Resolution 2025-33613 RESOLUTION NO. 202533613
A RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AN� CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA, APPROVING AND AUTHORIZING THE SPECIAL
EVENT SPONSORSHIP FUNDING FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2026 FOR TEN (10)
SPECIAL EVENT ORGANIZERS IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF $399,912 TO
PROVIDE FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO MIAMI BEACH-BASED SPECIAL
EVENTS; AND FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER AND CITY CLERK
TO EXECUTE THE SPONSORSHIP AGREEMENTS RELATED TO THE
APPROVED FUNDS.
WHEREAS, the Miami Beach Special Event Sponsorship Program (the "Program") was
created in June 2021 to assist the Ciry in the review of event sponsorship and fee waiver requests;
and
WHEREAS, the Program process is formalized and allows the Administration to properly
analyze and budget special event sponsorship requests; and
WHEREAS, the City' s current sponsorship process is codified within Section 12-7 of lhe City
Code, which provides that "in considering approval of a Sponsorship for an event, the City
Commission may consider:
i. whether the Event Organizer has exercised good-faith, diligent efforts to apply for grant
funding thal may be available from the City's Visitor and Convention Authority VCA")
or Cultural Arts Council ("CAC");
ii. the Event Organizer's history and pertormance in delivering quality Events;
iii. any benefits being directly provided to the general public with respect to the Event,
such as free or discounted tickels to persons residing in the City of Miami Beach;
iv. seniors,veterans, or member of disadvantaged groups;whether the event is accessible
to the general public(either as a ticketed event or otherwise);
v, the demonslrable economic impacts associated with the Event;
vi. the demonstrable media commitments secured by the Event organizer for the Event;
or
vii. the efforts undertaken by the Event organizer to mitigate any quality of life impacts
associated with the Event, including noise, littering, traffic or parking impacts
associated with an Event; and
WHEREAS, sponsorship requests are generally to be reviewed well in advance of lhe date of
each event, either as part of the City Commission' s annual budget process, or through applications
to the VCA or CAC; and
WHEREAS, any sponsorships request that falls oulside of the standard review process is
subject to the Finance and Economic Resiliency Committee (FERC) advisory review, as well as
approval by 5/7 of the vote by the City Commission; and
WHEREAS, the Program addresses these elements and provides a platform for Event
Organizers to apply for City sponsorship in advance, and allows the Adminislration time to do a proper
due diligence and budget planning for the fiscal year; and
WHEREAS, since its inception, [he Administration has witnessed an increased interest in the
Program, both from producers of large-scale events and community event organizers; and
WHEREAS, at the July 26, 2023, City Commission meeting, the Mayor and City
Commissioners voted to approve the revisions to the Special Event Guidelines via Resolution No.
2023-32701, with the approved revisions including the bifurcation of the Special Event Sponsorship
Program, to allow the Program to be independent from the guidelines; and
WHEREAS, at the September 12, 2023 City Commission meeting, the Mayor and City
Commission adopted Resolution No. 2023- 32745 to amend and restate the City's Special Event
Sponsorship Program requirements by (1) creating two distinct event sponsorship categories,
induding minimum requirements and evalualion criteria, for"Major Special Events" and "Community
Engagement Events", and an evaluation process to review and score sponsorship requests based
upon weighted criteria, and (2) establishing maximum sponsorship funding amounts per event; and
WHEREAS, accordingly, in its fourth year, the Program applications opened on January 1,
2025, and closed February 28, 2025; and
WHEREAS, for the category of Major Special Event, thirteen (13) event organizers opened
the application, and nine (9) event organizers completed the application, while for the category of
Community Engagement Event, ten (10) event organizers opened the application, and siz (6) event
organizers completed the application and qualified for review; and
WHEREAS, the fifteen (15) applicants who met all requirements, including deadlines, were
reviewed, and scored by a panel consisting of City staff, and members of the Greater Miami
Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority; and
WHEREAS, application review included an extensive review process that reviewed non-proft
staWs, length of event, history of event, hotel room block (when applicable), whelher attendees are
regional, national and/or international, residenUcommunity beneft, marketing, and public relations
exposure, utilization of local venues, tax documentation, and more; and
WHEREAS, applicants were required to have a mandatory dollar for dollar ($1 to $1) match
and demonstrate this match through cash, other matching sponsorships, and/or in-kind contributions,
and according to the Special Events Sponsorship Program, an application must score at least 65%
on the Sponsorship Score Card for the Administralion to recommend that the sponsorship be
awarded; and
WHEREAS, only ten (10) met the threshold, and based on these guidelines, the
Administration made the following funding recommendations:
. Miami Fashion Week in an amount of$72,750;
. Miami Beach Holiday Festival in an amounl of$88,250;
• Queen & King of lhe Court Miami Beach in an amount of$77,750;
. Miami Takeover in an amount of$45,667;
. GroundUp Music Festival in an amount of$44,125;
• Simchas Bais Hashoeiva (SBH) in an amount of$18,040;
. Bike 4 Friendship in an amount of$13,440;
• Orchids and Arts Festival in an amount of$3,740;
• The Juneteenth Experience in an amount of$18,400;
• Miami Beach Salsa Festival in an amount of$17,750; and
WHEREAS, the Administration recommends Ihe approval of Ihe Miami Beach Special Event
Sponsorship recommendation for Fiscal Year 2026, in an amount not to exceed $399,912 for the ten
(10) aforementioned events.
2
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT DULY RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND CITY
COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA, that the Mayor and City Commission
hereby approve and authorize the Special Event Sponsorship funding for the Fiscal Year 2026 for ten
(10)Special Event Organizers in the total amount of$399,912 to provide f nancial assistance to Miami
Beach-based special events; and further authorize the City Manager and City Clerk to execute the
sponsorship agreements related to the approved funds.
PASSED and ADOPTED this o23 day of ��✓� / 2025.
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ATTEST: G��
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/! APR 2 9 2�25 �en Meiner, Mayor
Rafael E. Granado, City Clerk
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Resolutions -C7 Y
MIAMI BEACH
COMMISSION MEMORANDUM
TO: Honorable Mayor and Members o(the City Commission
FROM: Eric Carpenter, City Manager
DATE: April 23, 2025
TITLE: A RESOLUTION OF THE MAVOR AND CITV COMMISSION OF THE CITV Of
MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA, ACCEPTING THE RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE
TOURISM AND CULTURE DEPARTMENT, AND APPROVING THE SPECIAL
EVENT SPONSORSHIP FUNDING FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2026 FOR TEN (10)
SPECIAL EVENT ORGANIZERS IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF $399,912 TO
PROVIDE FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO MIAMI BEACH-BASED SPECIAL
EVENTS;AND FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER AND CIN CLERK
TO EXECUTE THE SPONSORSHIP AGREEMENTS RELATED TO THE
APPROVEDFUNDS.
RECOMMENDATION
The Administration recommends Ihe approval of the Miami Beach Special Event
Sponsorship recommendations for fiscal year 2025/2026 for ten (10) special event
organizers in the total amount of$399,912.
