Our Misson
Asian Creative Foundation was founded in 2020 to connect and inspire the Asian creative community.
What began as a space for storytelling and connection has evolved into a platform for action. Today, ACF brings creatives together with nonprofits to apply their skills toward solving real community challenges and building lasting social impact.
2019 · Where It Started
First Gathering,
First Community
ACF began with our first UX/UI event in February 2019, shared only on Meetup. About 20 people showed up — and that energy sparked a monthly event cadence. We explored topics from photography and illustration to marketing, community leadership, beauty, and lifestyle
2020 · Staying Connected
Community,
Even at a Distance
When COVID hit, we pivoted quickly to virtual events. While the world felt uncertain, we focused on keeping our community connected and fostering a sense of belonging through online conversations and shared creative space.
2022 · Be Brave
Our First Asian Creative Festival (Virtual)
We launched our first Asian Creative Festival as a two-day virtual event with the theme Be BRAVE—encouraging our community to start conversations that matter and take creativity seriously. The program featured 30+ AAPI speakers across topics like leadership, mental health, media, tech, and creative careers. We also hosted our first NFT charity auction, exploring new ways to uplift artists and give back through creativity.
2023 · Be Colorful
First In-Person Festival @ Industry City
Our inaugural in-person Asian Creative Festival launched with the theme Be Colorful, celebrating the diversity, stories, and creative courage of the AAPI community. Over two days, we gathered NYC’s largest AAPI creative organizations to curate talks, a pop-up market, film screenings, and an after party. The festival welcomed over 3,900 attendees, marking a major milestone for ACF and AAPI creative visibility.
2024 · Empowering Creators, Sustaining Dreams
Scaling Impact & Creative Prosperity
Building on Be Colorful, the 2024 festival centered on Empowering Creators, Sustaining Dreams, focusing on creativity as a pathway to social and economic sustainability. Through talks, workshops, and networking, we explored creator monetization, financial literacy, and collaborative ecosystems. Hosted at Pier 57 and Chelsea Market, the festival attracted over 7,500 attendees, expanding our reach and reinforcing our commitment to long-term creator empowerment.
2025 · From Community to Action
Pivot to Social Impact
After six years of growth, ACF evolved into a Creative Impact Action Platform. Designers, strategists, and creators now partner with aligned nonprofits to drive real-world outcomes — from storytelling and campaigns to funding, reach, and lasting change.
