What’s up with the sponsors?
- Mastercard , which was a platinum sponsor for nearly a decade, will not renew its sponsorship this year.
- Also, Nissan , Citi , PepsiCo and PwC do not appear on the list of official sponsors of this year’s event.
The companies’ reports
- Mastercard states that it “continues to support” the march and related events for the LGBTQIA+ community worldwide.
- Citi confirms that it will participate through the Citi Pride program in marches around the world, including New York.
- Nissan says it reviewed its marketing budget as the reason for not renewing the partnership.
What do the organizers say?
- Eve Keller (co-chair of the Pride Alliance) argues that the withdrawal of donors is due to a decrease in pressure in favor of DEI programs from the Trump administration, as well as economic uncertainty due to tariffs.
- Kevin Kilbride (NYC Pride spokesperson) confirmed that “some higher-profile sponsors have withdrawn, reduced funding, or reallocated it,” leaving a $750,000 shortfall.
“We are facing budget setbacks… but this year it is a little more intense…” they say characteristically.
Despite the obstacles
The three main NYC Pride events—PrideFest on the Street, the Main March, and Youth Pride—will go ahead as planned, despite the challenges.