BACKGROUNDIHISTORY
The Miami Beach Special EvenlSponsorship Program (the 'Pmgram") was created on June
23, 2021, via Resolution No.2021 3 7 742 lo assist the City in the review of event
sponsorship and tee waiver iequests The Program process is formalized and allows the
Administration to propedy analyze and budge[special event sponsorship requests
The Program is availa6le for events held in Miami Beach. The purpose is to provide fnancial
assistance and in-kind support [o high-quality local testivals, special events, community
events, or programming that promote community engagement and elevates Miami Beach as
a world-class tourist destination.
The City of Miami Beach considers special evenls that:
• provide unique antl engaging experiences�hat increase residen� quality o(life;
• increase lourism by hotei rooms bloCk Contract(s) and targeted tounst attendance;
. promote Miami Beach as a national and intemational tourist destination;
• accessible to Ihe general public; antl
• strengthens Miami Beach by enhancing the City's Cultural Events.
The Ciry's cunent sponsorship process is within the Ciry Code�
Section 12-6 of the Ciry Code defnes a sponsorship as any contract, grant, or other
commitment by the Ciry to fund an event, eithei through:
936
. Arash or in-kind contribution, in any amount; or
. A reimbursement for City special event-related costs(police, fre, sanitation); or
• A waiver of special event permit fees (including user fees, admin fees, and square
footage fees), in excess of$25,000.
Sec[ion 12-7(c) ot the City Code provides that "in wnsidering approval of a Sponsorehip for
an event, the City Commission may consider:
. whether the event organizer has exercised good-faith, diligent eHorts to apply
for grant funding that may be available from the City's Visitor and Conven[ion
Authonty("VCA")or Culturel Arts Council ("CAC");
• [he Event organizer's history and peAormance in delivenng Quality Events;
• any benefits being directty provided to the general public with respect to the
Event, such as free or discounted tickets to persons residing in the City of
Miami Beach, seniors, veterans, or members of disadvantaged groups;
. whether the event is accessihle to the general pu6lic(either as a ticketed
event or otherwise); lhe demonstreble economic impacts associated with the
Even[;
• the demonsirable media commitments sewred bythe Even[organizerfor[he
Event; or the efforts undertaken 6y the Event organizer to mitigate any quality-
of-life impac[s associated with the Event, induding noise, littering, VaKc, or
parking impacts associated with an Event.
In Section 12-7 of the Ciry Code, sponsorship requests are generally to be reviewed well in
advance of the date of each event, either as part of the Ciry Commission's annual budget
process, or through appliwtions to the VCA or CAC. Any sponsorship request that falls
outside of Ihe standard review process is subjecl lo Finance and Economic Resiliency
Commiriee ("FERC")advisory review, as well as a heightened 517ths approval requirement by
the City Commission.
The Special Event Sponsorship Pmcess addresses these elemen[s and provides a platlorm
/or event organizers to apply for city sponsorship in advance and allows the Administration
time to do proper due diligence and budget planning for the fiscal year, while also allowing for
opportunities to curate a fiscal year of engaging, unique, enterlaining, educational, and fun
community events to beneft Miami Beach residents, businesses, visitors and culture.
ANALYSIS
Since its inception, the Administration has witnessed an increased interest in the Program,
both from producers ot large-scale events and community event organizers. To date, the
Tourism and Culture Department(TCD) has managed four cycles of Ihe Progrem. At the Juty 26,
2023, City Commission meeting the Mayor and City Commissioners vo�ed to approve the
revisions to the Special Event Guidelines v'�a ResoWtion No.2023-3D01.The approved revisions
included the bifurwtion of Ihe Special Event Sponsorship Program, to allow [he Progrem to be
independent from [he guidelines
At the September 12, 2023 City Commission meeting, the Mayor and Ciry Commission
voted via Resolution No. 202332745 to amend and restate the City's Special Event
Sponsorship Program requirements by (1)creating two distinct event sponsorship
categories, induding minimum requirements and evaluation criteria, for"Major Special
Events" and "Community Engagement events," and an evaluation process to review
937
and score sponsorship requests based upon weighted criteria, and (2) establishing
maximum sponsorship funding amounts per event.
The Program reviews non-proft status, length of even�, history of event, hotel room 61ock, number
of ariendees, residenVcommunity benefit, marketing, and public relations exposure, and more.
Applicants are required to have a mandamry dollar for dolla� ($1 to $1) match and demonstrate
Ihis match through cash, other matching sponsorships, and/or in-kind contri6utions.
Accordingly, in its fourth year, the progrem applications opened on January 1, 2025, and
closed February 28, 2025. The program is hosted at:
MBEventSponsorship.gosmart.org. For each cycle, applicants who meet the requirements
are scored by a review panel and subsequently approved by the Mayor and Ciry Commission.
For the category of Major Special Event, thirteen (13) event organizers opened the
applicalion, nine (9) event organizers compleled the application. Fa ihe ntegay of
Communiry E/gagement Event, ten (10) event aganizers opened the application, and six (6)
event aganizers oompleted ihe applicauon and qualified for review. Dunng the months of
February and March Ihe fifteen (15) applicants who met all reQuirements, including
deadlines, were reviewed, and scored hy a panel consisting of Ciry staff, and members
of the Grea[er Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Miami Beach Visilor and
Convention Authority. Incomple[e applicalions were disqualifed, and applicants were
invited to apply during the next session, which launches on January 1, 2026, and will
close on February 28, 2026.
Application review inclutled an extensive review process that reviewed non-profit status,
length of even[, history of event, hotel room block (when applicable), whether at[endees
are regional, national and/or interna[ional, residenUcommunity beneft, marketing, and
public relations exposure, utilization of local venues, tax documentation, and more.
Applicants were required to have a mandatory dollar for dollar ($1 to $1) match and
demonstrate this match through cash, other matching sponsorships, and/or in-kind
contributions.
According to the Special Events Sponsorship Program, an application must swre at
leasl 65% on the Sponsorship Score Card for the administralion to recommend �hat the
sponsorship be awarded. Only ten (10) met the Ihreshold. Based on these guidelines,
the administration is making the following funding recommendations:
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Event Descriptions provided in applications are listed below by category.
938
Communitv Enaaaement Cateaory
Hued Songs- Hued Songs presents Ihe 6th annual production of the mWlidisciplinary,
inclusive perfortnance of The Juneteenth Expenence, bnnging Black joy and artistry to citizens
across Miami-Dade County. The June 18 8 19, 2D26 peAormances ot the Juneleenth
Expenence at Miami Beach's iconic Colony Theatre culminate a month-long celebretion o!
communiry activations and peAormances across Miami-Dade County, staning on May 20 with a
multidisciplinary peAormance at Green Space Miami.
