Private Fundraising Events

SommFoundation is a 501(c)(3) California-based nonprofit corporation whose mission is to assist in the education and professional development of people working in the wine and spirits industry. We aim to make meaningful impact on individuals seeking to further their development in our industry and, since our inception, we have awarded over $1.6 million in scholarship funds and provided enrichment opportunities for over 1,100 people. By supporting SommFoundation through your private event, the beverage industry as a whole is bettered through increased education, access, and mentorship.

Support SommFoundation by Hosting a Tasting Party

wine fundraising events

Venue:

  • Venue space is donated through the SommFoundation network of donors, supporters, Board Members, and past scholarship or trip recipients.

  • Space and group size can range from 10 to 75 guests, with the ideal size between 30 and 50 guests. Suggested donations and other associated costs will be calculated based on group size.

  • The venue or the sponsoring winery/distributor/organization donates heavy appetizers and use of glassware or rented glassware. SommFoundation pays the venue for labor/gratuity. The format is casual, not seated, and should feel like a great party with an educational component. 

Wines:

  • One or more wineries, distributors, or importers donate curated, high-end, or rare wines to be tasted that will draw a crowd. 

  • The sponsor(s) is/are welcome and encouraged to send a representative, however SommFoundation Chairman of the Board and Master Sommelier Thomas Price will also co-host each event with local Master Sommeliers and other top wine professionals.

  • In addition to donating wines, the sponsor(s) will also provide a donation to cover SommFoundation travel and expenses for one Board Member and one employee organizer. If desired, the sponsor(s) can opt to fly in additional Master Sommeliers or top wine professionals through the SommFoundation network.

  • SommFoundation works with the sponsor(s) to create a cohesive theme for the evening based around seasonality, local markets, and top winery and distributor portfolios. 

Auction:

  • SommFoundation solicits donations for a silent auction to occur during the tasting. Auction lots will include wines, tasting experiences, special access to various types of cellar consultations with Master Sommeliers, city guides on where to eat and drink around the world curated by top wine professionals, access to difficult-to-get restaurant reservations, and more.  

Invitations:

  • A curated list of inviteations are sent out via the venue mailing list and private client list, the sponsoring winery and/or distributor client list, and SommFoundation’s network of supporters, Board Members, and past scholarship and trip recipients.


This style of event provides a unique and customizable opportunity for guests to experience a highly-curated wine tasting with the chance to learn directly from Master Sommeliers and other top wine professionals with the added benefit of learning about why wine education matters while supporting a 501(c)(3) nonprofit through their donation. For the wine donors, SommFoundation provides both the logistical support as well as an expanded guest list who will relish the chance to engage with icons of the industry in an intimate setting while learning more about the featured wines and how to purchase them.


All collaborations and inquiries are welcome. We look forward to planning a great event with you!


Please contact Emily Gold for further details at emily.gold@sommfoundation.com.