Sponsorship
About Selby Avenue JazzFest
Founded in 2002 by former Golden Thyme Cafe owners Mychael and Stephanie Wright, Selby Ave. JazzFest has grown into one of St. Paul’s most celebrated community events. Now proudly presented by Walker|West Music Academy, the Fest attracts nearly 10,000 attendees and continues to unite the community through a full day of great jazz performances, affordable food options, family activities, and artistic displays in the Village.
Thanks to Our Amazing Sponsors
Heartfelt thanks to our sponsors and grantors, whose invaluable contributions and backing make everything we do possible.
This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.
This work is funded in part by MHC with money from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund that was created with the vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008.
This activity is supported, in part, by the City of Saint Paul Cultural Sales Tax.
Invest in Legacy:
Founded in 2002 by visionary community leaders Mychael and Stephanie Wright, the Selby Ave JazzFest is more than a concert—it is a celebration of Black excellence and the enduring spirit of the Rondo community. Now proudly presented by Walker|West Music Academy, the Fest serves as a premier destination for nearly 10,000 guests to honor our culture through world-class jazz, art, and connection.
By sponsoring, you are directly supporting the preservation of a space where our heritage is celebrated, our businesses are amplified, and our community is centered.
The JazzFest Experience
Featuring local, regional, and international jazz artists, including a storied history of 11 Grammy winners.
A vibrant economic hub showcasing 100+ Black-owned and local businesses, makers, and artisans.
From soul food staples to fresh, healthy culinary options.
Interactive activities designed to inspire the next generation of creators and leaders.
Living our mission
For over two decades, Selby Ave JazzFest has delivered on its mission by:
Serving communities with 15% lower entertainment spending than the metro average.
Bringing together diverse residents from across the Twin Cities.
Transforming Selby Ave into a safe, Afro-centric destination, with 60% of guests now coming from outside the neighborhood.
Featuring world-class talent, including 11 Grammy winners.
Testimonials
Sponsorship categories
All sponsors, from Community to Platinum, receive an “Essential Exposure” package with a 10×10 booth space, logo placement in advertising, and live on-stage recognition. All partners are also featured in dedicated social media campaign with permanent placement in our 2026 Sponsor Highlights.
Partnership Opportunities
All sponsors, from Community to Platinum, receive our “Essential Exposure” package:
- 10×10 booth space in the Village.
- Logo placement in advertising materials.
- Live on-stage recognition.
- Dedicated social media features with permanent placement in our 2026 Sponsor Highlights.
Co-Presenting Sponsor
- Listing as “Co-Presenting Sponsor” in all 2026 print, digital, broadcast, local ads & news releases.
- Two 10×10 spaces in the Village; 4 tables and 2 chairs included. Sponsor to provide tents.
- Numerous mentions on event Facebook and Instagram pages.
- VIP all-access backstage passes for headliner meet & greet photo op (4).
- 15-second video (sponsor provided) for broadcast between sets.
- Exclusive opportunity to address the audience between main sets.
- Custom on-site booth branding acknowledging sponsorship level.
- Frequent emcee shout-outs throughout the festival.
Gold Sponsor
- Official listing as “Gold Sponsor” in all 2026 print, digital, broadcast, local ads & news releases.
- Choice of event area sponsorship; The Village Marketplace or Family Fun Zone.
- Two 10×10 spaces in the Village; 4 tables and 2 chairs included. Sponsor to provide tents.
- Mentions on event Facebook and Instagram pages.
- 15 sec video (sponsor provided) for broadcast between sets.
- Additional booth signage acknowledging Gold sponsorship level.
- On stage emcee shout-outs between sets.
Silver Sponsor
- Official listing as “Silver Sponsor” in all 2026 print, digital, broadcast, local ads & news releases.
- Two 10×10 spaces in the Village; 4 tables and 2 chairs included. Sponsor to provide tents.
- Mentions on event Facebook and Instagram pages.
- Full-screen static logo placement on on-stage video wall.
- Additional booth signage acknowledging Silver sponsorship level.
- Numerous on-stage emcee announcements between performing artist sets.
Bronze Sponsor
- Listing as “Bronze Sponsor” in all 2026 print, digital, broadcast, local ads and news releases.
- Two 10×10 booth spaces in the Village; 4 tables and 2 chairs included. Sponsor to provide tents.
- Mentions on Facebook and Instagram.
- Full-screen static logo placement on the behind the stage screen.
- Numerous on-stage emcee shout-outs between sets.
Community Sponsor
- Listing as “Community Sponsor” in all 2026 print, digital, broadcast, local ads and news releases.
- One 10×10 both space in the Village; 1 table and 2 chairs included. Sponsor to provide tents.
- Mentions on event Facebook and Instagram.
- Logo included in Community Sponsor “thank you” loop on on-stage video wall.
- On stage emcee shout-outs between sets.
- Numerous on-stage emcee announcements between performing artist sets.
- Logo on promotional materials and social media posts.
Armstrong Sponsor
- Listing as “Armstrong Sponsor” in all 2026 print, digital, broadcast, local ads and news releases.
- One 10×10 both space in the Village; 1 table and 2 chairs included. Sponsor to provide tents.
- Mentions on event Facebook and Instagram.
- Logo included in Armstrong Sponsor “thank you” loop on on-stage video wall.
- Logo on promotional materials and social media posts.
Join the Movement
Partner with us to ensure the music, the culture, and the legacy of Selby Avenue continue to thrive.
Contact the Festival Director:
Ernest Bisong
ernest@walkerwest.org
(612) 234-7371