Joining the National Commission for Black Arts & Entertainment (NCBAE) means stepping into an INTERNATIONAL creative ecosystem designed to convene, connect, and celebrate Black creatives and institutions across genres and across borders. We prioritize using art as a tool for community impact. NCBAE is for artists, cultural leaders, and industry professionals — from academics and instrumentalists to filmmakers, designers, photographers, stylists, producers, curators, and arts institutions. Whether emerging or established, this is a space where Black creativity is centered — not as an afterthought, but as the driver.
Why Join NCBAE
Cross-Genre Connection – We intentionally bridge disciplines, creating real opportunities for collaboration, commissions, and cultural innovation.
National & Global Visibility – From our conference to curated showcases and institutional partnerships, we amplify Black creatives on powerful platforms.
Access & Advancement – Members receive discounted rates for events and vending (including the Noir Market), early access to opportunities, and proximity to decision-makers.
Community With Depth – For those who are often the “only” in their spaces, NCBAE is a network where your brilliance is understood, supported, and strengthened.
Impact Beyond the Stage – Your membership fuels service, education, and community engagement initiatives that use art as a tool for economic mobility and cultural preservation. You will be a partner in all the work we do from powerful programs to engaging events!
Community
As a member of NCBAE, you'll be part of a community of like-minded individuals who share your passion for the arts and entertainment industry. This community provides a supportive network where you can find mentors, learn from others, collaborate on projects, and make valuable connections.
Resources
NCBAE offers its members a wide range of resources to help them thrive in their careers. From educational workshops, seminars, and access to industry experts, NCBAE is committed to helping its members succeed.
Empowering Spaces/Events
NCBAE is all about empowering its members. That's why we provide spaces and events that celebrate, showcase, and elevate Black creatives across all genres. Our national conference is just one example of the exciting opportunities you'll have as a member of NCBAE.
NCBAE is more than a membership. It’s infrastructure. It’s ownership. It’s legacy. Join us — and build what’s next, together.
Membership Options
Student Membership
- Status is reserved for anyone currently enrolled in an artistic institution.
- Early-Bird Discounted conference registration
- $100 discount on full-page or $50 discount on ½-page conference program book ad
- Ability to nominate individuals for NCBAE Awards
- Ability to promote published books on NCBAE Website
- Discounts and invitations for NCBAE workshops and institutes
Senior Membership
- Status is reserved for anyone 65+ years of age and is not full-time staff at an artistic institution.
- Early-Bird Discounted conference registration
- $100 discount on full-page or $50 discount on ½-page conference program book ad
- Ability to nominate individuals for NCBAE Awards
- Ability to promote published books on NCBAE Website
- Discounts and invitations for NCBAE workshops and institutes
Artist Patrons & Supporters Membership
- Status is reserved for individuals who are not artists but are patrons, advocates, and supporters.
- Early-Bird Discounted conference registration
- $100 discount on full-page or $50 discount on ½-page conference program book ad
- Ability to nominate individuals for NCBAE Awards
- Discounts and invitations for NCBAE workshops and institutes
Artist Membership
- Status is reserved for Artists.
- Early-Bird Discounted conference registration
- $100 discount on full-page or $50 discount on ½-page conference program book ad
- Ability to nominate individuals for NCBAE Awards
- Ability to promote published works on NCBAE Website
- Ability to promote published books on NCBAE Website
- Discounts and invitations for NCBAE workshops and institutes
Affiliate Organization Membership
- Status is reserved for non-arts/entertainment related organizations of any level, such as printing companies, professional associations, etc.
- The membership year for Affiliate members is July 1 – June 30 and is not annual based on the date of initiation.
- Logo placement with link to affiliate’s website on NCBAE website.
- UNLIMITED Position Announcement postings on NCBAE website
- $100 discount on full-page or $50 discount on ½-page conference program book ad
- Complimentary posting of events/call for papers on NCBAE website
- Discounts and invitations for NCBAE workshops and institutes
Institutional Membership
- Status is reserved for actual artistic institutions of any level.
- The membership year for Institutional members is Jan 1 – Dec 31 and is not annual based on the date of initiation.
- Logo placement with link to department’s website on NCBAE website.
- UNLIMITED Position Announcement postings on NCBAE website
- $100 discount on full-page or $50 discount on ½-page conference program book ad
- Complimentary posting of events/call for papers on NCBAE website
- Discounts and invitations for NCBAE workshops and institutes
- Periodic Program Review
Lifetime Membership
- Provides an opportunity for members who wish to make a substantial monetary contribution to NCBAE
- Tax deductible contribution
- Certificate or Plaque acknowledging Life Membership
- Special recognition on NCBAE website
- Early-Bird Discounted conference registration
- $100 discount on full-page or $50 discount on ½-page conference program book ad
- Ability to nominate individuals for NCBAE Awards
- Ability to promote published works on NCBAE Website
- Ability to promote published books on NCBAE Website
- Discounts and invitations for NCBAE workshops and institutes
Lifetime Membership- Payment Plan
- Provides an opportunity for members who wish to make a substantial monetary contribution to NCBAE
- Tax deductible contribution
- Certificate or Plaque acknowledging Life Membership
- Special recognition on NCBAE website
- Early-Bird Discounted conference registration
- $100 discount on full-page or $50 discount on ½-page conference program book ad
- Ability to nominate individuals for NCBAE Awards
- Ability to promote published works on NCBAE Website
- Ability to promote published books on NCBAE Website
- Discounts and invitations for NCBAE workshops and institutes
Support NCBAE
Help us continue to fuel the impactful work we do by making a tax deductible donation today!
