The Jazz Loft Launches Major Endowment Matching Campaign in Partnership with Stony Brook University

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Historic Opportunity Could Triple Impact of Donor Support

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Stony Brook, NY — The Jazz Loft today announced the launch of a special fundraising initiative that opens the door to one of the most powerful philanthropic opportunities in its history. Through an extraordinary matching program offered by New York State and a long-standing collaboration with Stony Brook University, donors have the potential to significantly amplify their support for The Jazz Loft’s work and create transformative, long-term impact for jazz education, performance, preservation and cultural programming.

With lead gift donations from Jazz Loft supporters David & Cynthia Lippe and Ivana & Robert Lourie currently totaling 400K, The Jazz Loft aims to raise an additional $100,000 in new gifts, which may qualify for additional matching funds. The goal is to build a $1 million dollar endowment. 

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“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity,” said Jazz Loft founder and president Tom Manuel. “The matching program allows supporters to multiply the impact of their gift and help secure a vibrant, sustainable future for jazz programming, preservation, and education on Long Island. We are thrilled to partner with Stony Brook University in this visionary effort.”
The newly established Stony Brook University & Jazz Loft Partnership Endowment Fund will support an array of collaborative initiatives, including joint projects, academic and cultural programming, and research using The Jazz Loft’s extensive jazz archives. 

New York State Endowment Match

If we are successful in raising $100,000 for this initiative, that total amount will be donated to Stony Brook Foundation for the Stony Brook University & Jazz Loft Partnership Endowment Fund, which may qualify for a special 50% match from New York State. 

Eligibility is based on a first-come, first-served basis until March 31, 2026, up to $200M total, and is subject to approval by the SUNY Chancellor. 

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In the event that the $100,000 minimum is not met, all donations will support the Jazz Loft’s general operations.

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The Jazz Loft urges interested donors to act soon, as matching funds are limited and both programs end next year. For more information or to discuss giving opportunities, please contact: Tom Manuel, The Jazz Loft at 631-751-1895.