Bais Menachem-SBH (Simchas Bais Hashoeiva), a joyous Jewish holiday celebration, is an
annual event that has hecome a beloved Vadition in Miami Beach. Rooted in cultural
signifcance, Simchas Bais Hashoeiva began in ancient times and was celebrated in [he temple
in Jerusalem. This event is a time for communiry members to come together in unity and
cele6ration, embodying the spint o(shared joy and cWtural vibrency. Now in its 6th year, SBH o(
Miami Beach hansforms 40th Sl beRveen Royal Palm and Preirie in[o a lively cultural hub. The
focal point of the celebration is a dynamic main stage fealunng energetic live music acts that
captivate and engage attendees. The event offers a unique and immersive expenence with
seating arrangements, spaces for mingling, and dancing spread lhroughout Ihe blocked-off
section of 40th St.
Miami Beach Salsa Festival -Miami Beach Salsa Fest has been Ihe offcial Hispanic He�ilage
celebration of the City of Miami Beach. This year the event is planned for Ihe date of September
27th, 2025. The event will have live salsa orchestras, live children's dance showcases, singers,
authentic dances from different Latin counines, Latin food, and much more. Miami Beach Salsa
Fest will also feaWre free salsa dance classes for the public and salsa DJ's. Guaranteed sealing
will be offered for Seniors and child�en. Alsq the event hopes to bring a big-name artist to make
the event even more successful with the help of these funds from the City of Miami Beach.
Miami Beach Orchids and Arts Festival -The Orchids 8 Arts Festival, scheduled for May 3d,
2026, promises a weekend dedicated [o celebra[ing orchids. Hosted by the Miami Beach Orchid
Society the testival will feature orchid and art exhibits, musical pertormances, dance
showcases, educational sessions, and a vibrant vendors market Emphasizing our Flonda
native orchitl species, the feslival aims lo raise awareness about the impoAance of preserving
our delicate ecosystems. The festival takes place at the Miami Beach Bofanical Garden, 2000
Convention Center Drive, Miami Beach, FL 3314Q Festival hours are 10 am-4 pm daily.
8ike 4 Friendahip - Bike 4 Fnendship is an annual cycling event that promotes inclusivity,
communiry engagement, and economic pmsperity in Miami Beach. Benefiting Fnendship Circle
of Miami Beach and North Dade, lhe evenl raises cntical funds tor programs supporling chiltlren,
teens, and young adWts with disabilities. A minimum of 120 cyclists will parlicipate,joined by at
least 240 supporters, including family members,volunteers, and community members. The nde
follows a scenic route along the Miami Beach Boardwalk, showcasing the city's waterfront
beauty. Following the ritle, participants and supporters will gather for a posFntle Famity Fun Day,
fea[uring a 86� and camival. The event fosters awareness, strengthens community bonds, and
encourages adive lifestyles. By 6ringing together local and visiting cydists, Bike 4 Friendship
conMbutes to Miami Beach's vibrant, inclusive, and philanthropic spint while pmviding a lasting
benefil lo individuals with disabilities and their families.
Maior Soecial Event
Miami Music Festival- Miami Beach Holiday Festival o�Lighis will lurn an entire block on
Ocean Drive into interactive displays with vibrant projections acwmpanied by live musical
performances and a feslive holftlay village. The festival uses state-o(-Ihe-art projection mapping,
a technological innovation that ovedaps video onto all surfaces, tuming ordinary buildings into
interactive displays. Holiday-themed graphics will be projected across 5 wnsecutive buildings
highlighting the unique Art Deco architecture to create a delightful light and music expenence.
MMF will present three performances each day,featunng MMF's talented singers and orchesira
939
alongside heloved holiday characters, including Santa Claus, The Grinch, and Elsa. The visual
elemen[s projected onto lhe building will be holiday-themed and customized to the rhy[hm of
each song, allowing the peAormers to interact with the grephics behind them.
Sportwonc Intemational - �ueen & King of the Court is a speclacular beach volleyball concept
where each round fve teams compete in a timed elimination rece. One match wnsists of three
rounds ot 15 minutes In between rallies[here is a maximum of 8 seconds. After each round, the
team with the least number of points is eliminaled. I(there is more than one team with [he
lowes[ number of points, the team wi�h longest stay advances to the nesl round. If[he longest
stay is also equal, the team that reached that longest stay frsl continues lo fhe nexl round. The
Queen & King of the Court Beach Volleyball Even� stands as a pinnacle of athletic excellence,
bnnging together the worid's foremost beach volleyball players, including esteemed Wodd and
Olympic champions.
The Fashion Shows LCC dba "Miami Fashion Week" -The grand fnale of Miami Fashion
Week 2025—a spectacular even[[ha[embodies slyle, creativity, and cWWral celebre�ion. Our
vision features an extreordinary(ashion show, headlined by a celebreted designer, which will
serve as lhe highlight o(Ihis prestigious week-long celebration. After[he stunning runway
showcase, altendees will be treated [o an exhilarating concert by a renowned international
artist, enhancing the evening's atmosphere and ensuring an unforgettable experience(or
everyone involved. This dosing event not only aims to spotlight the pinnade of fashion but also
seeks to engage the community and nurture an appreciation for the arts within Miami Beach.
We believe this enchanting evening will leave a memorable mark on attendees and participants
alike, conhibuling signifcantly to the cultural richness and economic vitality of our cherishetl
city.
Miami Takeover LLC - In its 17th year, the Miami Takeover Weekend has become a signature
yeady travel event for lhe maWre travele� (30-52). Next year[he weekend event is scheduletl to
take place July 24th through Juty 27th, 2026 and its purpose is to bnng together like minded
mature travelers and provide them with a shess free travel getaway in Miami Beach, one o(the
world's ideal vacalion destinations, cenlered around en[ertainment, peer nehvorking, community
service and Ihe opportunity to expose travelers [o Washington, DC culture ihrough [he power of
live music pertormances and personal interection. The weekend festivities kick-oH with an
aftemoon nehvorking meet and greet for weekend travelers. Three additional social and
community service events are planned during [he remainder of the weekend highlighted by a
culNral exchange music and arts festival lhat feaNres live pertormances of Go-Go which is the
adopted offcial musiC of the ci[y of Washington, DC.
GroundUp Music Festival - The New Vork Times named Ihe GroundUP Music Festival Miami
Beach as one o(Ihe"Top 10 Defnitive Moments of�he Decade" in music. The 101h annual
GroundUP Music Festival Miami Beach will take place on March 13-15, 2026, at the Miami
Beach BandshelL Each year at the festival, fve-time Grammy-winners Snarky Puppy, acclaimed
by Rolling Stone Magazine as"one of Ihe mosl versatile hands on Ihe planet," offer daily
masterclasses wi[h other festival artists and play daily sets including a "Family Dinner" set each
night. The Family Dinner sessions(eaWring Snarky Puppy playing with a diverse arrey of music
icons as guests with the band, and there will also be full music sets by other renowned artists
TBA from all over Ihe world, as well as Snarky Puppy sets and daily workshops, masterclasses,
and other interactive opportunities for the audience and artisis to meaninqfully engage with each
other (with hundreds of free and heavily discounted tickets to local students and seniors).
