About VGA

MISSION

VGA brings people together by strengthening nonprofit organizations and producing exceptional public events.

VISION

An inclusive, equitable, and vibrant community for all

Background

It all began in 1975, when Vic Gutman helped found the Omaha Summer Arts Festival. Inspired by the success of this event and the belief that events bring communities together, Vic incorporated Vic Gutman & Associates (VGA) in March 1978. Over the next 45 years, VGA became a regional leader in event management and marketing.

Vic’s community focus also spurred the growth of the company’s work with nonprofit organizations, and VGA became widely recognized for its experience, service, and expertise in management, fundraising, project management, marketing, and planning.

What's New in 2024

2024 begins a new era as VGA officially becomes two companies: VGA Events, and VGA Grants & Fundraising.

VGA Events continues under Vic’s ownership and leadership, planning and managing beloved community events including The Omaha Summer Arts Festival (50 years old in 2024!); The Omaha Farmers Markets in the Old Market and Aksarben Village; The City of Omaha’s Memorial Park Concert; Holiday Lights Festival; and more. Vic and his team will continue offering consulting and nonprofit fundraising event services, and are also working on developing new projects that serve VGA’s mission of an inclusive and vibrant community for all.

VGA Grants & Fundraising was created on Jan. 1, 2024 when Mary Hubl and Shane Pekny assumed ownership and management of VGA’s former grant writing and management contracts. Kevin Grubb also serves on the company’s leadership team. Under this new name, Mary, Shane, Kevin, and their team continue to provide grants management, fundraising strategy, and donor communications to help nonprofits raise the money they need to accomplish their missions.

What's Unchanged

Vic remains active as President of VGA Events, and also provides advice and mentorship to the VGA Grants & Fundraising team on an as-needed basis.

VGA Events and VGA Grants & Fundraising continue to work side by side, sharing a website, resources, and office space at 19^th and Farnam in downtown Omaha.

Our contact information remains the same.

Most importantly, the spectrum of services for both companies continue our longstanding, sterling reputation for commitment to community, outstanding execution, and upholding the highest ethical standards and principles in all its practices.

That will never change!

Click Here for a Message from Vic

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Statement

We acknowledge the pervasive and destructive presence of systemic racism and social injustice in our community. We advocate for eliminating these injustices and are proud to support our clients as they continue their vital work to make our community more equitable. At the same time, VGA recognizes that addressing systemic barriers to equity is a process. We continue to assess and update our business policies and practices to be part of the solution. VGA is committed to adopting strategies and actions for advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion.