They let us know a few weeks ago but we can finally spread the word – SWEAT RECORDS WON A KNIGHT ARTS CHALLENGE GRANT!
It was announced this morning that we’ll be receiving (deep breath) ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY THOUSAND DOLLARS to make South Florida even more awesome!!!!
The funding comes from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, as part of its Knight Arts Challenge – a five-year, $40 million initiative to bring South Florida together through the arts.
Needless to say we are beyond excited, overwhelmed, and grateful. We wouldn’t be where we are today without the support the community has given us and we can’t thank all of you enough.
We also see this as a pivotal endorsement of our work forging a new role for “the record store” in today’s society and music industry. Just as bands can no longer sit back and wait to get signed, record stores can no longer solely rely on selling physical merchandise to stay viable. We know this and that’s why we’re going to celebrate our 5-year anniversary this April!
In addition to Sweat, 19 other South Florida artists, organizations and institutions were awarded today. Go to the Knight Arts Challenge site and watch the video below to learn more about this year’s winners:
In the coming months we’ll keep you posted on what Knight-related projects and store improvements we’re working on. Here’s the main gist:
Summary: This grant will help Sweat Records, a store and community resource that offers live performances, film screenings and an art gallery, strengthen and expand its cultural offerings. Sweat Records will hold additional workshops on a variety of cultural and educational topics. In addition, Sweat Records will develop an e-commerce site showcasing music and other goods made in South Florida.
Applicant: Sweat Records was established in 2005 in order to unite and strengthen Miami’s growing independent music scene. After surviving Hurricane Wilma destroying its first location, Sweat has settled into its permanent home: a full storefront, organic coffee bar and event space next door to Churchill’s Pub in Little Haiti. Sweat supports local artists and presents over 100 diverse events every year to further enrich Miami’s cultural offerings. Visit www.sweatrecordsmiami.com.
Thank you Knight Foundation and thank you all so, so, SO much.
