Los Angeles students, artists, designers, and creative innovators are invited to showcase their talents and demonstrate how art can inspire change through the inaugural Art Is Education Student & Community Pitch-A-Thon.
The United Negro College Fund (UNCF) Los Angeles, in partnership with the SOLA Foundation, is launching a new initiative designed to celebrate creativity, encourage innovation, and empower the next generation of artistic leaders.
The Art Is Education Student & Community Pitch-A-Thon, taking place Saturday, December 12, 2026, will bring together emerging creatives from across Los Angeles to present projects that explore the connection between artistic expression, education, and community impact.
The competition invites participants to think beyond traditional artistic boundaries and demonstrate how their creative talents can educate, inspire, and contribute to positive change.
Four Categories Celebrating Creativity and Innovation
The competition welcomes projects across four categories:
Digital Arts & Creative Technology
Projects exploring digital design, technology-driven artwork, and innovative creative applications.
Music, Media & Storytelling
Creative projects using music, film, photography, media, and storytelling to communicate meaningful messages and experiences.
Fashion, Design & Cultural Expression
Projects celebrating fashion, visual design, cultural identity, and artistic expression.
Community Art & Social Impact
Creative initiatives addressing community needs, encouraging social awareness, and using art as a tool for positive change.
Whether participants are passionate about visual arts, music, technology, fashion, or community storytelling, the Pitch-A-Thon offers an opportunity to share their ideas with a broader audience.
Finalists Will Present Their Projects to Industry Professionals
Following the submission period, selected finalists will be invited to participate in the live Pitch-A-Thon on December 12.
During the event, finalists will present their creative projects before a panel of industry professionals and community leaders.
The experience is designed to give emerging creatives an opportunity to develop their presentation skills, share their artistic vision, and connect with individuals who understand the importance of investing in creative talent.
The initiative also connects to the 2027 UNCF Los Angeles Masked Ball: Art Is Education, reinforcing UNCF’s commitment to educational opportunities and supporting the next generation of creative leaders.
Important Dates and Submission Information
Los Angeles-area students and community creatives interested in participating should note the following dates:
- Submissions Open: Friday, November 6, 2026
- Submission Deadline: Friday, November 20, 2026
- Finalists Announced: Tuesday, December 1, 2026
- Live Pitch-A-Thon: Saturday, December 12, 2026
Participants are encouraged to prepare projects that demonstrate originality, creativity, and the potential to make a meaningful impact.
For submission instructions, eligibility requirements, and additional information, contact:
Ray Cunningham
UNCF Los Angeles
Email: Ray.Cunningham@UNCF.org
Investing in the Future of Black Creativity
Los Angeles has long been a center for artistic innovation, with Black artists, musicians, designers, and storytellers playing an essential role in shaping the city’s cultural identity.
Programs such as Art Is Education create opportunities for emerging creatives to gain visibility, build connections, and demonstrate how artistic expression can influence communities.
By bringing together education, creativity, and community engagement, UNCF Los Angeles and the SOLA Foundation are helping create a platform where new ideas and emerging talent can be recognized.
BlackNLA Take
At BlackNLA, we believe that supporting the next generation of Black artists and creative entrepreneurs is essential to preserving and expanding Los Angeles’ cultural legacy.
The Art Is Education Pitch-A-Thon represents an opportunity for young creatives to turn their ideas into meaningful projects while gaining exposure to professionals and community leaders.
Whether you’re a student exploring your artistic talents or an emerging creative with a vision for change, this is an opportunity worth exploring.
Have a creative idea that could educate, inspire, or make a difference? The Art Is Education Pitch-A-Thon wants to hear from you.
For additional information, contact Ray Cunningham at Ray.Cunningham@UNCF.org
