Indie venues help fuel D.C. economy but many still struggle

Independent music venues contributed $86 billion to the U.S. economy in 2024, according to a new, first-of-its-kind study.

Why it matters: The report was produced by the National Independent Venue Association (NIVA) to inform policymakers and music industry stakeholders about the importance of independent venues, after many were pushed to the brink in the pandemic.

By the numbers: Last year in D.C., indie venues like The Anthem, 9:30 Club, and Black Cat played to the tune of:

• $1.4 billion in economic output
• $914.4 million in GDP

Plus, they supported 7,542 jobs and $574.9 million in wages.

Yes, but: The findings weren't all cause for a standing ovation. In 2024, only 40% of the indie stages surveyed identified themselves as profitable.

• That's lower than the national average: 64%.

The big picture: It's a gritty time for indies. NIVA categorizes independent venues and music festivals as those not owned by a multinational corporation or a publicly traded company.

• The live music industry is dominated by corporate giants like Live Nation and AEG, while indies in major cities like D.C. are also facing escalating real estate costs and inflation.

What's next: NIVA wants policymakers to use the data as motivation to back policies that preserve music venues. The report cites a new Maryland law that caps ticket resale prices.

• The anti-scalping law makes it illegal for resale sites like StubHub or VividSeats to charge junk fees, and bans the sale of "speculative tickets" — helping more revenue go to venues and artists, not third parties.