IFW STORY
In 1999, Darren Sussman founded TheaterMania to support the mission of theaters, producers, and arts organizations by expanding audiences with accessible coverage and dynamic content and by offering targeted marketing and ticketing solutions. By 2017, TheaterMania had become a leading media and technology company with a portfolio that included the OvationTix ticketing platform, WhatsOnStage in London, and producing the The Drama Desk and WhatsOnStage Awards. In July 2017, TheaterMania, Inc. was acquired by AudienceView.
In October 2017, Darren’s brother Erik was visiting Manhattan to attend the La Mama Gala where Darren was honored for his work in the theater and arts community. The next day on a morning stroll, Erik nonchalantly asked Darren if theater and arts organizations offered financial education or wellness programs to their employees. Darren hesitated only a moment before the proverbial light-bulb sparked.
After countless phone calls to colleagues, trusted arts leaders, and friends, followed by some traditional due diligence, it was clear to Darren that no comprehensive program existed. Yet the need for such services was great, extending beyond arts organizations to individual arts professionals such as actors, musicians, artists, dancers, writers, and stage, sound and lighting crews. It was clear the entire arts and entertainment industry could use help in this area. Erik’s financial experience and resources from 25 years in the financial services industry, together with Darren’s life in the arts and entertainment world, seemed like the perfect combination to help answer this need.
So Darren and Erik began brainstorming to figure out the best way to tackle the problem. Their answer: financial education, empowerment, and action! Thus IFWA was born, with the mission to provide financial education and access to qualified financial professionals to every artist, arts professional, and arts organization employee nationwide.
It didn’t take long to realize that they needed to offer this same approach to other industries so they could have the same opportunity to have relatable financial resources available to them as well. In March 2020, IFW launched its second vertical for the healthcare industry.
Today the Sussman brothers are working together with their executive team of educators, financial professionals, content contributors, and support staff to improve the financial lives of people everywhere.
IFW News
-
Retirement
Unlocking Retirement Tax Breaks with Qualified Longevity Annuity Contracts (QLAC)
Attention Americans: Starting this year, you now have the opportunity to use up to $200,000 from your retirement accounts to…
Read More » -
Retirement
What Exactly is a Fiduciary?
One of the most important relationships is that of the client and financial professional Learn two critical things to look out…
Read More » -
Blog
The Stages of Financial Life
As we transition through the various stages of life, our financial needs are also constantly evolving. The Institute of Financial…
Read More » -
All Education
Attention Kids! Your Financial Journey Starts Now
Hi! I am Katharine Weiner, and I live in New York City. I am in 9th grade, and I am…
Read More »
Resource Center
-
Are You Making the Right Investments to Beat Soaring Inflation?
Inflation rates are soaring, and it’s a concern that’s hard to ignore. The cost of living is on the rise, eroding the…
-
Top 3 High Interest Saving Accounts For A Better Retirement
Are you concerned about your retirement savings? Planning for retirement can be a daunting task, but a high-interest savings account in the…
-
40+ F.I.R.E. – Understanding the Financial Independence, Retire Early Movement
Are you tired of the rat race and dreaming of a life filled with freedom, flexibility, and financial security? Enter the Financial…
-
Selling a Home That is Financially Underwater
Being underwater on your mortgage does not refer to having a flooded home. Instead, it means that your current debt on the…
-
Additional Financial Home Buying Obligations
You have found your dream home in the perfect neighborhood for you and your family. You have even determined that you will…
-
Down Payment Strategies for First-Time Home Buyers
The idea of buying a first home is exciting. However, coming up with a sizable down payment can feel like an impossible…