FISCAL IMPACT STATEMENT
The amount awarded (or special event sponsorship program for FV 2025/2026 is $399,912. The
Spedal Event Sponsorship program rewrring budget of 5400,000 was adopted in the FY 2025
budget process#160-0380-000349-25�06-548-00-00-00-
940
Dces this Ordinanee reauire a Business Imoact Estimate7
(FOR ORDINANCES ONLV)
If appli�able, the Buaineaa Impact Estimate (BIE)was published on:
See BIE at: https://www.miamibeachfl.qov/city-hall/citv-clerk/meetinq-notices/
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
GONCLUSION
The Administration recommends the approval of the Miami Beach Special Event Sponsorship
recommendations for fiscal year 2025/2026 for ten (10) special event organizers in the lolal
amount o($399,912. The Special Event Sponsorship program recurring budge�o($400,000 was
adopted in the FY 2025 budget process.
The Program recommended funds will pmvide financial assistance and in-kind support to ten
(10) dynamic, impactful events. Together with annual con[rac[ual evenis (such as Sou[h Beach
Wine 8 Food, Miami Beach Pnde, and [he Hyundai Air 8 Sea Show), these special event
sponsorships will support quality and well-f nanced events. In addition, the events will assist in
promoting tourism and economic and cWlural development eHorts tha[ should positively impact
Miami Beach.
Applicable Area
Ci�ywide
Is this a "Residents Riaht to Know" item. Is this ilem related ta a G.O. 8ond
pursuanl to Ciri Code Section 2•177 Proiect4
No No
Was this Aoenda Item initiallv re4uested bv a lobbvist which, as deTined in Code Sec. 2d81.
includes a orincioal enoaoed in lobbvinc'T No
If so, specify the name o(lobbyist(s)and pnncipal(s):
Deoartment
Tourism and Culture
SOonsof(Sl
COSDOIISOf(5)
Condensed Title
AcceDt ReGApprove FV 2026 Special Event Sponsorship Funding, MB-Based Events. TC
941
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944
G[oundUP Music Festival Miami Beach-
LOlfor ecialEventSponsorsh�Funding
We respecttully reques[Special Event Sponsorship Funding in the amount of$50,000.
Who are"We"?
I am Paul Lehr, 3'°generation Miami Beach resident and native, musician since the age of
six,former CEO of the National Foundation tor Advancement in Ihe Arts/VoungArts,and co-
founder and CEO of Ihe 501c3 GroundUP Music Foundation which has produced the
annualGroundUPMusicFestiva�attheMiamiBeachBandshellsince2017. Myco-(ounder
and Artisuc Director is Michael League,who is Ihe bandteader of the 5 Time GrammyAwartl
Winning music collective Snarky Puppy, acclaimed byRoflingStane Magazine as"one of
tha mast versatile hands on the planet,"and has 6een feamred on che covers of lazz
Times antl The NewYorkTimes SundayArts Section antl has a chapter dedicated to him 6y
the Random Housc release"the New Face of Jazz"
GroundUP hrings Artists from all over the world, and a worldwide (and local)audience,to
Miami Beach/North Beach:
With diversityat its heart, GroundUP began presenting its annual GroundUP Music Festival
in Miami Beach in Pebruary,2017. Since 2017, approxima[ely 70Wo of[he 20,OOO+festival
attendees have travelled ro Miami Beach/North Beach for GroundUPfmm outside the state
of Florida, from all other 49 US Sta[es antl SSi countries. The Rhythm Fountlation founders
have repeatedty creditetl GrountlUP with beingthe most important cultural tourism event
in North Beach and at the Bandshell, and the impact of this culturaltourism has played a
major role in the re-vitalization of the Miami Beach Bandshell, a cul[ural focat point of the
neighborhood.
GroundUP has atso supported thousands of music students and pre-professionals from all
across South Florida includingfrom partner schools/progrems: Miami Beach High and
other Miami-Dade Counry public schools,Voung Musicians Uni[e, Live Modem School of
Music, Guitars Over Guns, Miami Music Project, New Worltl Schoal of the Arts, University of
Miami Frost School of Music, etc.
GroundUP's inclusion ofwortd artists from more than 40 countries to date, and the Aiverse
audience trom all over Ihe wortd mixed wi[h the residents of Miami Beach and other South
Floridians, fosters a dialogue encouraging mutual respect forthe diverse values and
musicaltraditions of all peaple and broadens our understanding of ourselves in the context
of our targer society.
945
Reputation for Eacel(ence,Maior Media Cove•age:
GroundUP Music Festival Miami Beach has developetl the reputation as one of the best
and most unique music testivals in the country, and its reputation for excellence has
gamered significant media attention attesting to its significantwoddwide, national, and
locat draw. Indeed,as part of its dewde-in-review on the most important and impacNul
events in the Arts, The NewYorkTimes named GrountlUP as one of the"Top 10 Definitive
Maments ottha Decade"in musia GroundUP was the onrySouth Roritla event ro receive
recognition on any of The New Vork Times"best-of decade-in-review lists." Additionally,
NPR'S naiionally syndiwted show Jazz Night in America with Christian McBride(WGBO/
Lincoln Center) aired a special segment dedicated to GroundUP,SiriusXM's stations
regularlyfeature GroundUP's annualfestival music sets, and each year, NPR's Glo6a1
Village show,which is syndicated on more than 480 NPft stations around the country, airs
sets[hroughout the year from prim Miami Beach GroundUP Music Pestivals,with
attrihution to hoth GroundUP and Miami Beach in every segment.
GroundUP also regularly receives signiticant local metlia attention,and has been
repeatedly named by the Miami NewTimes as"one of Ihe 10 6est music events;'and
prominentryfeatured each year in ihe MiamiHerald. In the most recent Muck Rack
Report trom 2024, GroundUP Miami Beach generated in excess of 500 Million media
impressions, all focused on GroundUP and its'spectacular Miami Beach location and
further establishing Miami Beach as a center of cultural excelience and diversiry.
1 ust Some of Ou r Artists(spanning multiply m usic genres,from lazz to Rock to Hip-Hop,to
Rap,to Blues,to Classical,to Fusion,ro World, and so much moreJ:
Rather[han artist selection heing driven by social media numbers or statistics on numher
o(tickets sold or name recognition/draw orfittingwithin a particular genre, artists are
curated hy Artistic Director Michael League based only on their musical diversiry and
universal excellence in their craft. As described by The Miemi Herald cover article,
GroundUP regularly featu res"a wildty eclectic range of stellar and hard to define
artists."In addition[o the annual hosting and attendance of S time GrammyAward
WinningArtist Snarky Puppy, previous artists include: guitar legends lohn Scofield and Bill
Frise0.and Eric Gales, Rock legends Living Colour(2x Grammy Winners and frequent tour
openers for the RollingStones�,leff Tweedy(Wilco), Nai Palm (Hiatus Kaiya[e�,Madison
Cunningham,lacob Collier, Louis Ca[o(Musical Director of Late Show with Stephen
ColbertJ, Kimbra, Michael McDonald,Chris Potter, Esperava Spalding,Tank 8 the Bangas,
Lila Downs, Christian Scott aTunde Adluah, Brian Blade, Cecile McLorin Salvant, Lalah
Hathawag ChrisThile(NPR's Live Rom Here),The Wood Brothers, Bela Fleck, Ro6ert
Glasper, Emity Estefan, Buika, Eliades Ochoa(Buena Vista Social Ctub),and many more.
