Protecting, Preserving, Promoting
the ability of Hip Hop culture to help improve society and uplift humanity.
The Hip Hop Institute for Social Innovation is a media, research, and consulting organization that helps institutions, educators, and communities understand and apply Hip Hop culture as a powerful source of knowledge, creativity, and civic problem-solving.
Our purpose
Vision
A future where Hip Hop culture is universally recognized as a catalyst for positive societal change — fostering equitable opportunities and justice for all.
What we do
We help institutions move beyond symbolic engagement with Hip Hop toward meaningful, community-rooted practice — through consulting, research, and public education.
Credibility
Founded by Michael “Manny Faces” Conforti, award-winning journalist and author of Hip Hop Can Save America!, examining Hip Hop’s role in public life, education, and social transformation.
Pillars of focus
Journalism
Reporting and storytelling that documents Hip Hop’s real-world civic value across education, mental health, media, leadership, and social justice.
- Hip Hop Can Save America! (Livestream)
- Hip Hop Can Save America! (Podcast)
- Hip Hop Can Save America! (Book)
Public outreach
Keynotes, workshops, and convenings that help communities and institutions apply Hip Hop-informed thinking to real problems.
- Newsletter & public education
- Keynotes / lectures
- Community Solution Cyphers
Institutional partnerships
We partner with public agencies, school systems, universities, and nonprofit organizations to apply Hip Hop-informed approaches to education, youth engagement, leadership development, and community problem-solving.
We work with
- Cities and public agencies
- School districts, colleges, and universities
- Nonprofit and community-based organizations
- Cultural and educational leaders
Contact us
Support our mission
We believe in Hip Hop’s power to change the world for the better — and we’re building the infrastructure to prove it.
Your support helps us:
- Continue long-standing journalism documenting Hip Hop’s role in justice, equity, and innovation.
- Launch programs and partnerships that create real-world impact — in schools, communities, and beyond.