NIVA Launches ‘State of Live’ Survey to Assess Economic Impact of Independent Live Music Sector

The National Independent Venue Association (NIVA) is set to collect data on the economic impact of the independent live sector with the launch of its State of Live survey, the organization announced Tuesday (Jan. 7). The initiative will seek to capture the economic contributions and operational challenges of independent venues, promoters, performing arts centers and festivals across the United States.

The survey opened Tuesday and will remain open through Feb. 18. NIVA is seeking participation from both for-profit and non-profit entities within the independent live entertainment community, regardless of their size, tax status or location.

“Independent stages are the heartbeats of our communities. They’re where culture is born, connections are made, and memories are created,” said NIVA executive director Stephen Parker in a statement. “The State of Live study will quantify the economic and cultural value of these spaces, ensuring they get the recognition and support they need and deserve.”

NIVA is asking all live spaces or festivals to contribute to collecting data that will inform a national report and 50 state-by-state reports, all scheduled for release on June 23. The reports are expected to provide “invaluable insights to strengthen advocacy efforts and influence public opinion in support of this vital sector,” according to NIVA.

The State of Live will quantify the independent live sector’s contributions to local and national economies with indicators including the total value of the live sector, jobs created, number of show attendees, tax revenue generated and the ripple effect of live stages on communities. It will slo highlight operational challenges that threaten the sector’s sustainability and empower policymakers and stakeholders with concrete data to advocate for support.

For more information about the survey and how to participate, go here.

NIVA was instrumental in the passing of the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant pandemic relief program, which provided $16.25 billion for independent venues hit hard by the COVID-19 lockdowns.