A New Era for Independent Audio Begins Here.

2026 is a landmark year for AIR. Backed by a transformative $1.5 million investment from the Ford Foundation, we are expanding our capacity, strengthening the systems that support independent creators, and building a more equitable future for the audio makers who power public and community media. Now, it is time to celebrate together.

This is one of the few times our community shows up in the same place without an agenda, a conference badge, or a training schedule.

For many in our network, this isn’t a regular occurrence. It’s a chance to step out of Slack threads, inboxes, and remote work, and meet the people you’ve been meaning to connect with in real life.

Join us on Thursday, May 28, 2026, for the AIR Annual Spring Gala at the iconic DCTV firehouse in Tribeca/Chinatown. For more than 50 years, DCTV has been New York City’s home for independent storytellers. This spring, it becomes ours.

AIR members always attend for free. Check your member portal for your exclusive promo code. Not a member yet? Join AIR →

What to expect:

Spend the evening connecting with fellow producers, podcasters, audio journalists, documentary filmmakers, media funders, and NYC creatives over food and drinks. Step into our listening booths and immerse yourself in outstanding work from across the AIR community. Stay for a short program celebrating our growth, our people, and the road ahead.

Whether you are a longtime AIR member, an emerging creator just finding your footing, or a champion of independent media looking to connect with the people shaping its future, this is your night.

Thursday, May 28, 2026 | 6:00 – 10:00 PM EDT

DCTV | 87 Lafayette Street, New York, NY 10013