Swordfight USA

Leading the Future of Historical European Martial Arts

Our Mission

To bring medieval and Renaissance martial traditions to life for diverse audiences across the United States, fostering a deeper understanding of history, culture, and the evolution of combat arts.

Our Vision

To become the leading organization in the United States for HEMA education and events, setting the standard for historical accuracy, inclusivity, and community engagement in historical martial arts.

Swordfight USA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving, promoting, and educating the public about Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA). Our flagship event, SoCal Swordfight, has grown to become the largest HEMA gathering worldwide, bringing together over 1,000 participants annually.

  • Organizational Structure: 501(c)(3) non-profit with 509(a)(2) Public Charity Status
  • Incorporated: Texas, with foreign entity registration in California
  • Headquarters: Houston, Texas
  • DBA: SoCal Swordfight in California

SWORDFIGHT USA

Why Nonprofit Status Matters

Our 501(c)(3) nonprofit structure provides significant advantages that directly benefit the HEMA community:

  • Tax-Deductible Contributions: Donors and sponsors can deduct contributions, making it easier to secure funding for scholarships, educational programs, and event expansion
  • Grant Eligibility: Access to federal, state, and private foundation grants that fund historical research, educational curriculum development, and cultural preservation initiatives
  • Tax Exemptions: Exemption from federal income tax and most state taxes allows us to allocate more resources directly to HEMA programs and community benefits
  • Credibility & Trust: Nonprofit status signals our commitment to community service over profit, building trust with participants, educators, and cultural institutions
  • Reduced Operating Costs: Access to discounted postal rates, venue rates, and nonprofit purchasing programs stretches every dollar further
  • Mission-Driven Focus: Legal structure ensures all revenue is reinvested in HEMA education, accessibility, research, and community growth rather than distributed as profits