946
Said the late two-time Rock&Roll Hall of Fame legend and GroundUP artist David Croshy,
"you'll meet and interect with artists and fans from all over the world. I dodi think you'll get
a 6etter shot at hearing real music than at this festival. It will knockyour socks off"
Unique Intemational Appeal,Setting&Guiding Principles:
The Festivalwas founded on the principle of curating an enriching ezperience for the
artists, residents, students, and audience. GroundUP shatters the barriers between artists
and audience/students. In a rypicalfestival, artists remain in their[railer until showtime
and(hen depart after their show, practicaLLy inaccessible to the students and attendees. At
GmundUP, artists remain forthe entire festival and hang-out with[he audience to
experience the other performing artists and to participate in intimate masterolasses and
other uniquely personal interactions with the audience.Moreover,many artists arrive
before the festival and offer mentorship experiences at partner venues for underserved
students/aspiring musicians and others with traditionally limited exposure m Ihe a rts.
GrountlUP provides huntlreds of free and heaviry discounted ticke[s to Miami Beach
seniors and stutlents aswell to students antl others throughout Miami-Dade Counry.
GroundUP's Major Economic 8 Cultural Annual Impact(since 2017):
According to the latest GMVCB Report from GroundUP Music Festival Miemi Beach 2024,
GmundUP's annual econamic and wUura(impac[on Miami Beach/North Beach incWdes:
• 54Million-locateconomicimpact
• d,200-hotelroomnights
• 1,070-SupportetlLocaUobs
• 500 Million -Media lmpressions induding major national coverage bringing attention to
the North Beach neigh6orhood and Miami Beach as a center of culNral and artistic
excellence
• Tourists fmm all 50 US States antl from 55 countries from around the world
• Renowned Progremming by artists available at steeply discounted prices for Ihe local
residents for which people Iravel from all over Ihe wortd, literally,m experience.
WithApprecia[ion:
As CEO and co-founder of GroundUP Music Foundation and GroundUP Music Festival
Miami Beach, and as a native and resident of Miami Beach, Miami Beach is in myview che
ideal location for these programs antl attractinga locai, national, and intemational
audience, and it is my hope and intention to keep GrountlUP Festival in Miami eeach as a
malor annual culturai event and drawforthe Cirythat is sa rich with and ripe for cWturel
excellence. I appreciate all you do for our Ciry and our arts and culwre,and I give you my
sincere thanks far all of your past and continued support.
947
�� The Juneleenlh Experience 2026
Letteroflntent
To the Clry ai Mlaml Beech Commissiort.
This lettens to express our in�ent�o aea�e a new,annual badNan within[he Liy of
Miami Beach-The Juneteen[h Ezpenence 2026. Flrst launched in 20P1,The
June[eenth Expenence is a mullitlisciplinary cele�ra[ion o/our counlry's seconA
intlepentlence day.June[eenM,and has been steatlily growirg In�o one of�he mos�
amicipatetl Juneteanth events in Miami-Datle Gounry anE it has been an honor ro have
i�pro�ucetl with t�e beaWflul a�y oi Miami Beach.
Juneleenll�also known as FreeOom Day-celeDra�es lhe emancipalion af those who
were enslavetl in l�e Unitetl S�a�es.Buibing on Nree solduu�Juneteenth Expenence
peAormances fmm 2021 to 402d. Hued Sorgs is crystall¢ing a sbang Juneteenth
traEition aaoss Miami-Oatle wi�h a muMidisci011nary June[ee��h peAormance/
celebra�ion.2025 wlll maM ihe fifth annual Juneleenfh Ezpenence,qoducetl in
partnership wiN Miami New Orama d t�a CRy of Miami Boach al ihe Colony T�ealre.
While certainly ihis partortnance M1onors an rcnportant day In our hislory,it champions
tenets o�eQmry across a mNtitutle a/issue areas.Access to ine aM1s is an epuiry issue.
Despite 1la of Sou�h Flwiaa's population itlentitying as Black,only a hanC/ul of
Bleck-led and aenteretl arls organvations neans they're msufiaently representetl
HueE Sangs centers local Black antl Brown arlis�s anE oRers Miami s�ig�ly-tllverse
Black commurxtles spaces�o teel culWrally eRrmeQ celebra[e IheK mmmunity entl gain
rtwre representation in the erto-while enwirtig all autliences know they are welcome,
even if they tlon[share I�at IiveE expenence.
Our goal is to grow thls petlormance and e�enence mto a ary-wiGe artistic celebration
a!this important antl grounCing holitlay Witn your sup0ort.we wn get there.
Thank you in advanw far your mnsitleration.
Kunya C. Rowky
ExeaIlive Ahisllc Direclor,HUM Songs
�, �
948
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� 1040 Orean�ri�e
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Fehruary 78,7075
Letter of Intent
Miami Beach Holiday Festival of Lights
On behalf of the Miami Beach Classical Music festival (MMF), I am thrilled ro submii our letter o(intent
for the Miami 9each Holiday Festival of Lights m be mnsidered for(unding through Ihe Ciry of Miami
Beach Spe<ial Events Sponsorship Pmgram. The Mlami Beach Holiday Festival of Lights is an amhitious
and innovative family-friendly event that aims to bansform an entire city hlock on Ocean Drive into a
magical holiday experience ot interactive projection displays, live musical oerformances, and a holiday
village.
From December 10-14, 2025, MMF will present three per/ormances each day,teaturing MMFs talented
vacal and instrumental pedormers alongside belaved holiday characters, including Santa Oaus, The
Grinch, and Elsa. The live musical performanres span a diverze range of genres and honor worldwide
holiday traditions,allowing attendees to revel in the joyous sounds of the season. MM F's projections will
create an audiovisual narratrve where cues fmm live singers trigger the holiday-themed video projections
on the buildings 6ehind[hem.
The Miami Beach Haliday Festival of Lighcs uses state-of-che-art projection mapping, a [echnolagical
innovation that overlaps video onco all suAaces, tuming ordinary objecis - such as huildings - into
interactive displays. Every surface bemmes a canvas, with graphic projec[ions Ihat play off the unipue
architectural feawres of 5 consecutive buildings to create a delightful light and music experience. Similar
to the Lyon Festival of Lights, a moveable image mch as Santa Claus and their reindeer can Fly fmm one
building[o the ne�t.
Media Links:
o Miami Beach Holiday Festival of Lights Highligh[Video:
https�.//mmeo.mm/903052430%shar.e_copy
o Santa's Entrance:
h�s://v ime o.com/916986876?sha re=m ov
o Instagram Recap Reel:
httpa://www.imtaKmm.com reel
o Dero Drive News Seement:
h�t s�.' vimeo.mm/916986620sharN-�npy
.. Miami Beach Holiday Pestival of Ligh[s webpage:
h[[psy/wwwmlamimusicfesUval-com[holidayfes[ivalof�IRhts
PreWous Experien<e
Sinre its 2013 inwptioq Ihe Miami Beach Clazsical Mus¢ Festival (MMF� has been proud ta estahlish
Miami as a premier destination tor eliie young dassical muslcians ro train and perform at a fraction ot Ihe
rost of professional mmpanies while maintaining professionablevel performances.
