Live Music Society awarded $1 million in grant funding to 58 small music venues in 2024, with applications for the next funding round opening in January 2025. The organization supports venues through two main programs: Music in Action and Toolbox grants.

The Music in Action grant program, launched in 2023, helps venues develop audiences, boost community engagement, and promote diversity through creative programming. Success stories include:

• The Spot on Kirk in Roanoke, Virginia created a "Música y Cultura" series targeting the Hispanic community
• Bossa Bistro in Washington D.C. launched the Bossa Tributary Project featuring global musicians
• Rebel Rebel Studio & Lounge in Berea, Kentucky established an emerging artist program with professional workshops

In addition to $710,000 in Music in Action grants, Live Music Society distributed $290,000 in Toolbox grants to 34 venues in 2024, supporting practical operational needs and enhancing experiences for artists, fans, and staff.

Since its 2020 founding, the organization has:

• Distributed $4.1 million through 210 grants
• Supported 180 small music venues across the country
• Expanded to new states including Nevada, Kansas, and Georgia
• Hosted their first Music in Action Summit with 31 grantee venues
• Partnered with NIVA, House of Songs, and the Americana Music Association

The organization continues to strengthen independent venues nationwide while fostering creativity and protecting spaces for musicians to develop their careers.

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