USITT Receives Grant from The NAMM Foundation

Expanding Access to Music Learning and Powering New Pathways to Careers in the Music Industry

November 11, 2026 – The United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT) has been named a 2027 NAMM Foundation Global Grantmaking recipient, joining a cohort of 56 charitable organizations advancing music learning and career mobility in the music industry. The grants are part of The NAMM Foundation’s $1.2 million in charitable investments this year, supporting schools, nonprofits and individuals expanding opportunities through music. The 2027 grantees span 17 U.S. states, as well as Brazil, Haiti, Puerto Rico, Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom.

“This year’s grantees reflect the incredible energy, creativity and diversity of the global music community," said Julia Rubio, executive director of The NAMM Foundation. "We’re excited to support organizations that are breaking down barriers, reaching new audiences and creating meaningful pathways into music. These investments are about expanding what’s possible giving more people the opportunity to discover their voice, develop their talents and find their place in music.”

“I am incredibly grateful to the NAMM Foundation for this gift,” said Laura Lee Everett, executive director. “Having the ability to reach out specifically to introduce even more technicians to careers in the music industry only helps to solidify their value across the live entertainment spectrum. We look forward to continuing the exciting partnership for years to come.”

Through its Global Grantmaking program, The NAMM Foundation invests in organizations that make music learning more accessible and create pathways to careers in the music industry. By supporting programs that serve diverse communities and represent a wide range of music industry segments, the Foundation helps more people experience the lifelong benefits and opportunities of music making.

About USITT

USITT was founded in 1960 as an organization to promote dialogue, research, and learning among practitioners of theatre design and technology.

Today, it has grown to include members at all levels of their careers and has embraced the new technologies being used in entertainment. USITT is now the leader in life-long learning opportunities for the entertainment design and technology industry.

About The NAMM Foundation

The NAMM Foundation is a 501(c)3 public charity established in 2006, born from the National Association of Music Merchant’s (NAMM) decades-long commitment to giving back. Since its founding, the Foundation has invested over $20 million to expand access to music making and music education for people of all ages. Today, we invest in a connected music ecosystem spanning the music industry, education and nonprofit organizations. Our charitable investments and programs aim to expand access to music making and celebrate the people and stories that shape our musical world.

About NAMM

The National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) is the not-for-profit trade association representing the $18.1 billion global music products industry, with a mission to strengthen the music industry and promote the pleasures and benefits of making music.  

Comprised of more than 9,000 member companies and individual professionals worldwide, NAMM supports an industry that employs more than 400,000 people globally. Through its programs, events and advocacy efforts, NAMM advances a shared vision of a thriving, innovative and inclusive music products industry where every person has access to the joy of music-making.  

NAMM also operates The NAMM Foundation, investing in the future of music through the support of education, global grantmaking and featured programs that expand participation in music across all ages and stages of life.  

Headquartered in Carlsbad, Calif., NAMM serves as a leading voice for the global music products industry through public policy, advocacy, education and other member services.

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