How To Save Independent Venues When You Have No Money To Spare

#SaveOurStages

Independent venues around the country are joining forces to ask for help, and you can play a significant role in making sure they survive the coronavirus pandemic.

Have you heard about NIVA? Otherwise known as the National Independent Venue Association, NIVA brings together more than 800 venues across the country in an attempt to keep their businesses afloat while COVID-19 makes live performances impossible. Independent venues are more vulnerable to permanent shutdowns amid the coronavirus pandemic because they do not have the multi-million dollar backing venues owned by Live Nation or AEG possess. Their independence grants them the ability to take a chance on talent that may not normally get a chance to shine, and they need your help to survive these chaotic times.

NIVA is calling on all fans of live music to write their senators and representatives to demand the government help these organizations stay alive. Visiting the NIVA website will allow you to quickly fill out of a form letter and send it to those in power with just a couple of clicks. It takes only a few moments to complete. Please do your part.

Independent Venues need our help. Do your part to #SaveOurStages

A message from NIVA reads:

National Independent Venue Association (NIVA) is securing financial support to preserve the national ecosystem of independent venues and promoters. These entertainment hubs are critical to their local economies and tax bases as employers, tourism destinations, and revenue generators for neighboring businesses such as restaurants, hotels, and retail. Independent venues exist in every state across the country; they were the first to be closed, they will be the last to open. The economic recovery process will extend past just reopening the front doors, requiring solutions unique to the industry.

The vast majority of musicians rely on independent venues to tour and sustain their careers. Your efforts to keep these businesses going will make an impact on the livelihood of your favorite artists and the artists you’ve yet to discover. Action is needed. Do your part.

James Shotwell