Gap Inc.
september 29, 2026
Artist residencies, maker entrepreneurship support and public art initiatives expand support for the people and institutions driving the city's revitalization
Gap Inc. (NYSE: GAP) today announced new investments in San Francisco’s creative economy expanding support through three new initiatives: an artist residency and live music series at its headquarters, a broader partnership with Nest to help local makers grow their businesses, and a public art partnership with the Institute of Contemporary Art San Francisco.
These initiatives build on Gap Inc.’s nearly 60-year history in San Francisco and reflect the company’s belief that arts, culture and creativity are essential to a vibrant and economically competitive city. Together, they create opportunities for local artists and entrepreneurs, strengthen cultural institutions, and activate public spaces—contributing to San Francisco’s continued momentum and revitalization.
“San Francisco’s creative spirit has shaped Gap Inc. since we opened our first store here in 1969 and remains at the heart of our business today,” said Mame Annan-Brown, Chief Communications Officer, Gap Inc., and Chair and President, Gap Foundation. “Artists, makers and cultural institutions help drive economic vitality, attract talent, build community and bring cities to life. That’s why we’re proud to invest in the resources, spaces, people and partnerships helping to shape the city’s next chapter.”
Opening Gap Inc.’s Headquarters to Bay Area Artists
Gap Inc. will launch The House, an artist residency and live music series at its 2 Folsom headquarters creating a platform for musicians, visual artists and makers shaping the Bay Area’s cultural landscape. Through funding, visibility and dedicated space to create and showcase their work, The House will transform 2 Folsom into a dynamic cultural venue for creative self-expression, bringing artists and the community together in the heart of San Francisco.
“Creativity is what gives a city its energy. Artists, makers and cultural institutions are essential to its vitality,” said Zac Posen, Executive Vice President and Creative Director of Gap Inc, and Chief Creative Officer of Old Navy. “San Francisco is Gap Inc.’s hometown, and it’s a place that has always been defined by innovation, individuality and people with big ideas. Supporting the people and places shaping its next chapter means investing in that creative spirit, bringing new energy to our neighborhoods, creating opportunity, and helping this incredible city continue to evolve.”
Built around live music, visual art, and textiles and craft, The House will include quarterly performances by Bay Area musicians, rotating residencies and site-specific installations, beginning with Gap Inc.’s Embarcadero-facing windows. The program will also commission new work, foster collaborations, and host workshops with local textile artists and makers.
Helping Bay Area Makers Grow Their Businesses
Gap Inc. is expanding its partnership with Nest, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting artisans and makers, to bring the organization’s Makers Future Fund (MFF) program to 30 Bay Area craft-based business owners. Designed to help makers build stronger, more sustainable businesses, MFF combines customized capital access and skill-building for creative entrepreneurs to boost their financial confidence and connect them with the funding and mentorship they need to grow and achieve their business goals.
During the six-month program, participants will receive weekly classes, individualized coaching, peer support, and a $2,500 grant to help them overcome barriers to growth and build more resilient businesses. Participants will also take part in virtual and in-person events, including the third annual Gap Inc. x Nest Holiday Makers Market on December 4–5, 2026.
“We are honored to continue our partnership with Gap Inc. to invest in and provide opportunities to Bay Area makers,” said Rebecca van Bergen, Nest’s Founder and Executive Director. “Through the Makers Future Fund, we aim to provide participants with the knowledge and resources they need to grow their businesses, strengthen their financial resilience, and continue sharing their creativity within their community and beyond.”
Bringing Contemporary Art to San Francisco’s Waterfront
Gap Inc. is also partnering with the Institute of Contemporary Art San Francisco (ICA SF), who will work with the Port of San Francisco to transform the exterior of Pier 24 into a large-scale contemporary art installation by a renowned artist from the Bay Area.
Visible to thousands of residents and visitors, the temporary installation will bring new creative energy to one of the city’s most prominent waterfront landmarks. ICA SF will also advise Gap Inc. as it develops additional opportunities for Bay Area artists through its programs, including The House.
“ICA SF brings contemporary art into the public life of San Francisco while creating meaningful opportunities for artists to realize ambitious new work,” said Alison Gass, Founding Director of ICA SF. “Gap Inc. has an extraordinary creative legacy in this city, and this partnership brings together artists, institutional expertise and private-sector resources with artistic vision at the center.”
About Gap Inc.
Gap Inc., a purpose-driven house of iconic brands, is the largest specialty apparel company in America. Its Old Navy, Gap, Banana Republic, and Athleta brands offer clothing, accessories, and lifestyle products for men, women, children worldwide through Company-operated and franchise stores and e-commerce sites. Through Encore, its cross-brand membership program, Gap Inc. connects members across its portfolio to rewards, benefits and exclusive experiences. Since 1969, Gap Inc. has created products and experiences that shape culture, while doing right by employees, communities and the planet through its commitment to bridge gaps to create a better world. For more information, please visit www.gapinc.com.
Media Relations Contact:
Press@gap.com