949
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In twelve years, MMF has established itselt as one o(the (astest growing and most important dassical
music festivals in the muntry, presenting 30+ puhlic events each year, induding fully staged operas,
symphonic concerts,<hamber music recitals, and masterdasses where our highly talen[ed students are
front and center.
In lune 2022,MMF presented[he world's first fuliy immenive opera production in a theater retting using
state-of-the-art projec[ion mapping technology, immersing the audience wichin the scenes of the opera.
This production of Das Pheingold marked the first time projection mapping was used for live opera, a
significant achievement for [he industry. MMF has delved into the technology's possihllities, creating
audiovisual mncerts in different venues which have garnered immense praise and have sparked a strong
desire for more projection activations in the rommuniry.
In May 2023, MMF sewred the G.O. Band for the purchase of cutting-edge projection mapping
equipmenC The acquisition at[op-of-the-line pmjection mapping equipment allowed MMF ro create awe-
inspiring and immerzive events at a fraction of the usual expense.Tradi[ionally,the roscs associated with
renbng such advanred equipment limit Ihe accessibiliiy of these eatraordinary ezperiences. However,
with the suppart of the GO bond, MMf was able to bring these eztravagant events ro the Ciry af Miami
Beach at a much more affordable price.
During MMFs 2023 and 2024 Seasons in July, MMF presented an inspiring trifecta of immersive
pertormances each yeac two full operas and one symphony. The rezponse from attendees was
overwhelming, leading to sold-out venues and a palpable 6uzz that estended far beyond[he mnfines of
the performance spaces. Social media platforms were ablaze with eKcitement az attendees shared Iheir
eKhilarating experiences, spreading the word like wildfire.
In February 2023, MMF presented its first wtdoor projection mapping mncert at The Betsy Hotel,where
MMF designed Valentine-themed graphics ta amentuate the 6uilding's architectural features, curning a
static structure into a dynamic canws far vrsual art and story[elling.The prolections were combined wich
live MMF singers helping the building<ome alive with images that shift and change in time with the music.
Aker Ihe immense success of this evenc, MMF presented[he first Miami Beach Holiday Festival ot Lighn
in Decem6er 2073.The performances took place throughout three weekends in three different locations:
Linmin Road's Eudid Oval,The Ga6riel South Bea<h Hotel,and The Betsy Notel(and 4 adlacent buildings).
Each event drew over 3,000 attendees and solidified MMF's reputation as a driving force in redefining the
houndaries of live performance, leaving audienres eagerly anticipating the next gmundhreaking
endeawr.In Decem6er 2024,the festival returned with even more excitement,adding a charming holiday
village comple[e with ventlors, a 20-foot Christmas tree, and a 12-foot Menorah, further enhancing the
festive atmosphere and drawing an even larger crowd to celebrate the season in Miami Bea<h.
Social and Cammuniq Impact
The Miami Beach Holiday Festival o( Lights serves as a dynan�ic catatyst in enhancing Miami Beach's
reputation as a premier tourist destination. By blending live, family-friendly musical pertormances with
captiaating visuals in an iconic outdoor setting,the fesBval creates an untorgettahle cultural experience.
By oNering a groundbreaking fusion of technology and artistry,the festival elevates Miami Beach's image
as a sophisticated artistic destination.The innovative prolection mapping technology showcases the ciry's
mmmitment to emhracing cutting-edge e¢perienres, resonating with modem cravelers seeking hoth
95�
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mltural enrichment and technological marvels. As one of the !ew cities worldwide to employ this
rechnology on a grand stale, Miami Beach will emerge as an innovamr in blending visual arts with
entertainment This distinct appeal will draw tourists seeking exdusive eKperiencez that only a handful o(
tlestinailons can provide.
The testival's open and family-friendly nature will draw in visitors lrom nearby ci[ies and scates,
enmuraging repeat attendanre each year.Not ro mention,the free,oucdoor nature of Me festival reduces
6arriers for access and allows attendees of all ages and backgrounds to experience the cutting-edge
technology.The fenival's unique audimisual appeal will cacch the attention of any onlookers on Ocean
Onve, drawing large crowds and gamering attention Ihrough media mverage, social media posts, and
word-of-mouth. By hosting an event of this caliber,the City of Miami Beach will elevate its appeal as a
cultural epicenter, drawing visitors from around the world who are seeking umpue and enriching travel
eaperiences.
The festival's cWtural components during the Holiday season are a major draw, offering an immersive
journey inm the spirit of[he seawn.With diverse themes aOPealing to all ages,from traditional camis ro
imnic holiday characters, attendees can expect a magical atmosphere that resonates with familiez and
Individuals alike. The prospect af expe�iencing such a unique and immersive holiday festival in a vibrant
ciry hecomes a powerful motivation for travelers,f�rther enhancing Miami Beach's allure.
I appreciate your time and mnsideration of our application. In seeking yaur support through Ihe Special
Events SOonwrship Program, MMF aims to make the Miami Beach Holiday Festival of Lights a halimark
event that not only enterta�ns hu[also mntri6u[es to the cNtural vibrancy of our city. I believe that this
testival will highlight Miami Beach as a city at the foretron[of technalogifzl innavation while fastering
mmmuniry spini and enhancing the holiday experience for residents and visirors alike.
Thank you!or mnsidering our organiza[ion Por lhis opportunity.
Sincerely,
��U(I(ILIA Yl�(1/1n.
Michael Rossi
Artis[ic Directorand Pounder
mmssi@miamimuz¢feebva'..com
305-903-9351
951
O��C} { IDS &
� I�TS FES� :� 1 .
Jeanne[te Dorfman
Chairtnan& Coordinator,Orchids & Arts Fcstival
Miami Beach Orchid$ocicty
jc.u�r:.....,,. i�i .:. _-i�d<„i,,
February 26, 2025
City of Niami Beach Special M:vent Spansarship Program
Miami Beach City Hall
1700 Comention Crnlcr Drivc
Miami Aeach, FL 33139
Subject Letter af Inten[for Special Event Sponsorship Funding—Orchids& Arts Festival
Dcar Sponsorship Commil[ee,
On behalf utthc Orchids&Arts Festival and the Miami Beach Orchid Society(NBOS),1 am
plcazcd to submit[his Lctter of Intent[o apply for Spccial F.vcnt Sponsorship funding undcr thc
Commu�ity Engagemen[ F.ven[catcgory.The Orchids& Arts Festival is a celebntion o(
nature,culture,and community, providing an immersive expcnence that showcascs orchids,
the arts,and environmental conservation while actively engaging Miami Rcach residents and
visiturs.
