AVIXA Foundation Announces 2026 Brad Sousa Impact Fund Grant Recipients

	"We are proud to recognize The Loop Lab and Highmark Mann for demonstrating how grassroots workforce programs mixed with pro AV tech skills training can be models for measurable, scalable impact on our industry," says Joyce.

The AVIXA Foundation has announced the 2026 grant recipients of the Brad Sousa Impact Fund. Honored at InfoComm 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada, the recipients are The Loop Lab and Highmark Mann Center for the Performing Arts. This Brad Sousa Impact Fund offers financial support to changemaker organizations utilizing audiovisual technology and digital transformation in communities around the world.

"We are proud to recognize The Loop Lab and Highmark Mann for demonstrating how grassroots workforce programs mixed with pro AV tech skills training can be models for measurable, scalable impact on our industry," says Sarah Joyce, AVIXA chief global officer and foundation executive director. "The Brad Sousa Impact Fund exists to support exactly this kind of transformative work. These organizations lift up communities of untapped AV talent to fill a real need in our industry."

The Loop Lab is a nonprofit, Greater Boston-based workforce intermediary advancing equitable access to careers in the pro AV and digital media industries. The Loop Lab will use this grant to strengthen the expansion of industry-aligned media arts and pro AV workforce training pathways serving historically underrepresented young adults across Greater Boston and Western Massachusetts. Apprentices receive intensive project-based instruction in areas including live event production, audio engineering, video production, lighting, digital collaboration workflows, content creation, and AV systems exposure. This program combines training with paid fellowships and direct employer engagement.

The Highmark Mann Center for the Performing Arts, a nonprofit performing arts center located in the Centennial District of Philadelphia's West Fairmount Park, will use this grant to support its Music Industry Pre-Apprenticeship Program (MIAP). This program combines technical training, workforce readiness, mentorship, and paid on-the-job learning experiences across professional production environments. MIAP apprentices rotate through industry partner sites, including production companies, recording studios, theaters, and scenic shops, gaining hands-on experience while building professional networks and transferable workforce skills.

The Brad Sousa Impact Fund supports the AVIXA Foundation's global mission through impact investing and partnerships, with a key focus on developing audiovisual and digital transformation professionals and their understanding of each other's overlapping needs. The AVIXA Foundation is fundraising for the next round of grants and welcomes corporate and individual donations to help amplify its impact for next year and years to come.

Learn more and donate at avixa.org/avixa-foundation.