WITH LOSS OF SPONSORS INCLUDING ANHEUSER-BUSCH, PRIDE ST. LOUIS LAUNCHES GRASSROOTS FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN
ST. LOUIS, MO – For decades, Pride St. Louis has been fortunate to receive support from incredible corporate sponsors. However, we are devastated this year that our hometown brewer, Anheuser-Busch, has declined to sponsor PrideFest after more than 30 years of partnership. At a time when many sponsors have already reduced their contributions, this decision is especially painful. We are saddened to lose such a historic supporter of the LGBTQIA+ community in St. Louis.
In addition to the loss of Anheuser-Busch, funding has been coming in well below expectations, and we are currently over $150,000 short of last year’s total. The Board of Directors is actively working to modify the budget where applicable while ensuring a safe, engaging, and spectacular PrideFest for all, and we are calling on the community to help bridge this gap.
In response to this drop in support, Pride St. Louis is humbly launching the #45for45 fundraising campaign, a community-driven initiative to commemorate 45 years of advocacy, support, and celebration. This milestone is not just about PrideFest—it’s about the work Pride St. Louis has done for decades to uplift, empower, and serve the LGBTQIA+ community year-round.
“We are beyond excited to celebrate 45 years of Pride in St. Louis,” said Marty Zuniga, President of Pride St. Louis. “This anniversary is a testament to the strength, resilience, and love within our community. While we are deeply disappointed that Anheuser-Busch has chosen to step away from supporting PrideFest this year, we remain hopeful that the community will step up where they have stepped down. The #45for45 campaign is an opportunity for everyone, whether you’ve marched in the parade, attended our events, or simply believe in equality, to help ensure that these efforts continue for years to come. The community and our board are clear—cancelling PrideFest is not an option.”
The #45for45 campaign invites individuals to honor this milestone with a donation of any amount. Every contribution directly supports the mission of Pride St. Louis and the work it does throughout the year. Those who donate $45 or more will receive a commemorative 45th anniversary lapel pin as a token of appreciation. Donations can be made online at pridestl.org/45for45.
PrideFest 2025 will take place June 28-29 around Soldier’s Memorial Park in Downtown St. Louis, culminating in the Grand Parade - the largest parade in St. Louis - on Sunday, June 29. With the community’s help, Pride St. Louis aims to continue its legacy of fostering inclusivity, advocacy, and celebration for decades to come.
For more information on PrideFest 2025, including how to register as a vendor, join the parade, volunteer, or become a sponsor, visit pridestl.org.
About Pride St. Louis
Pride St. Louis, Inc. is a 501(c)3 organization run by volunteers. Our mission statement is: "To foster an understanding and tolerance of the LGBTQIA+ community by raising awareness through educational programs and events leading up to the annual PrideFest in St. Louis." Pride St. Louis is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and empowering community for LGBTQIA+ individuals and allies. Through advocacy, education, and celebration, Pride St. Louis strives to promote equality and create meaningful connections across the region.