Sponsorship

Sponsors are important partners that support AWM’s mission, exhibits, programs, and events.

Shortly after opening in 2017, the AWM was ranked #1 Best Attraction in Illinois in a USA Today Readers Best poll, and Fodor’s placed the AWM first in its listing of the 10 Best New Museums. Enthusiasm for the AWM remains high today, as the museum has a rating of 4.8/5 on TripAdvisor, including receiving a 2024 Traveler’s Choice Award based on these consistently great reviews.

Sponsorship Benefits

Individual and corporate sponsors receive recognition, special opportunities in the museum, and association with the nation’s only museum celebrating American writers. Sponsors may be recognized in the following ways:

• Your company’s name and logo on screens and signage throughout the museum
• Publicity directed to the AWM’s well-read, highly-educated, and socially-engaged audience — in emails to 26,000 subscribers and in social media posts
• Private meeting area for your company to use as you wish
• Free museum admission for all of your company’s employees and their guests
• Links between our website and your company’s website
• Hospitality benefits such as free event tickets, private event discounts
• Verbal recognition during the sponsored event

Every sponsorship opportunity is customized to the sponsor’s specific needs. We invite you to have a conversation with us about a mutually beneficial partnership. Ready to discuss ideas? Get in touch with Linda Dunlavy, Director of Development: dunlavy@americanwritersmuseum.org, (312) 374-8762

Click here to learn more about the museum’s audience.

American Prophets: Writers, Religion, and Culture – levels starting at $10,000

American Prophets is our newest special exhibit and content initiative. Opening November 2025 and on display through 2026, American Prophets explores how writers are driven by their beliefs and the beliefs of those around them, and how their work can in turn influence countless readers. We invite you to be part of this initiative with a sponsorship gift that will help us reach thousands with the goal of increasing empathy and understanding of the differences and similarities that are inherent in a country with the founding principle of freedom of religion for all. 

“The AWM boldly explores important and timely issues like racial justice, immigration, and now religion. These exhibits and programs help underscore the important role writers play in helping people find meaning, understanding, and empathy for others. This has always been important but is especially meaningful today. That’s why Cathie and I chose to be sponsors of American Prophets. Together, we can help guide people to a deeper understanding and respect for each other and promote an inclusive and informed public conversation about religion.” — AWM Trustee John Estey

American Writers Festival – levels starting at $5,000

The American Writers Festival is a free literary event co-presented by the American Writers Museum and Chicago Public Library, attracting thousands of visitors from the Chicagoland area and beyond. Individual and corporate sponsors of the 2026 American Writers Festival provide the financial support needed to host a premier literary event with the country’s most influential writers from around the country. Sponsors will be prominently recognized in association with the Festival, reaching our engaged, well-read audience.

Family Free Days – $5,000

On the third Sunday of every month, the American Writers Museum offers free admission for all visitors during our FAMILY FREE DAYS. Visitors of all ages will walk through our doors on these Sundays, and sponsorship is a great way to get your brand or business in front of them, as well as your employees, clients, customers (and all their friends and families)!

Get Lit Monthly Happy Hour Events – $2,500 

On the second Tuesday of each month, the American Writers Museum serves up drinks, music, and themed activities at Get Lit! These events feature plenty of opportunities to get your company’s name in the spotlight. With themes ranging from a Grownup Book Fair, to 80’s Night, to Pride Night, Get Lit caters to a younger downtown crowd, for ages 21+.