Empowering artists and creatives to thrive, not just survive.
The Givends is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit supporting musicians, creatives, and emerging events industry professionals. Passion alone doesn’t pay the bills. Too many talented people face unpredictable income, limited access to funding, and little guidance on the business side of a creative career, often without the support they need to stay well along the way. We exist to close that gap.
The Givends provides direct support, financial literacy, mental health resources, and real-world career opportunities to bridge the gap between artistic passion and long-term sustainability.
How we do it
Industry & Business Training
Financial literacy, contracts, and entrepreneurial skills, so creatives can protect their work and build careers that last.Mental Health & Crisis Support
Access to therapy, peer networks, and emergency relief for creatives when they need it most.Community & Collaboration
Mentorship, networking, and artist empowerment that replace isolation with a community behind you.Innovative Artist Development
Growth through NextFest LA, Label Squadz, and partnerships across the Walk Talkin network.
Our Values
Empowerment
Giving creatives education and tools to succeed.
Equity & Accessibility
Breaking down barriers for all creatives.
Community & Collaboration
Strengthening the creative ecosystem.
Innovation & Adaptability
Staying ahead of industry changes.
“One of us is not as strong as all of us.” - DJ Dusk
Join Us
Donate, partner, volunteer, or intern with us and help build a creative community where artists don’t just survive, they thrive.
The Givends is the nonprofit arm of Walk Talkin International, an independent events and production company built by and for the creative community.
Walk Talkin is a connected ecosystem where each piece strengthens the others:
The Givends is the heart of the ecosystem. We turn the opportunities, stages, and industry relationships across Walk Talkin into training, support, and access for the people who need them most.
NextFest LA is our independent music festival and production company. It brings emerging and established artists to real stages and produces large-scale events, including free community concert series with LA County Parks.
Label Squadz helps artists with music label services, from release strategy to building a sustainable career.
Because we sit inside a working production company, our programs aren’t theoretical. The creatives we serve learn alongside professionals, on real events, with real responsibility.
Part of the Walk Talkin Universe
