Producer Hub, a resource for independent producers and artists, has secured a $1 million grant from the Mellon Foundation to support its expansion over the next two and a half years. The funding will help strengthen the organization’s capacity in areas such as fiscal sponsorship, education, professional development and resource sharing.
In addition to the grant, Producer Hub announced new staff updates. Michael Francis will continue to lead the organization full-time as producing director. Two employees have had title changes: Katie Dragone is now the operations and fiscal sponsorship manager, while Cindy Tsai is communications and engagement manager. Kate Mantyh, a new hire, will serve as operations coordinator. Sarah McLellan and Kayte Zhang of A.D. Hamingson & Associates have joined as development consultants.
The Producer Hub board of directors will stay intact and includes co-founders Mara Isaacs and Ronee Penoi as well as Adam Hyndman and Liz Engelman.
Producer Hub is also planning to launch two new fellowship programs. The Bridges Fellowship, led by Kenyan producer Karishma Bhagani in collaboration with Georgetown University, will focus on training African producers through a unique Afro-diasporic pedagogy. The Producer Hub Fellowship Program at Tofte Lake Center will offer 10 members of the community a week-long residency at the non-profit artists’ retreat in Ely, MN.
The organization was founded in 2017 as a program of Octopus Theatricals, a team of independent producers. Producer Hub incorporated in August 2021 and was confirmed as a nonprofit in January 2024.
“We are deeply grateful to the Mellon Foundation for this unbelievable support,” said Francis. “This grant will allow us to continue amplifying and aiding the work of our peers, while also creating room to grow and better serve our artists.”
Since its inception, Producer Hub has supported over 126 projects, facilitating more than $20 million in funds for artists and initiatives. The organization provides a platform for shared resources and community.
