THE PORTAL

What It Is

THE PORTAL is a monthly hybrid event designed to bring Chicago’s creative community together. The event combines:

Networking & Collaboration: Artists, thought leaders, and social initiatives connect, share resources, and build community
Immersive Art & Media: Art walls, live music, interactive installations, gaming, and vendor showcases
Tech-Driven Engagement: In-person and virtual attendees participate through polls, video sharing, and interactive sessions
Live Jam Sessions: Spontaneous performances showcasing Chicago talent

THE PORTAL provides a platform for meaningful conversation, collaboration, and cultural documentation, empowering artists and amplifying underrepresented voices.

When It Happens

Last Tuesday of Every Month (except May 19th)
Time: 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Location: The Experimental Station, Woodlawn

Event Focus:

Connecting artists & social initiatives
Tech-driven immersive experiences
Curated art & thought leadership

Why It Matters

THE PORTAL is one of a kind in Chicago:

All-in-One Experience: Art, performance, vendors, media, resources, and live music in a single space
Collaborative Curation: Conversations shaped by artists and thought leaders to reflect community needs
Hybrid Access: Virtual streaming connects online and in-person attendees for interactive participation
Cultural Impact: Supports a symbiotic relationship between artists, communities, and funding
Mutual Support: Encourages resource sharing and collaboration among creatives

Our Impact

Impact (Jul–Sep 2024):

200+ artists attended
25+ artists & organizations featured
4 new partnerships with foundations or arts organizations
10.3% social media follower growth; 30% engagement increase

Audience Snapshot:

25+ Chicago zip codes represented
75% Black/African American artists
Age: 40% 25–45; 30% under 25
Gender: 47% female, 48% male, 5% non-binary
Nearly half seeking first grant opportunities

Funder Opportunities & Sponsor Benefits

Strengthen Chicago’s creative ecosystem by connecting artists, curators, and audiences
Provide equitable access and visibility for emerging talent
Gain recognition across promotional channels
Access Chicago’s expanding network of artists and cultural leaders
Align with a scalable, impact-driven arts platform fostering collaboration and cultural exchange
Receive logo placement on flyers and post-event stats for research
Gain exposure to our growing artist community
Access guest speaking opportunities to share expertise or services
Be highlighted through social media and newsletter features

What Sponsorship Funds Go Toward

Sponsorship supports the production, staffing, and programming that make THE PORTAL possible, including:

Hosts & Artist Fees: Compensation for performers, facilitators, and curators
Space Rental: Venue costs for in-person experiences
Live Entertainment: Music, performance, and jam sessions
Vendor & Hospitality Management: Staff to support participants and vendors
Interactive Activities: Art walls, gaming, and other immersive installations
Video Capture & Editing: Professional documentation of events
Producer/Curator Fees: Program design and artistic leadership
Tech/Sound/Visuals/Streaming: Equipment, technical support, and hybrid streaming
Engagement, Polls, Stats & Post-Event Research: Capturing audience insights and measuring impact

Current & Past Sponsors

We are proud to have partnered with organizations that champion Chicago’s creative community:

Partnering with these funders demonstrates the impact and credibility of THE PORTAL, and your support would align your brand with a growing network of arts leaders, innovators, and community advocates.

Sponsorship Level: $1,500 per monthly event

Click here to learn MORE about THE PORTAL

See videos of past PORTALS HERE!

Next Steps

Once you confirm your sponsorship:

A ChiBrations Sponsorship Liaison will reach out to guide you through activation, logo submission, and timeline details.
Together, we’ll ensure your brand maximizes visibility and engagement with the community.

For any further questions please email [email protected] and we will follow up with you shortly.