Register for NIVF EVENTS

Event poster for a community development session featuring Sharon Yazowski, President and CEO of Levitt Foundation. The session is scheduled for January 8, 2026, at 2:30 pm ET, and is presented in partnership with Levitt Foundation. The poster includes a black and white photo of Sharon Yazowski, logos for the Levitt Foundation and the event branding, and a colorful gradient background.

Bringing Communities Together: Community Partnerships, fundraising & Levitt Festival Grant opportunities

Join the National Independent Venue Foundation (NIVF), the National Independent Venue Association (NIVA), and the Levitt Foundation for a practical, development-focused session on how independent venues can successfully present free outdoor festivals in partnership with their communities.

This workshop will walk through the essential steps—from securing a fiscal sponsor (for venues that aren’t nonprofits) and building strong community collaborations, to crafting an effective fundraising strategy and tapping into resources provided by the Levitt Foundation. Participants will also receive an overview of the 2026 Levitt Festival Grant program, including key requirements, tips for building a competitive proposal, and insights into how these grants support vibrant, free outdoor music experiences nationwide.

With Levitt Festival Grant applications closing on January 29, this January 8 session ensures venues have three full weeks to refine and submit strong proposals.

Instructed by: Sharon Yazowski, President & CEO, Levitt Foundation


Date: Thursday, January 8, 2025 | 2:30pm ET