F,vent (rierview
• Eveol Vame: Orchids& Ans Festival
• Even[ Locatlon: �tiami Bcach Bownical Gardcn
• F.ven[Da[es: �fay 2-3,202fi
• Estimated Attendance: I,OUO— a[tendccs over the course ofthe festival (minimum 5(]U
per day)
. Community Engagemeot Educational workshops,culturzl programming,and
environmen[al ini[iatives
. Target Audience: Miami Beach resiJen6, (amilies,huriicWWre enlhusiasts,artisls, and
VISIIOfti
Organizational Background
7'hc Niami Beaeh Orchid Saciety(MBOS)wu founded in 2U23 lo promate orchid
nppreciation,conservation,and educa[ion. The festival serves as MBOS's pnmary fundraising
event, suppurting uur educatiunyl prugrymming and cuntribWing to the Niami Beach
Bo[anieal Garden's(.NBBf.)orchid curatinn and callection e:pansion. Addi�ionally, we arc
952
dcvdoping MBOK—Miami Reach Orchid Kids, an initiativc to in[roducc childmn to Ihc
bcauty and sciencc of orchids Ihrough interaclivc workshops and ac[ivities.
VIHOS wac fnunded by mcmbers of thc Niami Beach Garden Club and the Yiiami Beach
Garden Conservancy, nvn organizations dccply ruotcd in Miami Bcach's honiculmral and
culWral histun'. Thc(ixrdcn Club, establishcJ in 1926, pmmutes plvn[ cullivatian,student
menrorship,and city beau[ificatioq whilc thc Conscrvancy, foundcd in 1996, managcs[hc
Miami Beach Botanical Garden, a hub for environmental cducation, sus[ainabili[y, and
artistic expression.
Alignment wi[h Special F.vent Sponsorship Criteria
The Orehids& Ar[s Feslical meels and exeeeds lhe mlenx wtlincl fur the Communily
EngaRement Event category�.
I. Ecunomic Impac[(20 points)
� The @stival supports Miami Rcach's positinn as an intcrnatianal cullural
destination b)'atlracting orchid lavers, artisls,and environmenlal advocates
fmm across Suuth Plorida and beyond.
_ Local vendor, artists, and small businesses benctit from inemased cxposure and
participatiun.
2. N:vent A[tendnnce(2U poin[s)
.. Prajec[ed attendance: 1,000+ attendeeathroughou[[he even�, surpassing[he
reyuire1200-person dsih� minimum.
.. .4udience engagement is tracked via surveys, mcial media impressions, digital
marke[ing analytics,and intcrac[ivc programming fccdback.
3. Rcsiden[,Social, and Community Impact(20 points)
.. Exdusive residenf benefits: �liami Bea<h residents receive mul[i-day passes
for Ihe price o!a single-day ficket.
�. The feslical uf@rs Cree educational programmfo� for local schools und families,
fostering em�ironmental awareness and orchid conserva[ion.
_ Diversity and inelusion: Thc event attrac�s a broad demo�,raphie and
collabomlcs w�ith local ar[ists,schools,and nan-profits.
J. �tarketing and fnmmunication (20 points)
= 4 comprehensive marketing sfrateg)' includes sucial media campaigns.
inlluencer partnerships,presc releases,community nutreach, and lacal media
covcragc.
., The fes[i�al i� prumo[ed thruugh collaborations with Ihe �liami Beach
Bolanical Garden, Miami Bexch Chamber ofCommerce, and cultural
arganizations.
5. 8udge[ing and Accounling(20 poinls)
. Thc fes[ival adheres to slriel fiscal oversight, rnsunng a cicaq achievable
budget with proof of matching funds at a 1:1 ratio.
.. financial sustainability is rcinforecd through sponsorships, rendor fees,and
ticket sales.
953
Funding Reques[
We respmtfully request 55000 in Special Even[Sponsorship Cunding to support even[ logistics,
cducational programming,markcting,and wl[ural cngagcmcnt cfToris. Thcsc(unds will cnhancc
the festival's reach and impact while rnsunng accessibility for Miami Reach residents.
The Orchids& Arts Festival rcpresrnts a cul[ural and environmm[al pillar in our
community, fostcring cducation,conscrvation,and artistic cxpression. Wc apprcciatc thc
opportunity [o seek funding[hrough ihis es[eemed progrem and lonk forward[o lhe possibiliry cf
collaboreting with the City o(Miami Beach to (unher ennch uur city's vibrant cultural
landscapc.
Please let us know[he nex[s[eps in[he application process, and we welcome the opportunity m
discuss our proposai funhcr.
Thank you for yuur limc and considcration.
Smccrcly,
Jeannette Dor[man
Chairtnan& Coordinator,Orchids&Arts Fes[ival
Miami Bcach(hchid Socicty
��;.mneneJortin:in_��in.n?.eom
954
ALNODOVAR MUSICA LLC
540 V W 166"Ave
Pembroke Pines,FL. 33028
mel inasalsa(a�gmaf I.com
305-321-1087
2/19/25
City of Niami Beach Taurism and Culhre Departmcnt
1755 Mendian Ave. Suite 500
Miami Beach, FL. 33139
To Whom It May Concem:
I hope this leller of inlent finds you well. I am wn[ing[o express my productiun company's
strong intcrest in producing and husting thc upcoming Miami Beach Salsa Festival on
Scp(cmbcr 27'^,2025 in partncrship with AYUDA of Miami Bcach and[hc Hispanic Affairs
Committee of Miami Beach at the Miami Beach Bandshell. As an avid advocele of Lalin cWmre
and vibran[tlispanic comm�nity nf Miami 13each, 1 am excired about the oppoetuniry to bring
this dynamic anJ cclebraNry event again to�liami Reach. We have resecved the dale already at
the Miami Beach Bandshell.
This lestival is imm�ded to showcase (or ten years in a row in Miami Reach the rich cultural
heritage of salsa music and dancc,attracting bo[h local residents and in[ema[ional visilors.
Miami Bcach,known for its divcrsc wlNral in0ucnccs and livcly cntcrtainmcnl sccnc,is thc
per(ect hackdrop for this event,and we aim ro celebra[e[he art form in a way that bnngs[oge[her
pcuplc of all agcs,backgrounds,and skill Icvcls.
Thruughuut che festival,we plan to oller an exciting lineup of salsa perfortnances, Gee salsa
Icssons for[hc mmmunity, and livc music by rcnowncd artists frum amund[hc wodd as wcll as
local artists. Additionally,we hope to (eaNre local vendors, food, and art,creating a vibran[and
inclusivc aVnosphcrc Corall attendecs to enjoy. Wc cnvision [his eventto not only celebrate la[in
music bul also [o highlighl Miami Rcach az a global hub for culNral exchange and artis[ic
expression.
We are honorcd to have wllaborale fur more than ten yean wi[h[he City Miami Beach and ihe
Miami Reach Randshell in making Ihis cvent a success and look forward m the nexl cen years.
Thank you f'or your consideatioa I look forward to your response and the possibiliry of working
Wgcthcr to bnng this un(urgettablc celcbralion uf Latin CulWrc to Miami Rcach.
