Live Music Society has been making significant strides in supporting small music venues across the country. In 2024, they awarded $1 million in grant funding to 58 venues, and now they are gearing up to open their 3rd Annual Music in Action grant application in January. This grant is designed to help these venues expand their reach, engage with the community, and promote diversity through curated live programming.

Unlock the Potential of Small Music Venues with Live Music Society

Music in Action Grant: A Catalyst for Growth

The Music in Action grant, introduced in 2023, has been a game-changer for small music venues. It allows them to take creative risks and develop their audiences. For example, at The Spot on Kirk in Roanoke, Virginia, venue manager John Pense said, "Thanks to the Music in Action grant, we have widened our reach by addressing significant need in the local Hispanic community. Ten exciting events make up our 'Música y Cultura' series, including music, dancing, art, and comedy from talented local, regional, and touring artists." This shows how the grant can have a real impact on local communities.Another example is the Bossa Tributary Project at the Bossa Bistro in Washington D.C. It brings together culturally connected ensembles to showcase the music of specific cultural spheres, reflecting the rich diversity of the city. These concerts feature talented musicians from around the world, blending global influences and showcasing the vibrant spirit of D.C.'s music scene.

Toolbox Grant: Supporting Practical Needs

In addition to the Music in Action grants, Live Music Society also distributed over $290,000 in Toolbox grant funding to 34 venues last month. This second program, launched in 2023, is designed to support practical needs and enhance the day-to-day experience for artists, fans, and venue staff. It shows their commitment to providing comprehensive support to small music venues.For instance, Rebel Rebel Studio & Lounge in Berea, Kentucky, offers workshops led by industry professionals on essential topics like sound engineering, branding, grant writing, and activism in the arts. Participants also host open mics and curate monthly music nights, which helps them develop their skills and build their careers.

Expanding Reach and Impact

Live Music Society's reach has expanded to include venues in Nevada, Kansas, and Georgia, demonstrating their growing impact across the country. Since its founding in 2020, they have distributed $4.1 million through 210 grants to 180 small music venues, supporting live music spaces, emerging talents, established musicians, and affordable access to music in under-served communities.In 2024, they hosted the first Music in Action Summit, bringing together 31 grantee venues to share knowledge and inspire collaborations. This shows their commitment to strengthening the independent venue ecosystem nationwide. Their partnerships with organizations like NIVA, the House of Songs, and the Americana Music Association also highlight their dedication to fostering creativity and protecting the spaces where musicians can grow.Applications for the next cohort of small music venues to receive grants will open in January 2025, and it will be exciting to see how these venues continue to thrive with the support of Live Music Society.