYSCA provides grants, funding, and support to arts organizations and artists across the state, ensuring that the arts remain a vibrant and integral part of New York's cultural landscape.
The NYC Department of Cultural Affairs (DCLA) is the largest municipal funder of arts and culture in the United States. The department is committed to supporting and promoting New York City's vibrant cultural life by providing funding, resources, and advocacy for artists and cultural organizations. DCLA's work ensures that arts and culture remain accessible and enriching for all New Yorkers.
The New School is a progressive university located in New York City known for its rigorous approach to education and its commitment to social justice. The New School offers a range of programs in the arts, design, social sciences, and humanities, encouraging students to challenge conventions and explore new ideas. The university's innovative curriculum and diverse community make it a hub for creative and intellectual exploration.
Open Late Digital is a creative digital agency specializing in the design and development of websites, digital content, and marketing strategies. The agency works with a range of clients to create compelling digital experiences that engage audiences and drive results. Open Late Digital combines creativity and technical expertise to deliver innovative solutions in the digital landscape.
The Poetry Foundation, publisher of Poetry magazine, is an independent literary organization committed to a vigorous presence for poetry in our culture. Established in 2003 with a significant gift from philanthropist Ruth Lilly, the foundation seeks to discover and celebrate the best poetry and to place it before the largest possible audience. The Poetry Foundation is dedicated to building a better understanding of poetry through its publications, events, and educational initiatives.
Radio Drama Network is an organization dedicated to the production and promotion of high-quality audio dramas. It seeks to revive and sustain the art of radio drama through contemporary productions that reach new audiences. By supporting writers, actors, and producers, the network aims to create compelling narratives that engage listeners and explore the full potential of audio storytelling.