W arm regards,
Melina Almodovar CEO Almodovar Musica LI.0
���, _,..,i .. ,.,�.I ;;,�.,. /305321-1087
9$5
MIAMI
FASH ION
WEEK�
Loerdes Fernandez�Velasco
Exe<unve Managing Direc[or
Miaml Pashlon Week/The Fashion Shows LLC
2125 6iscayne 6oulevard Third Roor
M�emi, FL 33137
lou raesQmiami(ashionwcckmm
786-334-4510
�A ai�i Bea�_h Gry C�mmiss�on
P55 Meridian Avenue, Sth Roor,Suite 500
Miami Beach, FL 33�39
Phone�. 305-673-7577
www.m amibeachfl.org
Fe6 27th,2025
To whom it may mncem,
I �m w I ng tcformall} . p r,s o�u� tmt-o seek sp zorship for 11 . il Fashion Week 7095.w i c �,
schedulec[o take pi��e 6om October 27st:0 2Ech.T�is premier event prnmisea ro he a sgnlfi�an.-
plattorm fo� showcasirg Ihe aibran[fasnlon ind�stn,enhancino Miami Bea.h�s reputabon as a global
(ashlon hub,and mrhl6utin9 ro the local emnomy.
Miami Fashion Week �s remgn�zea as one o!the mosc inHuantiallash�on events in the United States
and arc,acts desig�ers,buyers.a�a meaia 4rom a�ound the wodd In 2074,the e�ert d�c.r o�er 20,OOC
attendees,indudiny industry leaders and fazhion enthusiasts.This year,we anndpate even grea�ei
pamclpaGon,wlth plans m feature deslgners Irom dlverse backgrounds,hlghL9hting the nch culwral
tapestry oi oor mmmumry.
Fashlon Is not only an arttorm buralso a key Industry that signilicantly contnbutes m the local
eionon�y_By sponsoiing Miami Fashion Wee+,lhe Mlarn� Bead�Gly Commission can play a vl�al iole
in p�omonng local busnesses,amacn�g rounsm,and s�ppomng the aeaove eronomy The event
95s
MIAMI
FASHION
WEEIC
,,.��. �� , �., , , � ,� � �� �... �� a,�.��e� , � ���,�.,��N��.
,�,«� �m, _ ��'a„�:`,�i� �,. .�., � i - � ,��c,
We belleve�hat a partnership with lhe Miann Beach Glty Commission would no1 o�lyelevate the cven�
but also allgn wi[h the city's commitment ro promovng arts,cukure,znc amnomlc develepment
Thank you for mnsidenng oar mquesL We look fo�ward m the oppatmiityto mllaborate with the
Mlami Beach Cry and aeatc a memorable evenc
Sincerely,
Lourdes Feraandez-Velasco
E.ecutive Managiny DlreRor
The Fash�on Shows LLC/Miami Fashion Week
957
v � " �_�il �
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Subject: Letter of Intent -Special Event Sponsorship Funding Request for Miami
Takeover Weekend 2026
Dear Honorable Members of the City of Miami Beach,
This letter serves as a formal expression of intent to request Special Event Sponsorship
funding from the City of Miami Beach for Ihe Miami Takeover Weekend 2026. Building
on ow hack record of 17 years of previous evenls in Miami Beach, we are committed to
delivenng an ezceptional cWtural expenence that will signifcanlly enhance tounsm and
economic activity within Miami Beach.
The Miami Takeover Weekend 2026 is designed to attract a diverse audience of 35-50
year-old travelers, offering a unique blend of cWtural immersion, entertainment, and
community engagemenL This event will expose visitors and Miami Beach residents
to DC culture and Go-Go musiq recentry designaled the o�cial music of Washington
D.C., while showcasing the vibrant oRerings of Miami Beach.
Funding from the City o(Miami Beach will be instrumental in amplifying the weekend's
activations and maximizing its impacL Specifcally, these funds will enable us to:
. Enhance Cultural Progremming: Expand the scope and quality of our cultural
programming, induding live music perfortnances, art installations, and interactive
exhibits, attracting a wider audience and ennching the visitor experience.
• Slrengthen Community Engagement: Facilitate greater engagement between
attendees and local businesses�hrough initialives like the "Miami Takeover
Passport,-which will oNer exdusive discounts antl promotions.
. Expand Marketing and Outreaeh: Increase our marketing and outreach efforts
to attract a larger number oi domestic and intemational havelers, thereby
boosting tourism and economic activity.
. Implement Sustainability Initiatives: Support the execution of our
comprehensive sustainability plan, ensuring the event minimizes its
environmenlal impact and aligns with the city's commitment to environmen[al
stewardship.
. Improve Event Infrastructure: Enhance the evenPs infrastructure, including
staging, sound, and lighting, to create a more immersive and engaging
experience for attendees.
The Miami Takeover Weekend 2026 is projected to generate substantial economic
benefits for Miami Beach, including increased hotel occupancy, revenue for local
businesses, and tax revenue for the city. Our proven ireck record, with previous events
958
I �� � � �_��
' � ^,1 i�..-i
generaling over$1.5 million in hotel room revenue and $170,000 in resort fees, room,
and occupancy taxes, demonstrates our ability to deliver a sgnificanl return on
inveslment.
We are confident Ihal the Miami Takeover Weekend 2026 wi��.l be a resounding success,
furlher solidifying Miami Beach's reputation as a premier de5ination for cultural events
and tounsm. We look torward to the opportuniry to discuss ar p�oposal in greater detail
and n��nar with [he City of Miami Beach to make thic event a rwality.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Antwoine MCCoy� General Partner and cafounder
Miami Takeover LLC
959
Subjec[: Letter of Intent for pueen & King of the Court Beach Volleyball Event 2026
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am wnting to express our sincere interest in applying for sponsorship from the City
of Miami Beach as paR of the Special Event sponsorship pmgram for our upcoming
�ueen & King of the Court Beach Volleyball Evenl, scheduled to take place in 2026.
Our organization is dedicated to promoting community engagement, physical adiviry,
and the spiut of friendly competition.The queen & King of the Court Beach Volleyball
Event aligns pertectly with the vibrant antl active lifestyle that charectenzes Ihe City
of Miami Beach. We aim to bring together athletes and spectators alike to celebrate
the sporl of beach volleyball while fostenng a sense of camaradene within the
community.
By partnering with the Ciry of Miami Beach Ihrough your Special Event sponsorship
program, we anticipate creatlng a memorable and successful event that will not only
showcase the city as a hub for sports and recreation but also contnbule�o the local
economy through increased tounsm and business engagement.
We are committed to working closety with the City and its designated o�cials to
ensure the event is organized seamlessly, adheres to all necessary regulations, and
aligns with the values and vision of Miami Beach. Our goal is to esfablish a
longlasting partnership that 6enefts hoth the communily and the City.
Thank you for wnsidenng our applicalion. We look forward to the possibiliry of
partnenng with ihe City of Miami Beach to make the Queen & King of the Court
Beach Volleyball Event a tremendous success.
Sincerely,
Wilw Nijland
CEO Sportworx
.���' " 'l�
SPORTWOR�
960