POETOPIA WOULD NOT BE POSSIBLE WITHOUT OUR GENEROUS SPONSORS:
The Poetry Foundation
The Poetry Foundation is an independent literary organization based in Chicago, dedicated to amplifying poetry and celebrating poets by fostering inclusive spaces where people can create, experience, and share the written and spoken word. Originally founded in 1941 as the Modern Poetry Association to support Poetry magazine, the organization was reestablished in 2003 following a transformative bequest from philanthropist Ruth Lilly. This gift created an endowment to sustain Poetry magazine in perpetuity and to fund a wide range of programs that elevate poetry’s role in contemporary culture. A 501(c)(3) private nonoperating foundation, the Poetry Foundation advances its mission through publications, events, educational initiatives, digital resources, and the ongoing stewardship of Poetry, one of the oldest and most influential literary magazines in the world.
Radio Drama Network
The Radio Drama Network is a family foundation dedicated to supporting the spoken word in all its forms. Founded by legendary audio drama director and producer Himan Brown and now led by President Melina Brown, the organization champions storytelling as a vital force for cultural enrichment and social impact. A pioneering figure in radio’s golden age, Himan Brown—an actor, producer, director, and gifted orator—began his career broadcasting Yiddish tales from makeshift studios and went on to create and produce hundreds of iconic series including Inner Sanctum, Grand Central Station, Dick Tracy, The Shadow, and The Thin Man. He later revived the medium with CBS Radio Mystery Theater and Adventure Theater, continuing to innovate into his 90s. A passionate advocate for writers and performers, including those blacklisted during the Red Scare, Brown remained committed to preserving the oral tradition and elevating socially resonant stories. Today, the Radio Drama Network carries forward his legacy, supporting projects that reflect the evolving culture of sound while honoring the enduring power of the spoken word.
The AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF)
The AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), headquartered in Los Angeles, is the world's largest nonprofit provider of HIV/AIDS medical care. Founded in 1987, AHF has expanded from a single hospice into a global organization delivering cutting-edge medicine and advocacy to over 2 million people across 47 countries. Through an integrated network of healthcare centers, pharmacies, wellness clinics, and community programs—including the Out of the Closet thrift stores and the Healthy Housing Foundation—AHF addresses both medical and social determinants of health. Committed to eliminating barriers to care, AHF offers services regardless of patients' ability to pay and leads public health initiatives such as free HIV/STD testing, condom distribution, and global awareness campaigns like International Condom Day and World AIDS Day. With a mission to end the AIDS epidemic, AHF continues to innovate in treatment, prevention, and advocacy worldwide.
Voices of Our Nations Arts Foundation (VONA)
Voices of Our Nations Arts Foundation (VONA) is a nonprofit literary organization founded in 1999 by writers and activists Elmaz Abinader, Junot Díaz, Victor Díaz, and Diem Jones. It serves as the premier multi-genre workshop dedicated to nurturing writers of color. VONA provides a supportive space where BIPOC writers can hone their craft, engage in community, and explore personal and political narratives. Through workshops, mentorship, and community engagement, VONA fosters literary excellence and social justice, aiming to amplify voices that have been historically marginalized in the literary world. Since its inception, over 2,500 writers from around the globe have participated in VONA's programs, many of whom have gone on to achieve significant literary success. Headquartered in Miami, Florida, VONA continues to build a global community of writers committed to cultural change through the power of the written word.
Scientists and Poets
Scientists and Poets is an independent micro press based in Brooklyn, New York, dedicated to supporting emerging creative writers whose work has yet to receive the recognition it deserves. With a mission to explore the edges of the imagination—where the realms of science and art converge—Scientists and Poets publishes poetry and essays that push boundaries and open new worlds. In addition to its publishing efforts, the press will soon host readings and events that further its commitment to cultivating vibrant, cross-disciplinary literary communities. Readers and writers are invited to subscribe to the newsletter for updates and original content aligned with the press’s imaginative and exploratory vision.
CavanKerry Press
CavanKerry Press is a nonprofit literary press dedicated to serving both art and community by publishing emotionally resonant poetry and fine literature that speaks to the psychological landscapes of everyday life. Founded in 2000 by Joan Cusack Handler and Florenz Eisman, the press was established with a mission to demystify poetry and expand its reach—especially to underserved communities—by bringing literature directly to where people live, work, and receive services. Based in New Jersey, CavanKerry supports talented writers through a rigorous editorial process, high-quality book production, national promotion, and community engagement opportunities. The press also offers author training in self-promotion to amplify the visibility of its writers. As of March 2024, CavanKerry has published 132 books by 96 authors whose voices are geographically, culturally, economically, and stylistically diverse.
Recess
Recess is a sparkling water infused with hemp and adaptogens, designed to help you feel calm, cool, and collected—no matter where your day takes you. Rooted in the belief that there are many paths to presence, Recess offers a refreshing ritual for when you're feeling spread too thin, out of it, or simply not quite in the moment. Each can is crafted to restore balance with ingredients that ease stress and support clarity—because peace of mind should be as accessible as your favorite drink. Whether you’re unwinding, recharging, or resetting, Recess is your invitation to take a moment and return to yourself.
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BECOME A SPONSOR!
One of the best ways for brands and organizations to support The New York City Poetry Festival is sponsorship. There are sponsorship levels designed for organization of all sizes, and the perks at every level are undeniable! With on-site and online marketing opportunities, sponsoring the festival is a great way to put your brand in front of New York’s most dedicated art and literature lovers.