The Nighttime Foundation has launched as a global non-profit, positioning itself as a new force for nightlife communities worldwide. Born from VibeLab’s advocacy work, the Foundation unites enthusiasts, creators, governments, and networks, aiming to ensure those who shape nightlife also shape its future. Its mission is clear: support the people who make nightlife thrive, and elevate the sector as a cultural and economic driver.
Empowering Local Action with Global Impact
The Foundation emerges at a pivotal time. As cities confront climate change and shifting urban patterns, nightlife becomes essential for vibrant economies. With temperatures pushing activities later into the evening, nightlife governance is no longer optional. It is urgent. Between 6pm and 6am, flexible gastronomy, cultural experiences, and community spaces sustain inner cities facing retail decline. Beyond economics, nightlife represents joy, contact, and self-expression, offering community bonds where political divides often fracture connection.
“We’re living in times of conservative policies, and nightlife remains one of the last social bastions for cultural expression; it needs constant support and strengthening. The Foundation helps communities innovate locally in ways that benefit the global nightlife collective,” says Mirik Milan, Amsterdam’s former Night Mayor.
A Board of Visionaries
The Foundation’s board brings together thought leaders across culture, nightlife, and policy. Dr. Anna-Marazuela Kim, serving as Chair, works as an activist, advisor, and academic, advocating nightlife as culture and urban catalyst. Georgia McDonnell-Adams, Treasurer, leverages two decades of experience in brand strategy for Boiler Room and Absolut Vodka, linking vision to human-centered outcomes. Kae Burke, co-founder of New York’s House of Yes, serves as Secretary, with a proven passion for inclusive nightlife communities.
“From fire circles to dancefloors, nightlife has always been where humanity gathers to connect, create, and belong,” shares Kae Burke.
Shaping the Agenda Through Research and Advocacy
A global survey of nightlife professionals, advocates, and academics revealed strong demand for best-practice toolkits (73%), policy advocacy (68%), and professional networking (68%). Respondents identified community engagement (63%) and progressive policies (61%) as the strongest drivers of nightlife success. These insights provide the roadmap the Foundation now follows.
“The Nighttime Foundation has never been more vital. Creating a platform to share and learn from global best practices while celebrating those doing extraordinary work will help shift perceptions, strengthen a city’s economy, and showcase the power of life after dark in shaping its cultural and community landscape,” shares Georgia McDonnell-Adams.
Innovation, Education, and Community
The Foundation’s work centers on three pillars. Innovation promotes sustainability, safety, and technology, including the upcoming NTEReport highlighting entrepreneurs shaping nightlife’s future. Education delivers mentorships and resources like the Nightlife Ethics Toolkit, designed to provide practical templates for ethical practice worldwide. Community fosters connections through Nighttime Labs and international gatherings, emphasizing inclusive, safe, and sustainable nightlife.
“Nightlife is a powerful lens on the kind of cities we want to build—bold, connected, and alive. With the Nighttime Foundation, we have a chance to put nightlife where it belongs: at the heart of urban life, recognised as culture in its own right and essential to thriving communities,” shares Dr. Anna-Marazuela Kim.
A Call to Defend the Night
The Nighttime Foundation invites global supporters to participate by completing its survey or contributing donations. Whether industry leader, policymaker, or nightlife enthusiast, every voice matters. Together, this collective aims to safeguard nightlife, ensuring its creators hold the power to define its future. The Nighttime Foundation is proud to have the support of Weeztix as they kickstart this exciting journey. Whether you’re an industry leader, creator, policymaker, or nightlife enthusiast, every voice matters.
Visit nighttime.org to learn more about their projects and discover other interesting stories on EDMNOMAD.com
